The Duchess of Cambridge was given the honor of cutting the official start ribbon at Harewood house just outside Leeds before reigning champion Chris Froome and the rest of the challengers set off on the 190.5 km opening stage around Yorkshire. The three royal guests spoke to several riders at the ceremony, including Froome, British sprint king Mark Cavendish, former Tour winner Alberto Contador and Andy Schleck. as well as the two other Brits Geraint Thomas and Simon Yates.