TdF Stage 9 (Spoiler)

[Kalidurga]

Due to a family emergency in Florida, I haven't been able to watch much of the Tour over the last few days (Thank goodness for Velonews and Schmalz!). I'm still on the edge of my seat, though, from reading about everything that's happened since they hit the mountains. I did catch, though, the footage of David Arroyo climbing out of the bushes after he and Michael Rogers crashed- Funny, scary, and admirable all at once!

Yay for Razzy! The more I read about Michael Rasmussen, the more interesting he becomes. The fact that he's a former mtb'er reminds me of Floyd, and his tactic of blowing everyone off for solo mountain climbs is amazing. He's also unexpectedly funny. His response to being called one of the "men in black" for training out of team kit was a good one: Rasmussen promises cycling world can 'trust me'

And my heart goes out to Vino. The photos at Velonews showing him in tears after today's stage were terrible, especially when you read this article at Cyclingnews.com: Kazahkstan: Riding on Vinokourov's shoulders. Nothing like a little pressure from back home

Sad, too, the toll being taken on teams like T-Mobile (who has, what, four rider's out now?) and on the Aussie contingent. I was sorry to hear that Robbie McE is out, but he was tough enough to finish the stage rather than abandoning. Boonen and Thor must now be breathing easier about that last sprint in Paris. Easier to SMASH without having to worry about Robbie popping out of your jersey pocket at the last moment

[Velobambina]

I worked at home today, and after getting in a nice, long ride this morning, I caught the last hour or so of the live coverage. I agree w/you about poor Vino. If there were a jersey for courage/determination, he'd get it hands down. I hold out hope that as he gets stronger, he'll surprise everyone and get back in the running.

I heard Levi's comments about the group he was in during the final KMs and the lack of effort/cooperation.

This year's tour is interesting, for certain! BTW, I love that French president! He showed respect by staying off the podium. Recently, I read a story in the Post about how the French want him to stop jogging because it's "undignified." LOL.

[bikerHen]

I'm really sad to see McEwen out. Watching the sprints just won't be the same without him popping out at the last second. bikerHen

[Trekhawk]

I'm sad about Robbie but my heart really goes out to Stuart O'Grady who may be out for the rest of the year with his injuries.

http://abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/07/17/1980380.htm

[bikerHen]

I'm sad about Robbie but my heart really goes out to Stuart O'Grady who may be out for the rest of the year with his injuries.

http://abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/07/17/1980380.htm

Wow I didn't know his injuries were so bad! That really is sad. The first week was really a tough one for so many riders. bikerHen

[Kano]

I heard that Robbie was out, but don't remember what the heck happened?

And Levi -- Phil was going on and on today about how happy he had to be that those other two guys were out in front, like that was going to get him the yellow or something. I didn't get it????

And -- Rasmussen's ride was pretty cool -- followed beautifully on the heels of Linus' GGGG.... having a similar delightful ride the day before, and now today, that other kid with the unpronounceable untypable name (just ask Phil!)

Linus looked like he was struggling the day after his big ride, today he looked happier, but still kinda vanished into the pack by the end.

These kids -- they jus look so surprised and delighted with themselves when they take the day!

Karen in Boise

[Zen]

This is one day I missed watching.
I am still hoping beyond hope that Vino wears yellow in Paris but, well....

The best part of the tour (for me) so far has been Borat in a thong.
Go back to this story and click the small pic to enlarge it. You can see Borat's biker tan and the two guys at the front of the pack grinning.