The Tour

[NRG Woman]

I don't know how many of you follow the Tour de France but it started today. I am always so inspired and in awe of these athletes. I watched part of today's ride while riding my own bike. I am hampered quite a bit by a foot injury, but I couldn't help riding for just a short while with these amazing men. Most of my July is spent watching this race. Any other Tour fans out there??

Shayne

 

[Aquajock]

Can't say that I'm a real follower or fan, but I am always amazed at the athleticism of Tour cyclists.

Is Lance Armstrong competing this year? I read his book "It's Not About The Bike", about his early years, his bout with testicular cancer and his roaring comeback; it has so much to say about perseverance that I re-read it at least once a year.

A-Jock

 

[NRG Woman]

Yes, Lance is back, I find that just astounding. I also think it is so interesting that in the races leading up to the Tour he has been acting as a domestique to other racers. A domestique does all of the hard work to get the team favorite to the finish line, then lets the other guy win. He has been acting as a domestique to many of the men that helped him win over the years. I just can't imagine any football or basketball player that had achieved such fame in their sport playing such a role just to be back in the game. It gives me such respect for Lance.

 

[Tamrahan]

Lance is back? I had no idea.

 

[caseysmomgo]

I love following the Tour de France and I totally forgot it started, so thanks for the post, Shayne. I'm especially anxious to watch it this year now that Lance is back. I loved his book also, and A-Jock, you've inspired me to get it out and read it again!

I'm now inspired to pump up my tires and go for a ride tomorrow!

 

[NancyAZ]

Lance is back? I had no idea.

Not only is he back, but he is riding in the Tour after just recently breaking a collarbone in a crash. He's an amazing athlete.

I have today's replay taping to watch later, as it's on way too early for me here in the mornings (and I forgot to tape it this morning). We try to watch it every day. It will be interesting to see how the team handles Lance and Contador and whether Lance is strong enough to win or will continue to serve as a domestique. I read in the paper that it was a tough decision for Bruyneel(sp) as to whether to give the starting yellow jersey to Contador or Armstrong, but he had selected contador because his wins have been more recent.

 

[jbliff]

I've been following the Tour for the last 6 years. I always reserve the time to watch it live if at all possible. I totally love it, and I'm glad Lance is back. I don't think Lance will be able to win (I'm picking Contador), but I hope he can be on the podium at the end.