Armstrong back on favorite stage

By Julien Pretot

MONACO (Reuters) - Lance Armstrong returned to his favorite stage four years after winning a record seventh consecutive Tour de France and set a respectable time in the opening time trial on Saturday.

The 18th rider to set off in Monaco, Armstrong clocked 20 minutes 12 seconds for the 15.5-km course to briefly top the standings. The American hinted afterwards that he had not expected a winning start to the race.

"We will see where the other ones are but I did not have big illusions," the 37-year-old told reporters.

"I was a bit nervous but it is logical. I''m just happy to be here even if we don''t win today because there are a lot of other things I could be doing right now.

"It is a difficult course for sure but I think it is difficult for everybody. It is very technical, it is hard to find a rhythm but that''s logical after years away," Armstrong added.

"What a beautiful race. It was fun. I felt pretty good, overall, I feel good. I was a little bit all over the place."

After a 20-minute session on a roller with a Livestrong jersey on his shoulders, came the moment the cycling media and fans had been waiting for and Armstrong went to the start, where he received a warm welcome from the crowd.

Armstrong, who returned to racing in January after 3 1/2 years in retirement made a cautious start but progressively found his rhythm.

He struggled a bit in the descent of the Cote de Beausoleil at some 90 kph, crossing the finish line in a muggy weather.

Defending champion Carlos Sastre was due to be the last man out, starting at 11:08 a.m. EDT with fellow Spaniard and hot favorite Alberto Contador scheduled three minutes earlier.

French meteorological services said rain, with a high risk of storm, was expected around 12 p.m. EDT.

(Editing by Alison Wildey)