TDF Discussion - here be spoilers

[Aggie_Ama]

This is the first TDF in a very long time that has not been marred by performance-enhancing drugs. Let's hope it stays that way.

(taking bets on when it starts...)

The Alps were the back this year, I unfortunately think they will come but not in the middle of the race like last year.

[chutch]

Well, that's not the way cycling is, it's quite common to divide work and victory between the riders - and this time they rewarded Fränk Schleck with the stage victory as a way of showing gratitude for his having hauled them up that mountain. It's a fair deal, isn't it?

Oh yeah, I totally understand WHY they did it and how it works in the grand scheme of things. I just don't like it. My personal opinion (and as a spectator who has no vested interest other than being entertained) is that once you get to the finish, you race to the line...no gifts. But, I fully understand that's just not how it works anymore.

[Trigress]

I agree with you generally, I'm all for combative racing, but when it comes to rewarding the workers by giving them the victory I quite like it, there's something so gentlemanly about it, so wonderfully fair!

[arielmoon]

Oh yeah, I totally understand WHY they did it and how it works in the grand scheme of things. I just don't like it. My personal opinion (and as a spectator who has no vested interest other than being entertained) is that once you get to the finish, you race to the line...no gifts. But, I fully understand that's just not how it works anymore.

Well apparently in cycling there is a kind of gifting or else Hincape and Colombia would not have been so upset that he was denied the yellow jersey. Maybe like the rule where no one attacks while there is a nature break happening.

*shrugs*

[papaver]

Very exciting final today. A surprising win too.

[Kalidurga]

Hmmmm... Here's hoping this is only a rumor: http://www.velonews.com/article/95824

[tulip]

Hmmmm... Here's hoping this is only a rumor: http://www.velonews.com/article/95824

Why do you hope it's only a rumor? Sounds very reasonable.

[Kalidurga]

Purely because of my own personal bias against Contador which, like pretty much any other opinion here, is based only on what I've read in the press and seen in race coverage. The guy's shown he's a powerful rider, but I have trouble imagining him as a good fit for that team. "Otre preguntas" is not standard Garmin operating procedure.

But who knows? Either it is only a rumor or, if it's fact, we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

[Cataboo]

You guys have me reading these articles now...

[Kalidurga]

You guys have me reading these articles now...

Ha ha, sucked you in!

[Zen]

I hope it's true, it would make for a very interesting race season.

[Aggie_Ama]

Purely because of my own personal bias against Contador which, like pretty much any other opinion here, is based only on what I've read in the press and seen in race coverage. The guy's shown he's a powerful rider, but I have trouble imagining him as a good fit for that team. "Otre preguntas" is not standard Garmin operating procedure.

But who knows? Either it is only a rumor or, if it's fact, we'll just have to wait and see what happens.

I hope it is a rumor because I really don't know what it is but I don't like Contador. I didn't when he won the first time but I can't figure out why. He is a fanatastic rider but he has been dogged by doping rumors more than once, I don't think he is a fit for the boys in Argyle. Maybe it is a cultural difference but his evasive nature and self-serving riding style isn't the type of attitude Garmin built the last couple years.

[BabyBlueNTulsa]

Let me just jump right into the frey here... I don't think ANY team is big enough for Alberto's ego.

Sure he's a great rider.. very strong (no matter where it comes from - heart or whatever).. I think he's a drain on any team's spirit due to his self-serving attitude. He doesn't ride very smart...and sure doesn't look like he makes many friends - - even in his own team.

Without Bruneyeell (sp), I wonder how well he'll do.

[papaver]

I guess you haven't seen today's ride. But Contador was the perfect teammate for Armstrong.

and where would Armstrong be without Bruyneel? Would he have won seven TDF's, I don't think so. And Armstrong knows that all too well. Bruyneel is the best tactitian out there.

[BabyBlueNTulsa]

I have seen it.. watched it live. The fact he didn't ride away with the stage today does not take away (for me) what he's done the last 3weeks.

He gave a little respect back to Lance. Great. Lance rode incredibly well today though - don't take that away from him.

edit:
Missed your added part about Bruyneel.. I did not say anything that he didn't help MAKE Lance as well. I'm just sayin... that after his actions at this Tour.. not so sure they'll (AC/Bruyneel) be together much longer. AC is young and has much to learn.