Posted on 07/03/2015 2:38:45 PM PDT by Baynative
Pinot (Thibaut) - (fra) / Bardet (Romain) - (fra) © Presse Sports
In the lead up to the start of the 102nd Tour de France in Utrecht, letour.com has chosen to highlight five key stages. Of symbolic importance in the development of the race or perhaps decisive with regard to the final general individual classification, they feature the required characteristics for an extraordinary sporting show. The last episode is l'Alpe d'Huez where the final battle is scheduled on the eve of the grand finale in Paris. In a recent past, Frenchmen have performed on the so-called «Dutchmen's climb». Will they do well again this year?
(Excerpt) Read more at letour.com ...
I almost missed this because of outside interests, but thanks to PeteB570 I'm awake and ready to go.
I have been periodically following velo sports articles but, not the calendar and I thought I had another week.
Anyway, this year's Tour looks to be something special and how about that final mountain stage finish on Alp du Huez the day before Paris? So saddle up, clip in and enjoy the ride with the FR Peloton - Oooo-WEEEE!
As a kid, we never wore helmets. I know of nobody ever receiving a head injury by falling off their bikes. I had plenty of road rash from over-exuberance, but never a head injury. Or maybe I just don’t remember it due to a head injury...never mind. It is a good time in American history to be old.
Must be a security nightmare.
I’ve been very spotty in keeping up with pro bike racing this spring. Haven’t kept up with team changes, rider changes, etc, etc.
It will probably take me the first couple of days to catch up.
Contador seems to think it’s his year. Hoping for a two bagger.
An associate of mine lost his son in a biking accident.
Usually wore his helmet but one day he was just going down the street so he didn’t wear it. Car clipped him and he hit his head on the curb.
I’m sorry for his loss, it’s a jungle out there. My bubble wrap suit is at the cleaners so I’m not going anywhere.
On this one, Go France!
I’m sorry for his loss, it’s a jungle out there. My bubble wrap suit is at the cleaners so I’m not going anywhere.
I just can't make myself care anymore, because I feel like whoever wins will be found to have been doping 1 day, 1 month, 1 year, or 1 decade after the fact.
Near as I can tell there’s only three US riders, Tejay, Talansky and Farrar.
I know most of the Lance A crowd aged out but where are the new kids?
A completely discredited sport.
Sort of like women's track and field. Many/Most of the world records are considered "dirty".
So who’s favored this year?
Is Ditka driving?
Is that you Bob Swerski?
Good wrap up of some of the top riders - and the Americans.
http://velonews.competitor.com/tour-de-france-101-beginners-guide
American riders - past, present and future.
Say what you want about both of them but the fact remains they were the premier draws in viewership from the American public who either supported those sports or just viewed them for entertainment.
As a non cyclist, it's hard to get into a sport such as the TDF when there is no major US contender to hold our attention..........
This year it's his team and he has some good support riders. Keep an eye on this fine young man.
+
Good 1st Stage today. GC Contenders stay close and a good ride and a first time Yellow Jersey for Dennis.
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