Yes, the TDF is in full swing and I tune in every morning to watch it “live” through Versus.com. First, I have to say that this is the first TDF in 4 or 5 years that hasn’t been riddled with doping allegations and disqualifications…that’s refreshing. This year’s race is the big comeback of Lance on team Astana. I watched stage 15 yesterday and was blown away by Alberto Contador’s stomp up that mountain to gain a 1:37 lead that got him the ‘mellow johnny’. If Contador continues with that kind of energy, he’ll be this year’s GC. I think Lance will have to fight to get 2nd place. Disappointing a little to some of us Armstrong fans that would like to see him ride into yellow one more time, but the reality is, he’s 37 and has been away from the high level competition mindset for 3 + years. Just placing in the top 5 is one hell of an achievement.
The fact that he came into the race not as the “main man” for Astana was a sign that he isn’t the invincible Lance we knew years ago. Maybe that’s a good thing. One thing I do know, in regards to the sport, he has a plan. This year it may not necessarily be about coming in first. I think his return has to do with something more personal. Even though he is on the team, he’s not drawing a paycheck from Astana.
Throughout this year’s race he’s been sporting a relaxed grin and seems to loving where he’s at. It wouldn’t surprise me to see him starting his own team next year.
His biggest accomplishments off the bike have been the war he’s raged against cancer the past three years and he has publicized that this was his motivation for coming out of retirement.
All that aside, Contador had better be on his A-game, because it won’t be a gift. There are 5 more stages to go.
Regardless of the outcome he will always be an icon and a presence to the sport. He represents hope and inspiration for people who are fighting cancer.
“Everyday is a gift.”
Give ‘em hell man!
2 Comments
July 21, 2009 at 8:46 pm
When are you going to start riding your bike again?
July 21, 2009 at 9:05 pm
Riding is happening hit and miss. Rode 25 miles in Ketchum. More of that once the math exams get done.