The tragic passing of Wouter Weylandt was on everyone's mind at this morning's start in Genova, and no more so than the riders themselves. Be they team-mates, friends or simply working companions, everyone was in a sombre, reflective mood. They and the race organisers paid a fitting tribute, holding several minutes of respectiful silence, applauding his memory, and then remaining quiet once again when his Leopard Trek team rolled to the front. A band played a slow tune, causing emotions to well up further, then the riders moved off for a long, slow day in the saddle.
Below are some images from what was a sad day at the Giro d'Italia, but one which also showed a real display of rider solidarity and support.