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Comments - Two weeks in: Some thoughts about the Giro
May 29, 2009
I always enjoy your reading and find it usually free of errors but I do have to correct your Freudian slip. After seeing the "assault" on the TV you instantly performed a 360, seems like you rather enjoyed the show! haha Reminds me of the quote by Gary Payton, I believe, who said after being drafted that he was going to turn his team around 360 degrees. All in good fun.
- NK, Cities, MN
May 29, 2009
even more discussion about the contador/armstrong thing can be found here:
http://velocitynation.com/content/features/2009/berto-argument
I have to say, if I were Contador and Armstrong suddenly became the team owner (and thus, in a way my boss), I would try to find a way out of my contract...and perhaps Lance would like it that way. Still, I doubt Lance will race more than another year. With that, the team (whatever it becomes) will have given up a huge, young, future (and current) star for the sake of Lance having this tour. Big mistake no? All speculation clearly, but if that's how it plays out...that would be insane.
- sleeper, Pittsburgh, PA
May 29, 2009
Johnny from Twitterville, At the risk of sounding like a smart ass, your post was 212 characters!
- Rick , Literalville
May 29, 2009
If what you want to communicate can be condensed to <140 characters, does the world really need to hear it?
I counter with:
If what you want to communicate CANNOT be condensed to <140 characters, does the world really need to hear it?
- Johnny, Twitterville
May 28, 2009
More likely that the OP files around Conta are 'unexpectedly' opened a week before the start and he's not allowed to ride the Tour....Remember, don't get in the way of LA and Johan's master plan - ride for Lance, and nothing happens to you, leave the team or ride for yourself... look out.... Don't be needing a tifoil hat to see some of these things....
- Roadent, Toronto
May 28, 2009
sleeper, that doesnt sound too far fetched
- am, canada
May 28, 2009
oh, another thought regarding Contador and July...but this one is way out there and borders on stupid conspiracy theory...so don't pay much attention to it. Astana as a team ends, Lance picks up the ownership (through livestrong, nike whatever) and releases Contador. This is completely made up on my part, and would never happen...but I thought I'd mention it.
- sleeper, Pittsburgh, PA
May 28, 2009
I would imagine that the statement about Contador and July is merely pointing out that the team will be divided, like La Vie Claire was (Hinault/lemond). It would be like two teams, and Contador will not be a real teamate. Leipheimer will work for Lance, not Contador. This may seem odd, but Hampsten said this is the way La Vie Claire worked, with the french all working for Hinault. great interview about it here ( http://nyvelocity.com/content/interviews/2009/andy-hampsten-interview )
- sleeper, Pittsburgh, PA
May 27, 2009
I LOVE how a few weeks ago you mentioned how embarassing it is for all parties envolved when you receive an email from a silly cycling related email address, and then only a few comments down, on this very post, you get ride sugestions from someone with a rather unfortunate email address. Priceless.
- Brooks , Madison
May 27, 2009
All you haters are jealous I'll be at the Philly race June 7th. I'll be on Lemon Hill with the cold Lagers. Time to give love to the workers, enough Lance, Levi and Alberto. Racing US style baby!! Woot Woot!!
- Hung Low, Philly
May 26, 2009
Probably Paul Willerton in the Zed kit.
- Mark, Altanta, GA
May 26, 2009
I think Cancellara's quote was taken a bit out of context. Did the course look more like a typical modern Grand Tour TT or a beautiful afternoon club ride? The course was the latter and he specializes in the former. Either way, there's no way he finishes the race.
DiLuca is nothing less than a total crook and should be sitting next to his buddy Ivan Stevic, not riding this race.
Same question with Pellizotti. I imagine the Liqui team dinner was a bit tense that night.
- Joe, portland
May 26, 2009
for all those who are wasting words hating or loving lance, i am pretty sure that that last paragraph was written so that the boys at CC could sit back, pop some popcorn, and enjoy the show ;)
- Phil, Montreal
May 26, 2009
""did lance pay you to through in that paragraph? fuck armstrong how many young riders deserve a chance and he is hording up alot of space!!! die strong lance
- scott gabe, san diego ca""
Maybe you should spend some time learning to spell instead of just hating.
- spell check, your town
May 26, 2009
"Based on evidence, on history, and on logic he (Lance) will win the 2009 Tour de France" - WOW - that is a statement - with Contador being 12 years younger then Lance and having taking all this time to recon most of the TdF stages, as a 3 time Grand Tour winner would he not have the edge? For Giro coverage - try www.universalsports.com - it is not HD but the live feed with commentary is quite entertaining and the post a replay on demand of each stage in teh after EST.
- Fraser, Toronto
May 26, 2009
What is the speculatiuo on where Contador will be in July? Someone, please offer a response
- Coolshade, New Jersey
May 26, 2009
I ask the first two to comment here, who has done more to inspire cycling around the world than Lance Armstrong? Most often, those who cannot stand winners are because they themselves are not. Just consider his performance this year as a support rider. No ego, no need to control, only to support his teamleader. He imbodies the beauty of cycling, science, and intelligence rolled into one, and like it or not, that is what this sport is about, especially the Grand Tours. If the goal is to win the Tour de France, then only a fool would try to do it in way that would please people like the French, or say, you. I suppose you would prefer more performances like Ricco's or Shumachers, doped to the gills, but man could they fly. I too believe Lance is going to win this year's TdF, and when he does, I will think back to your comments here, and smile.
- Ed, Franklin, KY
May 26, 2009
Nice blog. Not sure I enjoy the foreign language when I can only understand rider names. I am grateful for the UTV coverage. It is the nail in the coffin for my satelite TV subscription....I believe their days are numbered. And shame on CyclingTV....the overpriced service which makes it impossible to cancel and the choppiness of the feed was like watching 1960s black and white TV compared to the likes of UTV live feed. Ditto to Versus. But why do I think UTV is just free....for now?
Why do people hate Lance? Don't have to like him, but the hate indicates real personal problems. Perhaps childhood issues. To me he is a warrior, a champion and real cycling pro. I don't worship the guy but he deserves credit. And even with an antagonistic french press they have yet to bust him on drugs. I think all the American riders are top class.
- Tracy, Plano, TX
May 26, 2009
While I love the Garm*n truth, how about some Lance truth? Its not a secret he is a d*ck. Sure he did wonders for the sport, like Lemond before him he moved tons of product. But I hate that he made the Tour stale and boring. Oh yes the look was nice, but please. I wish he would stay retired so we could see how weak Levi is.
- Hung Low, Philly
May 26, 2009
No Bob Roll! Ever. Ever!
- Jim, Troy,N.Y.
May 26, 2009
Great tidbits and insights. Regarding coverage of the Giro on NBC/Universal, they're giving it the old college try. We could use more gap times and distance covered/to-go (and maybe some Bobke-like personality), but I'll take it--free, no less (damn you, cycling.tv!).
- Mat, Fairfield, CT
May 26, 2009
did lance pay you to through in that paragraph? fuck armstrong how many young riders deserve a chance and he is hording up alot of space!!! die strong lance
- scott gabe, san diego ca
May 25, 2009
RE: Cervelo in stage 15, the team race report admitted their error. Sastre thought that Basso's attack was more dangerous than it turned out to be. By the time Pauwels, dropped back from the break, his help was no longer needed. As for Garmin, Dan Martin's result at Catalunya was impressive. 2nd overall, 15" behind a seriously pissed-off Valverde.
No matter who Contador is riding for come July, he'll win the Tour.
- josh, oakland, ca
May 25, 2009
I'd rather see a Sastre repeat than a LA comeback. Annoying. Overhyped. Boring.
- Jay, Needham
May 25, 2009
I live in Breck, I'll be happy to give you ride info. soiledchamoisatgmaildotcom
- Tim Faia, Breckenridge
May 25, 2009
so Cervelo made a poor choice yesterday, but boy did Carlos ever make up for that mistake today with one classy ride. he looked deader than a door nail on the base of the final climb but pulled one out in style.
don't know how he will protect his podium spot with Pelli and Basso being better TT riders, but watching him today reminded me of why I appreciated his ride in the TDF so much last year.
We shouldn't rag on Van Poppel too much, they have a had a stellar year thus far fromwhat most observers thought would be very little to work with.
and YES, Lance will rock it in July someway or somehow
- Michael, Vancouver, BC
May 25, 2009
Can someone explain why Brendan maintains Contador won't be Armstrong's team mate in July?
- Leonard/Santa Barbara, Leo/Santa Barbara
May 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to Steve Larsen who at the age of 39 suddenly died while running, leaving 5 children and his wife behind. I remember back in 1988 when I raced against Steve while he was riding under Greg Lemond w/ Team PDM. I was a junior rider down in San Diego and Steve came out and almost lapped the field during a tough junior road race. (Willows Road Race). He left an impression on me 20 years ago, and now. The later thinking of my own mortality with my own family. God Bless you Steve and your family! YOU WILL BE MISSED
- Bill, NOR CAL
May 25, 2009
I think it is the marketing team at Garmin that needs the major upheaving. All they do is tout their TTrialists; Milliar, Wiggens, Danielson and these guys don't produce. Instead Masskant, Hejsedal and Farrar ride balls out in the races that make the average cyclist want to get out and hammer intervals in the rain. The irony is that of whole team Farrar is one knocking on the door of a serious prologue. MM and RH are bound to get a cool classic one day - and probably a lot sooner if you could trade Millar's salary for a bunch of unheard of young Dutch of Belgian riders who can ride in crosswinds.
- adam , hamilton
May 25, 2009
I think it is the marketing team at Garmin that needs the major upheaving. All they do is tout their TTrialists; Milliar, Wiggens, Danielson and these guys don't produce. Instead Masskant, Hejsedal and Farrar ride balls out in the races that make the average cyclist want to get out and hammer intervals in the rain. The irony is that of whole team Farrar is one knocking on the door of a serious prologue. MM and RH are bound to get a cool classic one day - and probably a lot sooner if you could trade Millar's salary for a bunch of unheard of young Dutch of Belgian riders who can ride in crosswinds.
- adam , hamilton
May 25, 2009
I use Bikely to search by town when I am out of town and looking for a cycling route. I can attest Breckenridge to Vail is awesome with a killer climb up Vail Pass. Check link for a few routes in the area.
http://www.bikely.com/listpaths/srchkey/Breckenridge%2C+CO
- Randy, Grapevine
May 24, 2009
The main thing going to Garmin... Dan Martin.
- Andy , Belmont, Ma
May 24, 2009
Another great entry.
- Craig, Washington
May 24, 2009
agree with the lance prediction. contador controversy has been pretty silent as well. gawd, the french media will be in such a tizzy. despite his short comings, GO LANCE.
- sam, little rock
May 24, 2009
when in Breck (there are only MTB loops) you should ride north on the highway (CO 9). When you reach Frisco keep going to silverthorne
when in silverthorne have a car pick you up near the I-70 exit.
get in the car.
take I 70 east.
drive approximately 664 mile east to Kansas City.
take 540 south to 40 and little rock.
thats the best ride there is in breck.
- Mike Haverford, Breckenridge, co
May 24, 2009
Where will Contador be in July?
- johan, bruyneel
May 24, 2009
Cav is a beast...I swear I thought I saw lightening shoot out of his arse as he crossed the line on Stage 13. All that Cancellara did was reveal himself to be a pussy. Sorry, no other way to put it. If you are a true TT monster-- as everyone figures him to be-- then you shut your pie hole and ride the goddamn course. Frankly, as a fan, I'd love to see more of those cyclo-tourist TTs. That 37 year old "simmering" guy will be in ripping form after the Giro. Doubters and naysayers had better starting whetting their appetites for crow (no, not Sheryl).
- PawleeWalnutz, NYC
May 24, 2009
as much as i sued to hate you guys for bashing garmin becasue they have a lot of canadian riders, i am starting to agree with you guys. WTF is up with them , they are supposed to have top tier riders, yet all they can do is ride as if its a cyclo event.
maybe cycling is still as doped as before and garmin are the only clean guys, but come-on JV, get the fire lit beneth their asses.
or at least bring the A team to a grand tour and not send the A team to chase valverde in catalunya.
- am, van
May 24, 2009
Wouldn't it be a 180 if you turned around and exited, post haste?
- shorleocal, candania
May 24, 2009
Ack, forgot to ask what CC thinks of CTT's tactics in S15. Was Sastre that exposed? Was it just to have a wheels on hand in case of a mechanical? Regardless, I would have put my chips down on a stage victory, Sastre would have come out fine, I suspect. Not a good day for an otherwise rather flawless CTT.
- M, B
May 24, 2009
Nice, as always. DZ is spot on, but I understand that riders have their limit; the idea is to be able to show up tomorrow. // Brash LA prediction (but perhaps not). I don't think Astana has the legs LA is accustomed to winning with, if the Giro is any indication. LL alone so often, and all. But, then, maybe they're saving it for July. // The dark side of me loves how CC sheds light on JV, but I also welcome the painful squeals of condemnation from Garm*n fans, who will surely voice more disapproval, simply for the comedic value. I heard that besides the Millar non-start, Farrar has pulled. If true, and G's fortunes don't improve in their "season opener" JV will spend the rest of the year scrubbing at egg. Enjoy.
- Matthew, Boulder
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