McEwen wins first stage of Tour

Cycling : Robbie McEwen of Australia produced a thrilling finish to win today's first stage proper of the Tour de France.

McEwen, 35, looked to be out of contention when he had to stop for repairs after a crash as the race approached Canterbury towards the end of the 203km stage from London.

But he produced a blistering sprint to take the spoils from Norway's Thor Hushovd and Tom Boonen of Belgium.

Switzerland's Fabian Cancellara retained the race leader's yellow jersey although Britain's David Millar moved up to third overall after a stage in which he made much of the running.

© 2007 The Irish Times