In a great start for the newly named Team Columbia, Kim Kirchen took fifth place today in the first stage of the Tour de France.

Making his move with 600 meters to go in the uphill finish to Plumelec, Kirchen caught Schumacher with 400 meters to go and proceded to ride solo toward the finish line. In a dramatic stage finish however, he was caught by Alejandro Valverde who took the win and the first yellow jersey of Tour.

"The guys did everything we planned today," said Columbia Team Director Rolf Aldag. "In the last five kilometers of the race they gave everything and did a perfect job to lead out Kirchen for the final uphill climb."

"What is really great for us is that Kim was right up there and really confident and ready to give it a go today," Aldag added. "The attitude and motivation is great in the team and that's a good sign for the rest of the Tour."

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