The lack of the encouragement to attempt such monumental efforts, and the defeatist attitude which you describe is the exact reason why sporting events, particularly cycling GTs are becoming increasingly dull.
I don’t know what I want, I never do, the grass is always greener isn’t it....
The last stage thing just doesn’t make sense to me:
It’s like having the last lap of a Grand Prix a neutralised parade because you crossed the line first on the previous lap; what’s the point in it?!
The lack of the encouragement to attempt such monumental efforts, and the defeatist attitude which you describe is the exact reason why sporting events, particularly cycling GTs are becoming increasingly dull.