After two consecutive victories, Mark Cavendish fell back, as expected, as the Tour de France headed into the Alps.
He finished 161st on stage seven, won by Frenchman Sylvain Chavanel who reclaimed the overall lead and the yellow jersey from Swiss rider Fabian Cancellara as a result.
The big hitters are expected to begin their serious challenge during Sunday's 189km eighth stage.
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Dunlop and Hickman also among strong field for this year's meeting
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John McGuinness MBE at forefront of the field
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It will also be first race of No Rest For The Wicked series
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