The Tour
by Mike on Jul.04, 2006, under Cycling
There were many who thought the Tour would only be a shadow of itself with the DQ of Ullrich, Basso, Mancebo, Vino, etc. I disagree. I think it has made for a wide-open event with significantly more riders having opportunities for glory.
There is talk of an All-American podium with George, Levi and Floyd (from more than just the American-homer Bob Roll). Wouldn’t that really chap the French?? The potential for that only increased today with the unfortunate injury to Valverde on the run-in to Valkenberg. Last year it was the knee and this year the shoulder – you have to feel sorry for Alejandro. But he is young and very strong so I would not count him out in future years.
It is going to be an interesting race, and if booting those guys was necessary to clean-up our sport – so be it. I don’t think I will notice if the average speed is 40 kph instead of 42. There will always be a cloud hanging over cycling until the sport is rid of the cheats.
I hope Ullrich, Basso, et al were not cheating but it does not look good for them. I’ll be watching closely to see how it turns out – both the race and the off the road drama.
