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Decoding the jerseys
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
Part of the color of a bike race comes from the cyclists' garish uniforms. Team sponsors try to outdo each other to catch attention as the riders pass spectators, sometimes at more than 30 mph. The colors and sponsors can seem a blur. But the race organizers and sponsors add a few more jerseys, designated for race leaders, to separate them from the pack. SPRINT LEADER Riders earn points in the sprint competition in two ways. First, the organizers establish sprint points along the course, one to four each day, and the first three riders to cross the line earn points. Second, riders earn points by finishing among the stage leaders. The rider who has accumulated the most points overall is awarded a green jersey at the end of each stage. Sponsor: Edward Jones King of the Mountains OK, so Missouri doesn't have an epic climb, such as Alpe d'Huez or Mont Ventoux in France, or even the Brasstown Bald in Georgia. The state has plenty of hills, though, and the highest have been designated as King of the Mountain climbs. The first riders over each designated climb will earn mountain points, and the rider who has accumulated the most points overall will earn a King of the Mountain, or KOM, jersey after each stage. Sponsor: Michelob Ultra Best young rider This jersey, adorned with the Build-A-Bear logo, will be worn by the cyclist age 25 or younger with the lowest accumulated overall time. The jersey is a tip-off to the fans of a star of the future. Sponsor: Build-A-Bear Workshops Most aggressive rider This jersey is the only one awarded on a subjective basis. And, believe it or not, race officials share the judging with the media. The jersey can be awarded for courage or panache. It can go to the rider who launches the most attacks, a rider who succeeds on a breakaway or a rider who assists teammates to a victory. Even cyclists who have crashed but carried on, bloodied and bruised, can win the jersey. Sponsor: Drury Inns
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