Southam unsure of climbing form

British rider Tom Southam told Cyclingnews before the start of the Tour of Britain that his form was bad after a series of crashes earlier this season. However, the Barloworld rider found himself with good legs on stage one, getting into the crucial move and ending the day fifth overall courtesy of some time bonuses taken in the sprints. He started today's stage 8th overall, 17 seconds behind race leader Nick Nuyens.

Southam wasn't sure what to expect. "I don't know how my form really is, we will see after today. So far, the race hasn't been really hard so it is hard to tell. I am not sure what my climbing will be like, that is what I am worried about. I am fine on the flat but not sure how I will be on the hills today.

"My form is definitely getting better for the worlds, though. I have got some good races after this one and then I have got the worlds. Obviously Roger [Hammond] has got strong form so that is good for us. I'd like to get a decent end to the season because it has been a sh*t year so far, with accidents and whatnot."