Geraint Thomas (Team Sky) – defies pelvis injury at the Tour de France

Olympic team pursuit champion Geraint Thomas returned to the road for the 2013 season and enjoyed an immediate return to form by earning a stage victory and topping the points classification at the Tour Down Under. Having already impressed at the Tour de France in the past, wearing the white jersey for a time in both 2010 and 2011, ‘G’ was expected to be a key domestique for Chris Froome in the 100th edition of cycling’s greatest race this year – particularly after a strong support ride at the Criterium du Dauphine.

Nobody however could have predicted how events unfolded, as the Welshman was a victim of the chaotic end to stage one, crashing heavily and suffering a hairline fracture to his pelvis. He struggled again the following day, finishing in the grupetto, prompting team boss Sir Dave Brailsford to question whether Thomas could continue. But the double Olympic gold medallist rode himself into Tour de France legend by defying his injury – not least in the team time trial just three days after his crash.

Despite not being expected to play much of a part in the race, Thomas pulled a huge shift on the front of the Sky train to haul his team-mates into contention for the stage win before being dropped on the final stretch. His effort’s ensured Sky finished third – just three seconds off the pace – and the Welshman went on to finish the Tour, performing a vital support role as Froome went on to win the yellow jersey.