Paris-Nice organizers shortened Monday's stage 1 due to heavy rain and wind, but the result was one of the most exciting days in years. When the race hit the crosswinds, echelons formed and some favorites risked getting knocked out of contention. In the end, most of them caught back on to the front group and even race leader Thor Hushovd, who had been dropped on the days only climb, caught the front group and finished third to retain his yellow jersey.

Graham Watson captured the stage and shared his gallery with VeloNews readers.