Ok, so maybe I'll be eating crow concerning Lance by the end of the TDF. Team Astana has Lance in second place, he missed out wearing the yellow jersey by the slimmest of margins and may just take over for Cancellara by stage 5. So can Lance win this thing?
Paul Sherwen, among others, seem to think Lance will "own" the yellow jersey after Stage 5. Besides, Cancellera can't climb.
The tough part will be whether he can hold onto it after the mountains, especially if Contador is feeling fit.
Old Guys Rule!!
First, I'm not a cyclist and generally watch just a few stages. Every year it appears multiple cyclists test positive for something. Are these cyclists idiots? Do they honestly think they can avoid being caught, or taking the drugs is their only chance for possible success? Do these cyclists, except for Lance, and except for Lance outside of France, have any credibility in Europe, or do the fans just don't give a shit. It appears this sport is tested more than even MLB.
Yes, they are just as stupid as some ballplayers who have recently tested positive for drugs even though they now know they are being tested.
Each year the Cycling Federations get tougher with more improved and more frequent testing and each year there is a cheater or two who, unfortunately, doesn't think he will be caught. A combo of better testing procedures and/or more idiotic riders?
Maybe Manny Ramirez should have taken up cycling during his suspension from MLB!
I'll be surprised if Armstrong wins the Tour de France again. I'd like to see it happen, and while I don't expect it, if he does manage to win, he ought to retire IMMEDIATELY!