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Tour de France - Contador should outshine Lance
Eurosport - Mon, 29 Jun 10:20:00 2009
Lance Armstrong's return to the race he dominated for seven years should not stop team-mate Alberto Contador from stamping his authority on a Tour de France more scrutinised than ever before.
Spaniard Contador, winner in 2007, will lead the Astana team but with deluxe domestiques like Armstrong and Tour podium finishers Levi Leipheimer and Andreas Kloeden, his margin for error is extremely slim.
The Armstrong v Contador rivalry is reminiscent of that between Bernard Hinault and American Greg LeMond, who won the 1986 race despite repeated attacks from his French team-mate.
Although Astana manager Johan Bruyneel made clear Contador would be the leader and Armstrong his lieutenant, the seven-times champion is likely to try his luck early in the race to turn the hierarchy upside down.
"I would love to be a little mouse and see how it goes within Astana," Tour director Christian Prudhomme told Reuters.
"Contador will have only a week, and actually two stages, to show he is the boss in his own team."
The opening 15.5km time trial in Monaco on Saturday should give an indication of the favourites' form on a course tailor-made for climber Contador with its 7.5km ascent to the Cote de Beausoleil in the first part.
Contador, one of only five riders with victories in all three Grand Tours, is also expected to make a move in the seventh stage which finishes with an out-of-category climb to Arcalis.
Should he still be in contention at that time, Armstrong, back on the bike after three and a half years in retirement, is convinced he can cause an upset.
"I feel strong, I feel strong enough to win," he told French radio Europe 1. "It will be close - three to one."
But Contador has shown he has no rival when the slopes get really steep and he has dramatically improved against the clock as he proved by winning the Spanish time trial title last week.
The ascent in the penultimate stage to the Mont Ventoux, where Armstrong has often struggled, will be his last master card.
"I'm a much stronger rider all round," the 26-year-old told Reuters.
Contador will also have rivals outside his team.
There is Silence-Lotto's Australian Cadel Evans, runner-up the past two years, although the main threat is likely to come from Saxo Bank and the Schleck brothers, Andy and Frank, who have a very strong team at their disposal.
Champion Carlos Sastre, who left Saxo Bank for Cervelo, cannot be counted out, having shown great form in the Giro, where he snatched two mountain stages.
Giro champion Denis Menchov of Russia will be another contender although Marco Pantani in 1998 was the last man to clinch a Giro/Tour double.
Contador, however, will not have to deal with compatriot Alejandro Valverde, who has been left out of the Caisse d'Epargne team over his alleged involvement in a blood doping scandal in 2006.
Anti-doping authorities have warned they will be merciless after the last three Tour editions were tainted by drugs scandals.
"The Tour de France will be the most tested event in the history of sports," said International Cycling Union head Pat McQuaid.
The UCI and the French Anti-Doping Agency will work together to carry out more than 500 tests throughout the race.
Fifty of the 180 riders will be tested more because they are either top contenders or their biological passport data has raised suspicions in the UCI, McQuaid said earlier this month.
2 Irish riders:
Daniel Martin (nephew of Stephen Roche)
Nicolas Roche (son of Stephen Roche)
Great to see some Irish interest after so many years. But I think the odds say it all, its Contador's to lose. Just hope the extra testing proves it to be a clean race, the sport can do without more high profile doping cases.
Not even the slightest but interested in the feak show - Great interview with Greg Lemond in last weeks Times http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/sport/2009/0627/1224249651626.html (http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/sport/2009/0627/1224249651626.html) - even he sees it a s a lost cause
LeMond seems to fall out with everybody and everything he comes into contact with. I think he resented Armstrong's success.
Theres an edginess and an irishness to this years tour which hasnt existed for a while, has me interested. Come on the roche family.
I think there's something about the Roche lad declaring for France. Not sure about that though.
Cue the annual Lance Armstrong is/isn't a dope fiend.
Always loved the tour, Roche's pursuit of Delgado into La Plagne in 87 is one of the great moments in Irish sport
I loved Le Tour too, was always great watching the highlights on Channel 4, Phil Ligget is one of the best sports commentators EVER.
Never really watched the Tour de France, as I'm not a cyclist myself. Can't help but admire the competitors.
In the early 90s, 94 I think, I was over in Lourdes. The Tour de France came to Lourdes whilst I was there. An amazing site to see them all coming in. Funnily enough, a lot of them were staying at the same hotel I was at. Was great seeing them and their bikes up close.
Quote from: ONeill on July 02, 2009, 09:03:08 AM
I think there's something about the Roche lad declaring for France. Not sure about that though.
His mother's French.
Quote from: Billys Boots on July 02, 2009, 11:52:59 AM
Quote from: ONeill on July 02, 2009, 09:03:08 AM
I think there's something about the Roche lad declaring for France. Not sure about that though.
His mother's French.
Ah, the lovely Lydia!
I'm looking forward to see how Armstrong does. I think a top ten finish would be incredible.
If Armstrong wins it will just confirm what we already know- every single one of them is on drugs.
Quote from: gallsman on July 02, 2009, 02:29:47 PM
If Armstrong wins it will just confirm what we already know- every single one of them is on drugs.
really- how will it prove that?
Looking forward to a great tour. I think tg4 will have it live everyday, when wimbledon (tennis) is finished
Quote from: gallsman on July 02, 2009, 02:29:47 PM
If Armstrong wins it will just confirm what we already know- every single one of them is on drugs.
::)
Really looking forward to this.....usually don't miss a single stage over the three weeks :)
Quote from: heganboy on July 02, 2009, 03:08:52 PM
Quote from: gallsman on July 02, 2009, 02:29:47 PM
If Armstrong wins it will just confirm what we already know- every single one of them is on drugs.
really- how will it prove that?
Because the lot of them are doped up already, and Armstrong just hasn't been caught yet. Contador has a cloud hanging over him. The Tour used to be one of my favourite sporting events and Miguel Indurain was one of my earliest sporting idols, but the sport is damaged beyond repair and the Tour should be disbanded.
Great start from the Astana team
i think this is a great race and the idea is great but I really dont see the point in watching it anymore....how many lads gonna fail drug tests this year?
I hope Armstrong wins the thing, the French are feckers, they hated his success and they have hounded him from day one. if they come out with a claim that he is doping this year i wouldnt believe it, the bastards are hell bent on catching him above all else and they should take a gander at their own before going after the legend that is Armstrong.
If he tested positive anywhere else but France i would believe it but not there.
Decent start from Roche. Finished 8th today and only 43rd overall, 1'27'' behind after yesterday's TT.
Oh yes, and yer other Irishman pulled out before it started with a knee problem.
Cavendish is some sprinter. Barring disaster he should pick up another 2-3 stages. The spill on the final bend helped him immensely though. Shows the importance of the lead out men and being in the first 7-8 going into the last 500 metres.
Armstrong makes his move during the team TT:
Overall:
1. CANCELLARA Fabian TEAM SAXO BANK 10h 38' 07"
2. ARMSTRONG Lance ASTANA 10h 38' 07" + 00' 00"
3. CONTADOR Alberto ASTANA 10h 38' 26" + 00' 19"
48. ROCHE Nicolas AG2R-LA MONDIALE 10h 41' 23" + 03' 16"
Armstrong will be hard to peg back now.
Does Armstrongs chemist get a yellow jersey too if he wins the tour again?
Quote from: Minder on July 07, 2009, 11:11:00 PM
Does Armstrongs chemist get a yellow jersey too if he wins the tour again?
Aye right, he is juiced up even though he knows they are going to do whatever it takes to discredit him. ::)
he has never tested positive so he is clean up till now, innocent until proven guilty and all that.
Quote from: Minder on July 07, 2009, 11:11:00 PM
Does Armstrongs chemist get a yellow jersey too if he wins the tour again?
Armstrong must be a cute hoor and his chemist must be even cuter given that they're out to get him.
Quote from: Minder on July 07, 2009, 11:11:00 PM
Does Armstrongs chemist get a yellow jersey too if he wins the tour again?
Why do you say that?
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 12:30:49 AM
Quote from: Minder on July 07, 2009, 11:11:00 PM
Does Armstrongs chemist get a yellow jersey too if he wins the tour again?
Why do you say that?
Armstrong has beaten all comers in his seven year winning run and most of those he beat have all tested positive for EPO at some stage. It's hard to believe that an athlete who takes nothing illegal can continually beat the worlds best who are all taking the best chemical aids money can buy.
Seems a bit crazy
Quoteand most of those he beat have all tested positive for EPO at some stage.
Really? That's quite a lot, and a bit confusing too.
Our society really is riddled with the British tabloid 'let's think the worst of people' attitude. You saw it in Jackson's death, you see it with Armstrong. With no proof, and even when the evidence appears clear-cut, people refuse to accept that some are better than others.
Armstrong is the most tested cyclist out there. Can you not simply put it down to the fact that he perhaps has more ability in that discipline than others. Is Phelps also on drugs? Carl Lewis, Federer, Red Rum...
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 01:22:48 AM
Quoteand most of those he beat have all tested positive for EPO at some stage.
Really? That's quite a lot, and a bit confusing too.
Our society really is riddled with the British tabloid 'let's think the worst of people' attitude. You saw it in Jackson's death, you see it with Armstrong. With no proof, and even when the evidence appears clear-cut, people refuse to accept that some are better than others.
Armstrong is the most tested cyclist out there. Can you not simply put it down to the fact that he perhaps has more ability in that discipline than others. Is Phelps also on drugs? Carl Lewis, Federer, Red Rum...
Hmmm, I thought it was shown that he'd tested positive at the US trials before either LA or Seoul and US Track & Field decided to cover it up.
Impressive form by the Astana team in the team time trial, quite a difficult discipline on such a tricky course. Todays stage down to perpignan 196.5km looks set up for Cavendish again but with him looking unbeatable in a bunch sprint other teams are bound to be sending guys on long breakways to try and slip the field. They wont hand it on a plate to Cavendish everyday.
Armstrong is looking good but noticed he seemed to be struggling at times in the final few Km of the team TT. The first mountain stage on Friday will tell us where Armstrong is at. I suppose if he doesnt win he will have to try a new drug. ::)
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 01:22:48 AM
Quoteand most of those he beat have all tested positive for EPO at some stage.
Really? That's quite a lot, and a bit confusing too.
Our society really is riddled with the British tabloid 'let's think the worst of people' attitude. You saw it in Jackson's death, you see it with Armstrong. With no proof, and even when the evidence appears clear-cut, people refuse to accept that some are better than others.
Armstrong is the most tested cyclist out there. Can you not simply put it down to the fact that he perhaps has more ability in that discipline than others. Is Phelps also on drugs? Carl Lewis, Federer, Red Rum...
You're dead right here O'Neill. Its a sort of "if someone appears to be doing better than you its because they are cheating or whatever. The antithesis to the American view of life which I believe is much healthier.
Anyone hear Paul Kimmage on off the ball last night??
Quote from: gallsman on July 08, 2009, 09:04:36 AM
Hmmm, I thought it was shown that he'd tested positive at the US trials before either LA or Seoul and US Track & Field decided to cover it up.
Really? It was shown that he covered up a positive test? Tell me more.
Remember this earlier in the year?
Kimmage v Armstrong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUAO7xmNKeA&feature=related
http://nyvelocity.com/content/interviews/2009/david-walsh (http://nyvelocity.com/content/interviews/2009/david-walsh)
Long recent interview with David Walsh - fascinating stuff
Has Armstrong ever sued anybody who made the drug allegations against him?
He has received many out of court settlements.
There's some quota of hacks out there to get him and they do seem to be honest in their conviction that he is a doper.
QuoteHas Armstrong ever sued anybody who made the drug allegations against him?
This is an excerpt from that Walsh interview re the settlement case with hte Sunday Times.
From way back, when Lance sent his lawyer Timothy Herman to London to settle with the Sunday Times, to effectively make sure the case was never heard in open court, the guy who worked for the Sunday Times and was negotiating for the Sunday Times was the managing editor Richard Caseby. Richard and Timothy Herman sat down and thrashed out an agreement. When the agreement was completed, Herman said to Richard, "This was never going to court."And Richard said something to the effect of why not? And Herman said, "Lance has long term political ambitions, and this would not have been helpful, going to court and having all this stuff out there."
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 11:16:54 AM
He has received many out of court settlements.
There's some quota of hacks out there to get him and they do seem to be honest in their conviction that he is a doper.
The old green eyed french media are non too fond of him. You have to go back to 85 for the end of their golden era 75-85 (only interupted by the pesky Zoetmelk in 1980). And it kills them, as it did when Lemond broke the mould in 86 being the first English speaking rider to win it.
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 10:39:16 AM
Quote from: gallsman on July 08, 2009, 09:04:36 AM
Hmmm, I thought it was shown that he'd tested positive at the US trials before either LA or Seoul and US Track & Field decided to cover it up.
Really? It was shown that he covered up a positive test? Tell me more.
I didn't say Lewis covered it up, did I? I said USATF did. Which was wrong, as it was the US Olympic Committee. He tested positive three times before Seoul, but was cleared after he claimed "inadvertent use". Nevertheless, no record of the failed tests appeared for another fifteen years, which seems to perfectly fit in with the definition of "cover up".
I thought it was more that he actually was banned for taking some kind of cough mixture but he appealed it and it was overturned.
Quote from: jimbo on July 08, 2009, 01:48:48 PM
Quote from: ONeill on July 08, 2009, 01:22:48 AM
Quoteand most of those he beat have all tested positive for EPO at some stage.
Really? That's quite a lot, and a bit confusing too.
Our society really is riddled with the British tabloid 'let's think the worst of people' attitude. You saw it in Jackson's death, you see it with Armstrong. With no proof, and even when the evidence appears clear-cut, people refuse to accept that some are better than others.
Armstrong is the most tested cyclist out there. Can you not simply put it down to the fact that he perhaps has more ability in that discipline than others. Is Phelps also on drugs? Carl Lewis, Federer, Red Rum...
Did it not come out in the long grass that Carol Lewis failed drug tests?
Edit - posted after I read rest of thread!
Sister of Carl?
There is photographic evidence of Phelps taking drugs ;)
My recollection on Armstrong is that after the 2005 tour L'Equipe reported that in his first winning Tour de France, in 1999, he had tested positive for EPO. Six separate samples taken during that race revealed positive tests for EPO. Don't know what ever happened after that story came out though-
Quote from: Declan on July 08, 2009, 02:04:08 PM
My recollection on Armstrong is that after the 2005 tour L'Equipe reported that in his first winning Tour de France, in 1999, he had tested positive for EPO. Six separate samples taken during that race revealed positive tests for EPO. Don't know what ever happened after that story came out though-
Had he tested positive (even afterwards) the race would have been taken off him would it not.
QuoteHad he tested positive (even afterwards) the race would have been taken off him would it not.
I'm not sure maddog. Don't think they took it off Riise when he subsequently admitted being doped but am not 100% certain of the rules.
Quote from: Declan on July 08, 2009, 02:15:57 PM
QuoteHad he tested positive (even afterwards) the race would have been taken off him would it not.
I'm not sure maddog. Don't think they took it off Riise when he subsequently admitted being doped but am not 100% certain of the rules.
Yep, Riis is still recognised as te 1996 champion. Might have something to do with the fact that second, third and fourth in that race (Ullrich, Virenque and Dufaux) also subsequently tested positive in their careers.
Quote from: maddog on July 08, 2009, 02:11:16 PM
Quote from: Declan on July 08, 2009, 02:04:08 PM
My recollection on Armstrong is that after the 2005 tour L'Equipe reported that in his first winning Tour de France, in 1999, he had tested positive for EPO. Six separate samples taken during that race revealed positive tests for EPO. Don't know what ever happened after that story came out though-
Had he tested positive (even afterwards) the race would have been taken off him would it not.
As far as I know the process was that flawed that it was thrown out.
From the bible:
Quote
On August 23, 2005, L'Équipe, a major French daily sports newspaper, reported on its front page under the headline "le mensonge Armstrong" ("The Armstrong Lie") that 6 urine samples taken from the cyclist during the prologue and five stages of the 1999 Tour de France, frozen and stored since at "Laboratoire national de dépistage du dopage de Châtenay-Malabry" (LNDD), had tested positive for EPO in recent retesting conducted as part of a research project into EPO testing methods.[38][39] For years, it had been impossible to detect the drug, called erythropoietin, which builds endurance by boosting the production of oxygen carrying red blood cells. The world governing body of cycling, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), did not begin using a urine test for EPO until 2001, two years after the samples were taken. This claim was based on an investigation in which they claimed to be able to match samples from the 1999 Tour that were used to hone the EPO test to Armstrong.[40] To establish a link between Armstrong and the samples, the LNDD matched the tracking numbers on the samples with those on Armstrong's record with the UCI during the 1999 Tour. Armstrong immediately replied on his website, saying, "Unfortunately, the witch hunt continues and tomorrow's article is nothing short of tabloid journalism. The paper even admits in its own article that the science in question here is faulty and that I have no way to defend myself. They state: 'There will therefore be no counter-exam nor regulatory prosecutions, in a strict sense, since defendant's rights cannot be respected.' I will simply restate what I have said many times: I have never taken performance enhancing drugs."[41]
The cross winds were playing havoc again yesterday with the echelons forming across the road and riders getting squeezed out at the back of each group. Very difficult conditions. Long breakaway paid dividends for Thomas Voeckler and a great tactical ride to let the others attack again and again and when the legs were gone and the moment of hesitation was there he put the hammer down and that was it, Stage 5 in the bag. Teams will be trying to do the same today especially with the few climbs throw in, expect long breakaways early in the stage. Cavendish won the bunch sprint for 3rd, he should be a cert for the green jersey. Todays stage wouldnt be necessarily his cup of tea with an uphill finish. Its starting to get interesting and have to say itv4 coverage at 7pm every night is excellent.
How is Armstrong doing? Heard he was 2nd?
Quote from: Denn Forever on July 09, 2009, 12:37:09 PM
How is Armstrong doing? Heard he was 2nd?
Yeah he's 2nd overall, not even a full second behind. He will probably be in yellow tonight if not tomorrow. Cancellara couldn't climb out of bed.
That will be some result for lance to get the yellow today.
Quote from: maddog on July 09, 2009, 12:50:13 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on July 09, 2009, 12:37:09 PM
How is Armstrong doing? Heard he was 2nd?
Yeah he's 2nd overall, not even a full second behind. He will probably be in yellow tonight if not tomorrow. Cancellara couldn't climb out of bed.
Don't be so sure, a lot predicting him to still be in yellow after the weekend
Gallant effort by Millar today.
Anyone hear Cavendish talk? He's from Isle of Man but he sounds Irish.
Quote from: Orior on July 09, 2009, 09:39:52 PM
Gallant effort by Miller today.
thought he had it won with 2 miles to go
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 09, 2009, 09:43:46 PM
Quote from: Orior on July 09, 2009, 09:39:52 PM
Gallant effort by Miller today.
thought he had it won with 2 miles to go
he nearly done it but it cost him overall by dropping 10 positions on the general classification.
good ride by nicholas roche with a 12th place stage finish
Quote from: gerry on July 10, 2009, 12:42:52 AM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 09, 2009, 09:43:46 PM
Quote from: Orior on July 09, 2009, 09:39:52 PM
Gallant effort by Miller today.
thought he had it won with 2 miles to go
he nearly done it but it cost him overall by dropping 10 positions on the general classification.
good ride by nicholas roche with a 12th place stage finish
He did well today, think he finished 8th the other day as well (stage 4?)
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 09, 2009, 09:27:53 PM
Quote from: maddog on July 09, 2009, 12:50:13 PM
Quote from: Denn Forever on July 09, 2009, 12:37:09 PM
How is Armstrong doing? Heard he was 2nd?
Yeah he's 2nd overall, not even a full second behind. He will probably be in yellow tonight if not tomorrow. Cancellara couldn't climb out of bed.
Don't be so sure, a lot predicting him to still be in yellow after the weekend
Can't see it myself. Will be an interesting stage today. Astana 1 2 3 4 on GC perhaps
Armstrong is 4/1 to win the tour - surely too big a price ???????
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 01:52:47 PM
Armstrong is 4/1 to win the tour - surely too big a price ???????
For a guy who was retired for 3 and a half year and is 38 I'd say its too short but this is Armstrong we're talking about. I still don't think he will win it but even making the top 10 would be incredible.
Quote from: magpie seanie on July 10, 2009, 01:55:48 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 01:52:47 PM
Armstrong is 4/1 to win the tour - surely too big a price ???????
For a guy who was retired for 3 and a half year and is 38 I'd say its too short but this is Armstrong we're talking about. I still don't think he will win it but even making the top 10 would be incredible.
Don't say that -
I've just bet him to win the race plus to come in the top 6 !!!!!!!! :(
Not saying its not possible. Top six is very possible. Mountains will tell a lot as always and no way of knowing how he or anyone else will cope.
Quote from: magpie seanie on July 10, 2009, 02:03:51 PM
Not saying its not possible. Top six is very possible. Mountains will tell a lot as always and no way of knowing how he or anyone else will cope.
I think if he gets yellow tonight or in the next day or two, he'll pull out all the stops and wehatever else is needed to stay there. :D ;)
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 02:02:35 PM
Quote from: magpie seanie on July 10, 2009, 01:55:48 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 01:52:47 PM
Armstrong is 4/1 to win the tour - surely too big a price ???????
For a guy who was retired for 3 and a half year and is 38 I'd say its too short but this is Armstrong we're talking about. I still don't think he will win it but even making the top 10 would be incredible.
Don't say that -
I've just bet him to win the race plus to come in the top 6 !!!!!!!! :(
What odds did you get for top 6. I'd say that is nailed on
Quote from: maddog on July 10, 2009, 02:51:46 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 02:02:35 PM
Quote from: magpie seanie on July 10, 2009, 01:55:48 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 10, 2009, 01:52:47 PM
Armstrong is 4/1 to win the tour - surely too big a price ???????
For a guy who was retired for 3 and a half year and is 38 I'd say its too short but this is Armstrong we're talking about. I still don't think he will win it but even making the top 10 would be incredible.
Don't say that -
I've just bet him to win the race plus to come in the top 6 !!!!!!!! :(
What odds did you get for top 6. I'd say that is nailed on
Poor odds but I think it's a cert as well - 2/5
Exciting stage today - the yellow could change hands, though the gap is coming down - http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/cycling/livematch/281265.html
1 Rinaldo NOCENTINI ITA ALM 00''
2 Alberto CONTADOR ESP AST 06''
3 Lance ARMSTRONG USA AST 08''
4 Levi LEIPHEIMER USA AST 39''
5 Bradley WIGGINS GBR GRM 46''
Contador makes a move.
Savage stuff from Contador today, mighty
A great burst from Contador today, I can't see Armstrong having the stamina for the whole race (foolish prediction perhaps), but Contador will have what it takes I'd say.
Stage eight result:
1. Luis Leon Sanchez (Spa/ Caisse d'Epargne) 4 hours 31 minutes 50 seconds
2. Sandy Casar (Fra/Francaise des Jeux) "
3. Mikel Astarloza (Spa/Euskaltel) "
4. Vladimir Efimkin (Rus/AG2R) + 3secs
5. Jose Joaquin Rojas (Spa/Caisse d'Epargne ) + 1min 54 secs
6. Christophe Riblon (Fra/AG2R ) "
7. Peter Velits (Slo/Milram) "
8. Sebastien Minard (Fra/Cofidis ) "
9. Jeremy Roy (Fra/Francaise des Jeux ) "
10. Thomas Voeckler (Fra/Bbox-Bouygues ) "
Selected others:
24. Bradley Wiggins (GB/Garmin) "
38. Lance Armstrong (USA/Astana) "
53. David Millar (GB/Garmin) "
97. Charlie Wegelius (GB/Silence) + 14mins 14secs
113. Mark Cavendish (GB/Columbia) + 23mins 02secs
Overall standings:
1. Rinaldo Nocentini (Ita/AG2R) 30 hours 18 minutes 16 seconds
2. Alberto Contador (Spa/Astana) + 6secs
3. Lance Armstrong (USA/Astana) + 8
4. Levi Leipheimer (USA/Astana) + 39
5. Bradley Wiggins (GB/Garmin) + 46
Selected others:
16. Carlos Sastre (Spa/Cervelo) + 2minutes 52secs
77. David Millar (GB/Garmin) + 27mins 18 secs
96. Charlie Wegelius (GB/Silence) + 34mins 6secs
131. Mark Cavendish (GB/Team Columbia) + 49mins 31secs
with the first week over and in his first tour, young nick doing a good job
50. ROCHE Nicolas 89 AG2R-LA MONDIALE 34h 41' 06" + 16' 45"
Quote from: gerry on July 12, 2009, 08:03:12 PM
with the first week over and in his first tour, young nick doing a good job
50. ROCHE Nicolas 89 AG2R-LA MONDIALE 34h 41' 06" + 16' 45"
And he is 9th of 36 in the race for the white jersey which aint to bad at all. 15min 45sec down on the kid who's winning it.
I'd say on balance he'll be happy enough but he lost about 12 minutes on the yellow jersey on Saturday - 2 of the 3 days in the Pyrenees he done well, the other day was Saturday.
He be about 20th overall if he had stayed with the yellow jersey group on Saturday.
Seven-time champion Lance Armstrong has hinted he will compete in next year's Tour de France after coming out of retirement to ride in the 2009 event.
Asked if this would be his final Tour, the 37-year-old said: "Probably not. Probably not. Maybe one more Tour."
The Texan also confirmed rumours all is not well between himself and Astana team-mate Alberto Contador.
"The honest truth is that there's a little tension," he said. "Alberto is strong, and he's very ambitious."
Armstrong finished Sunday's ninth stage just eight seconds off the leading pace of Rinaldo Nocentini, an Italian riding for AG2R who is not considered a yellow jersey contender.
Spaniard Contador, the 2007 champion who started as the yellow jersey favourite, is second overall only six seconds off the pace ahead of Monday's rest day.
Armstrong said if the 26-year-old Contador proved his worth he would accept having to play second fiddle in the team.
"If he proves to be the strongest in the race, there's nothing I can do," he said.
Meanwhile, Armstrong had an emotional reunion with the parents of his former Motorola team-mate Fabio Casartelli after climbing the Portet d'Aspet pass, where the Italian rider died in a crash during the Tour 14 years ago.
"We see each other once a year, sometimes more. They continue to be like family to me," said Armstrong. "For me, it's nice to see them, they're wonderful people and they're nice to be around."
give me this bike and i will win the tour this year
my bike (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8147104.stm)
Interesting story regarding Ireland's Nicolas Roche who was talking to one of the team sponsors in the Tour village after Sunday's stage when he heard a loud bang and the next thing he knew his leg was bleeding and sore. The AG2R man thought he had been shot but ASO said it was an ice compressor that exploded on one of the trucks behind the village and that it could have been a bolt or something that tore his leg.
Eurosport
Quote from: ONeill on July 14, 2009, 01:25:21 PM
Interesting story regarding Ireland's Nicolas Roche who was talking to one of the team sponsors in the Tour village after Sunday's stage when he heard a loud bang and the next thing he knew his leg was bleeding and sore. The AG2R man thought he had been shot but ASO said it was an ice compressor that exploded on one of the trucks behind the village and that it could have been a bolt or something that tore his leg.
Eurosport
Read that - Ncholas writes a diary daily in the Indo. He was convinced that it was an airgun or something at the time.
Cavendish takes the stage win today - that's three stage wins for Mark so far. No changes today.
another good race my nick today
17. ROCHE Nicolas 89 AG2R-LA MONDIALE 4h 46' 43" + 00' 00"
I see when Cavendish won today he took the green glasses off to wave them thinking he had got the green jersey back, what a w**ker. it would be great to see hushovd win the green jersey overall, though can't see it happening.
There used to be a red jersey in the Tour. What was that for, does anyone remember?
Quote from: Aerlik on July 15, 2009, 10:19:24 AM
There used to be a red jersey in the Tour. What was that for, does anyone remember?
it was for the intermediate sprints along the road. A town or village would put up a few grand as prize money and the winner through a particular point would scoop the money. There also used to be a combined jersey which was for the rider that was highest average in all competitions. The intermediate sprints along the road now count towards the green jersey.
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 15, 2009, 05:55:43 AM
I see when Cavendish won today he took the green glasses off to wave them thinking he had got the green jersey back, what a w**ker. it would be great to see hushovd win the green jersey overall, though can't see it happening.
Cavendish will struggle to make it through the Alps.
The main group have nearly caught up with the escape. They're now on their tails with only about 20 seconds between them and 11k left.
There's not going to be any change in GC todahy either.
Cavendish strikes for another stage win. Green jersey back to him.
Quote from: gallsman on July 15, 2009, 02:10:13 PM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 15, 2009, 05:55:43 AM
I see when Cavendish won today he took the green glasses off to wave them thinking he had got the green jersey back, what a w**ker. it would be great to see hushovd win the green jersey overall, though can't see it happening.
Cavendish will struggle to make it through the Alps.
No more so than the other sprinters in the race. He will get through it all right. Dont agree that it would be great if Hushovd could win the green, at the end of the day Cavendish is the fastest man in the race and if he can make it to the champs elysees id expect another win.
Cavendish is some sprinter, though it seems that the only people he is popular with is the English.
Quote from: Fear ón Srath Bán on July 15, 2009, 04:51:41 PM
Cavendish is some sprinter, though it seems that the only people he is popular with is the English.
Comes across as cocky. Able to back it up though.
Mark Cavendish. Cheeky Dub? He's from the IoM more or less within the Pale.
Quote from: gallsman on July 15, 2009, 05:07:47 PM
Quote from: Fear ón Srath Bán on July 15, 2009, 04:51:41 PM
Cavendish is some sprinter, though it seems that the only people he is popular with is the English.
Comes across as cocky. Able to back it up though.
Cocky or confident ? He's at the top of his game so every right to be confident. In his interview last night he praised his opponents and more or less said it was his team that was getting him the victories. Didnt smack of arrogance to me.
Manx magician Mark Cavendish equalled his tally of four wins in a Tour de France on a day that he was accused of being a racist bully.
Just like the radio ban, this one had Blazin' Saddles flummoxed. If anyone should be accused as having something against this race, it is lanterne rouge Kenny van Hummel, dribbling in at almost two hours off the pace.
Cav has just won his second double of the Tour and equalled the British record for wins in France - this is no hollow cause, it's a race he clearly loves. Such is his dominance, we could start calling him Master Race, but surely not racist?
In earnest, the claims came after an unnamed French rider supposedly went running to the press with the shocking revelation that: "Cavendish is racist, he's anti-French."
Breezing over the fact he had possibly confused xenophobia for racism - have you ever heard of the French race? - the rider warned: "He should be careful. We're not going to put up with his attitude much longer."
What are they going to do? Go on a breakaway and deprive him of another stage victory? Steal those green sunglasses of his? Come up with a more infuriating celebration than him? Punch him in the kidneys, a la Piet Rooijakkers?
BS wonders what Cav could have said to ruffle so many Gallic plumes? Maybe he called Sammy Dumoulin a frog? Hardly honorary KKK stuff though, is it?
Rumours now emerge that in fact it all stemmed from the rest day when, waiting for the delayed plane, Cav was overheard saying: "F****** Frenchies". (This, of course, is something BS never says - just does... especially when in France working on the Tour.)
Cav, of course, denied the whole charade, claiming he had even started learning French so he could give post-victory interviews. "I love to be here and race," he clarified. And there you have it: how can a guy who loves race be a racist?
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/16072009/58/tour-de-france-blazin-saddles-supreme.html
I see Eurosport reckon Nicholas Roche doesn't have a nationality. ::)
Did any of you see the "english speaking team" of all time on itv4 last night. I only caught a little bit of it but they had managed to pick from memory (Armstrong, Lemond, Sean Yates, robert Millar, Sean Kelly, Mark Cavendish, Phil Anderson, Bradley Wiggins and i think Boardman)
No Roche ::) maybe Dublinese isn't considered English
They must have been looking for a climber, no other reason to have Millar there before Roche. He should be ahead of Yates, Boardman and Wiggins too.
It was confirmed yesterday that that two competitors were shot at. Pellet from an irgun were taken from them.
There might have been something to that story about Nicholas Roche after all.
anyway he had another good day yesterday
Quote from: maddog on July 15, 2009, 10:57:59 AM
Quote from: Aerlik on July 15, 2009, 10:19:24 AM
There used to be a red jersey in the Tour. What was that for, does anyone remember?
it was for the intermediate sprints along the road. A town or village would put up a few grand as prize money and the winner through a particular point would scoop the money. There also used to be a combined jersey which was for the rider that was highest average in all competitions. The intermediate sprints along the road now count towards the green jersey.
Thanks Maddog. Never understood that 'til now.
Quote from: maddog on July 16, 2009, 12:45:02 PM
Did any of you see the "english speaking team" of all time on itv4 last night. I only caught a little bit of it but they had managed to pick from memory (Armstrong, Lemond, Sean Yates, robert Millar, Sean Kelly, Mark Cavendish, Phil Anderson, Bradley Wiggins and i think Boardman)
No Roche ::) maybe Dublinese isn't considered English
I well remember Phil Liggett commenting on Stephen Roche (and I paraphrase for the benefit of the "i-dotters" and "t-crossers") after his historic win in 1987: Stephen Roche, the first English-speaking rider to win the tour
and the Giro d'Italia in the same year FFS, couldn't he just have rightfully acknowledged Roche as the first IRISHman to win the race, in other words winning something before an Englishman did? No, of course not.
SBS 1 in Oz is showing the debacle at Lords as opposed to the drama of the tour this year. Thank goodness there's no TV licence in Oz.
Has anyone else been to any tour stages? I went in 1988 to see the one which passed through Valenciennes where I was studying at the time. It was over in about 5 minutes. The entourage took longer. In 1989 I waited for over three hours on a fence at the end of the stage in Montpellier. The next day I got Sean Kelly's photo. A few days later a mate and I headed to the Alp D'Huez. We decided to try to cycle to the summit starting very early. Needless to say we only made it about a third of the way up before we nearly collapsed. It was sensational watching the riders go by. We had bother walking up the hill yet they were zipping past us.
Cavendish disqualified yesterday and placed last for trying to ram one of the other riders into a wall at the last sprint.
Quote from: Aerlik on July 19, 2009, 08:41:15 AM
I well remember Phil Liggett commenting on Stephen Roche (and I paraphrase for the benefit of the "i-dotters" and "t-crossers") after his historic win in 1987: Stephen Roche, the first English-speaking rider to win the tour.
You sure? 'Cos LeMond won it the year before...
Quote from: orangeman on July 19, 2009, 10:01:54 AM
Cavendish disqualified yesterday and placed last for trying to ram one of the other riders into a wall at the last sprint.
just seen highlights of that tonight, seems a bit harsh and has killed of the battle of the green jersey which is a pity
Quote from: gallsman on July 19, 2009, 09:23:02 PM
Quote from: Aerlik on July 19, 2009, 08:41:15 AM
I well remember Phil Liggett commenting on Stephen Roche (and I paraphrase for the benefit of the "i-dotters" and "t-crossers") after his historic win in 1987: Stephen Roche, the first English-speaking rider to win the tour.
You sure? 'Cos LeMond won it the year before...
Whaow, you beat the usual typo-police to it, Gallsman. I included the bit about the Giro, post your reply.
Quote from: gerry on July 20, 2009, 01:33:07 AM
Quote from: orangeman on July 19, 2009, 10:01:54 AM
Cavendish disqualified yesterday and placed last for trying to ram one of the other riders into a wall at the last sprint.
just seen highlights of that tonight, seems a bit harsh and has killed of the battle of the green jersey which is a pity
Cavendish was very harsly done by there. The road narrowed. Ive seen over the years guys head butting punching and trying to knock each other off and nothing was ever done, to put in GAA perspective this was the cycling equivelant of a 3 month ban for a push in the back.
Quote from: Aerlik on July 20, 2009, 05:42:07 AM
Quote from: gallsman on July 19, 2009, 09:23:02 PM
Quote from: Aerlik on July 19, 2009, 08:41:15 AM
I well remember Phil Liggett commenting on Stephen Roche (and I paraphrase for the benefit of the "i-dotters" and "t-crossers") after his historic win in 1987: Stephen Roche, the first English-speaking rider to win the tour.
You sure? 'Cos LeMond won it the year before...
Whaow, you beat the usual typo-police to it, Gallsman. I included the bit about the Giro, post your reply.
Nothing to do with being petty, just questioning whether you got your dates mixed up or something. It seems odd that a knowledgeable broadcaster such as Phil Liggett would forget about Greg LeMond a year later.
Contadoe showed Armstrong who was boss yesterday.
Still hope that Armstrong will finish in the top 6 though. He is currently 2nd and I notice his odds of finishing in the top 6 six have really lengthened. Has he given up ?
Bradley Wiggins is an interesting story. To go from track cyclist to Tour contender is quite the leap. He can definitely time trial and it looks like he can climb. This is the first time he has taken a big tour really seriously and he may well be holding something back. I think he'll test himself more in the mountains in the stages to come.
Great ride my nick the other day to finish second, its a pity he is not given a free rain by his team so that we see more of him. going by todays article in the indo he got a bit of hassle by the other breakaway riders.
'They called me every name under the sun' (http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/they-called-me-every-name-under-the-sun-1830452.html)
That's some insight into the tour.
Armstrong was very defeatest after contadore's mountains win the other day. said he gave it everything but he's just not a on a par with those guys.
Contadore is some climber. schleck will be a serious challenger after this year
Great racing today. Amazing scenery. Some magnificent climbs.
Nicholas Roche going very well so far.
General classification will probably be the same after today.
Another great by Roche.
4th today.
Roche really went hard to chase down the breakaway.
Lance Armstrong seemed to get dropped off the group but somehow found his legs again to get back into the group again. He's not finished yet and has apparently said he's coming back next year again.
Roche just misses out in frantic finish
Tuesday, 21 July 2009 16:44
Nicolas Roche just missed out on Tour de France glory for the second time in a row, finishing fourth behind Euskaltel-Euskadi's Mikel Asterloza in Monday's 16th stage.
Roche was second in Sunday's stage and with Monday a rest day found himself at the head of affairs again today.
After a tough day in the mountains, he was one of eight riders who took part in a 10km frantic downhill sprint for the line after clearing a massive climb, the Col-du-Petit St Bernard, the final part of a 159km trek from Martigny to Bourg St Maurice.
The Irishman was part of the second group of four, and they eventually overhauled three of those.
But Euskaltel-Euskadi rider Asterloza had flown by the time they arrived and Roche finished eight seconds behind. He put in a burst with just over 2km to go and staying clear to the line to win by six seconds.
Pierrick Fedrigo finished in third.
Alberto Contador retained the yellow jersey, controlling the main chasing group from the front with his Astana team although his general classement second placed team-mate Lance Armstrong had to work hard to stay with him.
Armstrong briefly became slightly detached from Contador but got back to the yellow jersey before the end of the final climb and is 1'37 behind the leader with another big mountain stage to come on Tuesday.
Bradley Wiggins also finished in Contador's group and is 1'46 back
The two Schlecks and Contador finally cracked Wiggins today. Will be very close in the time trial if he can get himself back onto the podium. Thor Hushovd made a very brave move earlier in the day to win the two intermediate sprints and all but secure the green jersey.
Overall standings:
1. Contador
2. A Schleck
3. F Schleck
4. Armstrong
5. Kloden
6. Wiggins
Contador's to lose now. Wiggins got a lesson today. Armstrong in 4th postion now and looking good for a top six finish.
Roche 24th overall now (out of 158). Another couple of decent stages and he could break the top 20.
Stage 20 - Montélimar to Mont Ventoux on Saturday is going to be a clinker.
Quote from: ONeill on July 22, 2009, 05:19:59 PM
Roche 24th overall now (out of 158). Another couple of decent stages and he could break the top 20.
Went very well yesterday and is showing a lot of grit. Doing very well.
I used to be glued to the Tour years back in the day of Martin Earley, Stehen Roche and Sean Kelly, but haven't watched it in years.
So to you experts has young Roche the pedigree to win it someday?
Quote from: Norf Tyrone on July 22, 2009, 07:11:58 PM
I used to be glued to the Tour years back in the day of Martin Earley, Stehen Roche and Sean Kelly, but haven't watched it in years.
So to you experts has young Roche the pedigree to win it someday?
Hard to say. The differnce between being in the first 20 and winning is massive.
Quote from: Norf Tyrone on July 22, 2009, 07:11:58 PM
I used to be glued to the Tour years back in the day of Martin Earley, Stehen Roche and Sean Kelly, but haven't watched it in years.
So to you experts has young Roche the pedigree to win it someday?
In a word, I'd have to say no. Some of the top guys at the minute (Andy Schleck for example) are younger than him.
Quote from: orangeman on July 22, 2009, 05:02:19 PM
Contador's to lose now. Wiggins got a lesson today. Armstrong in 4th postion now and looking good for a top six finish.
Lance still has a good chance to finish second and i think he will
Great finish today. Nice work by Contador...he could have won that stage had he really wanted but the reaction of the two Schleck brothers was fantastic. Maybe sportsmanship is not dead.
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 23, 2009, 06:37:48 AM
Quote from: orangeman on July 22, 2009, 05:02:19 PM
Contador's to lose now. Wiggins got a lesson today. Armstrong in 4th postion now and looking good for a top six finish.
Lance still has a good chance to finish second and i think he will
Yeah, he should pull back time on the TT (is that today?). Incredible performance really.
Quote from: magpie seanie on July 23, 2009, 10:52:27 AM
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on July 23, 2009, 06:37:48 AM
Quote from: orangeman on July 22, 2009, 05:02:19 PM
Contador's to lose now. Wiggins got a lesson today. Armstrong in 4th postion now and looking good for a top six finish.
Lance still has a good chance to finish second and i think he will
Yeah, he should pull back time on the TT (is that today?). Incredible performance really.
TT is today. Armstrong desperately wants on that podium on Sunday evening.
Simply stunning performance from Contador today to win the time trial. His improvement in the discipline over the last few years is incredible. Without doubt the strongest overall rider in the world. He's only 26 and could very conceivably break Armstrong's record as long as he stays healthy.
Contador was savage today. Blew them all away today. 48mins 30sec. Has developed into a serious TT rider.
Armstrong came in 50mins exactly - and is now 3rd in GC and will want to stay in a podium position. Not the rider of old but that was always too much to expect.
Contador is set to dominate for years.
Quote from: orangeman on July 23, 2009, 04:42:53 PM
Contador was savage today. Blew them all away today. 48mins 30sec. Has developed into a serious TT rider.
Armstrong came in 50mins exactly - and is now 3rd in GC and will want to stay in a podium position. Not the rider of old but that was always too much to expect.
Contador is set to dominate for years.
I cant see Armstrongs feats ever being eclipsed. There are so many variables in the tour, weather, strength of teams, doping and crashes etc to contend with, Contador is a brilliant rider however to simply say he will dominate for years to come is a stretch, you never know with the tour and there is a ton of talent out there who will want what he has and do what it takes to get it.
lads,ne1 know were i could pick up a decent road racing bike for a good price?been doing a lot of looking about but most prices more than what i can afford.
how long has wiggins been doing road racing?
if he were to concentrate on it would be not make a serious impact?
Armstrong to launch new US team
Seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong will quit Astana and form a US-based team for 2010.
The new outfit will be known as Team RadioShack and sponsored by the American electronics retail giant.
Armstrong said: "To compete for an American team with the world's top cyclists, supported by the best coaches and staff - I couldn't be happier."
The Texan returned to competition with Astana after a four-year retirement and lies third overall in this year's Tour.
In a statement, the RadioShack Corporation said: "Lance Armstrong will compete for Team RadioShack as a cyclist, runner and triathlete in events around the world, including the 2010 Tour de France."
Earlier this year, doubts over the financial situation of Astana - which is bankrolled by an arm of the Kazakh government - led to fears the team would be barred from the Tour.
Armstrong's Astana manager Johan Bruyneel, who guided him to his seven Tour wins, has made it clear he will be leaving the team after this season.
Armstrong, who successfully battled cancer in 1998 to return to cycling and win the first of seven consecutive yellow jerseys in 1999, said the fight against the disease through his Livestrong Foundation would remain a priority.
"This has been a great season so far - the response in the countries we've been to has been amazing and it's clear now that this was the right choice," he said.
"Utilising the massive media attention that the sport receives has been the perfect vehicle to help spread the Livestrong message around the world.
"We have an incredible opportunity to leverage RadioShack's connection to tens of millions of people to spread the Livestrong message."
RadioShack's chief marketing officer Lee Applbaum said: "As one of the greatest athletes of our generation, a father, a cancer survivor, and a tireless advocate in the fight against cancer, Lance understands the power of keeping people connected, and that's why we feel he's the perfect partner for our brand."
The announcement was made immediately after the 18th stage of the Tour de France, won by Armstrong's Astana team-mate and race leader Alberto Contador.
Asked whether he would be part of the project, the Spaniard, who has not always seen eye-to-eye with Armstrong, said: "I heard that Lance was launching a new structure. But I just want to concentrate on winning the Tour and we'll see afterwards."
Armstrong's new team have submitted an application to the International Cycling Union (UCI) for a ProTour licence, which is needed to race in road racing's top events.
UCI president Pat McQuaid said: "They delivered it to us on Monday, it then goes through a process of evaluation and eventually the license commission takes a decision based on a variety of criteria."
I still think there's a twist in the tail. Saturday's race is a tough one. I can see Armstrong, knowing AC is safe, launching one last attempt. However, I hear today took a lot out of Armstrong so maybe he hasn't it in him.
Quote from: ONeill on July 23, 2009, 09:28:38 PM
I still think there's a twist in the tail. Saturday's race is a tough one. I can see Armstrong, knowing AC is safe, launching one last attempt. However, I hear today took a lot out of Armstrong so maybe he hasn't it in him.
Contador will not be caught now, unless he gets injured, what Armstrong has accomplished so far this year is amazing, and he couldnt even prepare properly given the dislocated shoulder.
I hope he finishes in a podium spot, he will do well to finish in the top three and Saturday will put him to the test severely.
Quote from: ONeill on July 23, 2009, 09:28:38 PM
I still think there's a twist in the tail. Saturday's race is a tough one. I can see Armstrong, knowing AC is safe, launching one last attempt. However, I hear today took a lot out of Armstrong so maybe he hasn't it in him.
Contador will need to fall off to lose.
Quote from: ONeill on July 23, 2009, 09:28:38 PM
I still think there's a twist in the tail. Saturday's race is a tough one. I can see Armstrong, knowing AC is safe, launching one last attempt. However, I hear today took a lot out of Armstrong so maybe he hasn't it in him.
I dont think armstrong will do it this year, but in his defence, he didnt really train to win the Tour this year. Next year with a full years training for the tour de france under his belt, will be a better measure of his ability to win it again.
Lance will be back next year, better prepared, maybe with a better team. The collar bone break really hampered him.
Yet another clinker from Roche - he'll win a stage next year. He's up to 5th on the Green and 23rd overall. Cavendish again.
Roche is coming along nicely and is maturing all the time. He'll be a force next year.
Armstrong went well again.
I think my top 6 bet is in the bag now.
A savage climb of Mont Ventoux today. No changes to the GC. Massive effort by Armstrong to stay with the leaders the whole way. My top 6 bet is up.
Armstrong would have taken a podium finish at the beginning of the tour.
how did roche do ?
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 03:55:29 PM
how did roche do ?
Finished 49th on the stage - still 23rd overall.
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:00:15 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 03:55:29 PM
how did roche do ?
Finished 49th on the stage - still 23rd overall.
cheers orangeman . fairplay to him he has had a great tour especially considering its his 1st one . i enjoy reading his race diary in the independent
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 04:39:46 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:00:15 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 03:55:29 PM
how did roche do ?
Finished 49th on the stage - still 23rd overall.
cheers orangeman . fairplay to him he has had a great tour especially considering its his 1st one . i enjoy reading his race diary in the independent
I particulary enjoyed reading about him grabbing the Italian the throat who had criticised him on TV.
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:42:03 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 04:39:46 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:00:15 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 03:55:29 PM
how did roche do ?
Finished 49th on the stage - still 23rd overall.
cheers orangeman . fairplay to him he has had a great tour especially considering its his 1st one . i enjoy reading his race diary in the independent
I particulary enjoyed reading about him grabbing the Italian the throat who had criticised him on TV.
yeah i'd say the italian wasn't expecting that
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 04:55:48 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:42:03 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 04:39:46 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 25, 2009, 04:00:15 PM
Quote from: the Deel Rover on July 25, 2009, 03:55:29 PM
how did roche do ?
Finished 49th on the stage - still 23rd overall.
cheers orangeman . fairplay to him he has had a great tour especially considering its his 1st one . i enjoy reading his race diary in the independent
I particulary enjoyed reading about him grabbing the Italian the throat who had criticised him on TV.
yeah i'd say the italian wasn't expecting that
His ould man wouldn't have been that popular with the italians in his day either.
Cavendish takes the final stage today.
Congrats to Contador.
Did anyone hear if there was anyone caught for doping this year ? Seemed to me to be one of the cleanest tours for years.
Quote from: maddog on July 27, 2009, 09:14:05 AM
Did anyone hear if there was anyone caught for doping this year ? Seemed to me to be one of the cleanest tours for years.
Plenty of time yet for a wee bit of scandal. ;)
The cheats are always one step ahead of the posse. The people who are caught are the ones who made mistakes or got clumsy.
In the Times today it said they are retrospectively testing 15 samples from the 2008 tour with a new EPO test. Retrospective testing can be a good way of catching cheats, though it didn't say why they were only re-testing 15 samples.
Tour de France winner Alberto Contador has launched a stinging attack on Astana team-mate Lance Armstrong.
The 26-year-old Spaniard won his second Tour title in Paris on Sunday, with American Armstrong finishing third.
"My relationship with Lance Armstrong is zero," Contador told a news conference in Madrid.
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
The 26-year-old Spaniard was the strongest rider in the mountains and in the time trials and eventually beat Andy Schleck into second place by four minutes 11 seconds, with Armstrong third at 5:24 back and Briton Bradley Wiggins in fourth, 6:01 adrift.
There were regular reports of tension between Armstrong and Contador throughout the event, with the 37-year-old seven-time champion - making his first appearance in the race since 2005 - often criticising his Astana team-mate's strategy.
We need duels in sport, like Rafael Nadal v Roger Federer or Bernard Hinault v Greg LeMond
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
Contador admitted relations between the two were strained throughout.
"The situation was tense and delicate because the relationship between myself and Lance extended to the rest of the staff," he said.
"On this Tour, the days in the hotel were harder than the those on the road."
Contador, who missed last year's Tour after Astana were not invited because of their past doping record, refused to be drawn on his future but it seems unlikely to lie with Astana.
"We'll have to see what happens," he said. "I don't know where I will go but it will clearly be with a team that is 100% behind me."
Armstrong had earlier hailed his team-mate's abilities, claiming Contador is so good the Spaniard would have beaten him in his own heyday.
"I think this year's performance would have beaten my performances in 2001, 2004 and 2005," said Armstrong.
There is no love lost between Contador and Armstrong out of the saddle
"Contador is that good, so I don't see how I would have been higher than that, even in the other years."
With Armstrong set to return to the Tour next year with his new Team RadioShack, the two will no longer have to hide their rivalry amid the constraints of being team-mates.
Race organiser Christian Prudhomme is among those relishing the prospect of another vintage race in 2010.
"We need duels in sport, like Rafael Nadal v Roger Federer or Bernard Hinault v Greg LeMond," he said.
"We haven't decided which teams will be invited next year but, looking ahead, a team with Contador, another with Armstrong and another one with the Schleck brothers (Andy and Frank) would be sensational."
Andy Schleck, the younger of the Luxembourg brothers who twice previously won the Tour's white jersey awarded to its best rider under 25, has already sent Contador a warning.
"I'm coming back to take the yellow jersey," said the 24-year-old.
"Alberto showed this year that he was the strongest, the real boss of the peloton. I have much respect for him, but next year I'm coming to win."
After a number of doping scandals to have hit the Tour in recent years, including the disqualification of 2006 winner Floyd Landis after testing positive for testosterone, the 2009 event passed without incident, pending the final test results.
Three years ago pre-race favourites Ivan Basso and Jan Ullrich were ejected because of their links to the 'Operation Puerto' doping affair in Spain and a year later Astana were disqualified after leader Alexandre Vinokourov tested positive for blood doping.
606: DEBATE
Hats off to Contador and Andy Schleck
mainz341
"Coming through the Tour without having to deal with scandal was pleasing," Prudhomme added.
"There will be other (positive) cases, that's just the way it is in sport. But I really think things are changing. The targeting of riders and the (biological) passport means that nowadays it is far more difficult to cheat and get away with it."
After his victory on Sunday following almost 3,500km of racing over 21 stages in three weeks, Contador added: "I'm happy to win a Tour de France that has so far been clean.
"I get tested all year long. I make myself available 365 days a year, and I do it willingly. There has been huge investment to fight doping in the sport and for me it's a good thing."
He also admitted the race had been a tough one and that his celebrations would reflect his efforts in the event.
"This Tour was very difficult as you could see and although it sometimes seems easy on television it wasn't because of other factors. I will enjoy this second Tour win as if it was a double victory," he said.
Will make next years Tour very interesting with Armstrong and Contador on opposing teams.
Quote from: Doogie Browser on July 28, 2009, 10:35:20 AM
Will make next years Tour very interesting with Armstrong and Contador on opposing teams.
And the Schleck brothers on another team.
BITCHY OR WHAT ???????????
Armstrong hits back at Contador
Armstrong (r) is not used to seeing someone else in the yellow jersey
Lance Armstrong says his Astana team-mate Alberto Contador has "lots to learn" after the pair's strained relationship finally boiled over.
Contador won his second Tour de France title in Paris on Sunday, with seven-time winner Armstrong finishing in an unfamiliar third.
The 26-year-old said: "My relationship with Lance Armstrong is zero."
But Armstrong countered: "If I were him I'd drop this drivel and thank his team. Without them he doesn't win."
Contador admitted relations between the two were awkward throughout the three-week Tour, with neither prepared to settle for second billing until the Spaniard proved his superiority in the mountains.
"The situation was tense and delicate because the relationship between myself and Lance extended to the rest of the staff," he said.
"On this Tour, the days in the hotel were harder than the those on the road.
We need duels in sport, like Rafael Nadal v Roger Federer or Bernard Hinault v Greg LeMond
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
Armstrong will return to the Tour next year with a new team, Radio Shack, and the rivalry between the two promises to be spicy after the veneer of unity was soon removed at the end of the race.
"A champion is also measured on how much he respect his teammates and opponents," wrote Armstrong on his Twitter feed.
"There is no 'i' in 'team'. What did I say in March? Lots to learn. Restated."
"hey pistolero, there is no "I" in team"
attaboy lance.
Quote from: orangeman on July 28, 2009, 12:31:54 PM
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
Who is he talking about here? Contador or Armastrong?
Dont be suprised to see the Schelks with Armstrong next year Orangeman
Quote from: Joxer on July 28, 2009, 04:52:33 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 28, 2009, 12:31:54 PM
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
Who is he talking about here? Contador or Armastrong?
Dont be suprised to see the Schelks with Armstrong next year Orangeman
I've heard that rumour alright. Also heard that he's taking Andreas Koden as well from Astana.
Quote from: maddog on July 27, 2009, 09:14:05 AM
Did anyone hear if there was anyone caught for doping this year ? Seemed to me to be one of the cleanest tours for years.
spoke to soon
Tour de France stage 16 winner Mikel Astarloza has been suspended by the International Cycling Union after a positive test for blood-booster EPO (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/cycling/8178940.stm)
Quote from: Joxer on July 28, 2009, 04:52:33 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 28, 2009, 12:31:54 PM
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
Who is he talking about here? Contador or Armastrong?
Dont be suprised to see the Schelks with Armstrong next year Orangeman
I would seriously doubt that, Andy is a genuine GC contender and will hardly entertain
supporting Lance in his quest for an 8th...I'd safely say he'll head up a team of his own
with Frank in tow.
QuoteBITCHY OR WHAT HuhHuhHuh??
I don't see it as bitchy at all OM, Contador single handedly ruined the chance for a 123
for Astana in towing both Schleks to the line...there's no way in hell that those were Bruyneel's
team orders, Kloden has got to be pissed off with him also!
Quote from: gerry on July 31, 2009, 11:58:25 PM
Quote from: maddog on July 27, 2009, 09:14:05 AM
Did anyone hear if there was anyone caught for doping this year ? Seemed to me to be one of the cleanest tours for years.
spoke to soon
Tour de France stage 16 winner Mikel Astarloza has been suspended by the International Cycling Union after a positive test for blood-booster EPO (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/cycling/8178940.stm)
Thought for a sec that was the stage where Roche finished 2nd - but just checked and Roche had crossed the line in 4th place.
Quote from: Tyrones own on August 01, 2009, 01:24:05 AM
Quote from: Joxer on July 28, 2009, 04:52:33 PM
Quote from: orangeman on July 28, 2009, 12:31:54 PM
Tour organiser Christian Prudhomme
"He is a great rider but it is another thing on a personal level, where I have never had great admiration for him and I never will."
Who is he talking about here? Contador or Armastrong?
Dont be suprised to see the Schelks with Armstrong next year Orangeman
I would seriously doubt that, Andy is a genuine GC contender and will hardly entertain
supporting Lance in his quest for an 8th...I'd safely say he'll head up a team of his own
with Frank in tow.
QuoteBITCHY OR WHAT HuhHuhHuh??
I don't see it as bitchy at all OM, Contador single handedly ruined the chance for a 123
for Astana in towing both Schleks to the line...there's no way in hell that those were Bruyneel's
team orders, Kloden has got to be pissed off with him also!
True enough. Contador just went out and did his own thing but on camera put it across that everything was well with the team, like the day ( in the Alps ) Lance fell back and managed to get back in touch again after putting in a massive effort, Contador rode over to him and gave him a big pat on the back.
The Schleks might form a team of their own alright. But they just might go with Lance. I suppose it will be down to the $ on offer.
I think it would make the tour even more interesting next year if lance, contador and the schleks all had their own teams. With all of them going for the win from the start.
They should put them all on the same drugs then we would see who is the best..............
Quote from: anportmorforjfc on August 01, 2009, 05:05:27 PM
I think it would make the tour even more interesting next year if lance, contador and the schleks all had their own teams. With all of them going for the win from the start.
I'd be very surprised if that wasn't the case
they found some dodgy looking syringes that the Astana team handed into the tour officials to get rid of safely. surely they wouldn't be that stupid
Armstrong to face media questions over 'Astana syringes'
Lance Armstrong is set to be greeted by a wave of questions about a possible 'affaire Astana' when he arrives in Paris for the Tour de France route presentation on Wednesday morning, following reports that French police are investigating what have been described as 'suspicious syringes' used by the Astana team from the 2009 Tour de France.
According to a report on the website of French newspaper l'Equipe (www.equipe.fr), investigators in Paris have began preliminary investigations after the discovery of several suspicious syringes in the containers the Tour de France organisers given to teams for the safe disposal of syringes.
The Astana team dominated the Tour de France with Spain's Alberto Contador winning overall and Lance Armstrong finishing third on the final podium in Paris.
The investigation is being carried out by the OCLAESP (Office central de lutte contre les atteintes à l'environnement et à la santé publique) - the central office for the fight against effects on the environment and public health.
According to a source close to the investigation contacted by the Le Monde newspaper (www.lemonde.fr), the investigation is being held in the same context as the complaints by the AFLD about doping procedures at the Tour de France and follows the seizure of 'hundreds of syringes' and 'blood perfusion material' by the OCLAESP.
According to l'Equipe, the syringes used during the Tour de France are to be tested by the Paris Toxlab laboratory to discover what substances they contain and if they were registered for use during the Tour de France.
The report in l'Equipe does not say when the results of the analysis will be known, although Le Monde indicates the end of October as a possible date.
Quote from: gerry on October 13, 2009, 07:03:17 PM
they found some dodgy looking syringes that the Astana team handed into the tour officials to get rid of safely. surely they wouldn't be that stupid
Armstrong to face media questions over 'Astana syringes'
Lance Armstrong is set to be greeted by a wave of questions about a possible 'affaire Astana' when he arrives in Paris for the Tour de France route presentation on Wednesday morning, following reports that French police are investigating what have been described as 'suspicious syringes' used by the Astana team from the 2009 Tour de France.
According to a report on the website of French newspaper l'Equipe (www.equipe.fr), investigators in Paris have began preliminary investigations after the discovery of several suspicious syringes in the containers the Tour de France organisers given to teams for the safe disposal of syringes.
The Astana team dominated the Tour de France with Spain's Alberto Contador winning overall and Lance Armstrong finishing third on the final podium in Paris.
The investigation is being carried out by the OCLAESP (Office central de lutte contre les atteintes à l'environnement et à la santé publique) - the central office for the fight against effects on the environment and public health.
According to a source close to the investigation contacted by the Le Monde newspaper (www.lemonde.fr), the investigation is being held in the same context as the complaints by the AFLD about doping procedures at the Tour de France and follows the seizure of 'hundreds of syringes' and 'blood perfusion material' by the OCLAESP.
According to l'Equipe, the syringes used during the Tour de France are to be tested by the Paris Toxlab laboratory to discover what substances they contain and if they were registered for use during the Tour de France.
The report in l'Equipe does not say when the results of the analysis will be known, although Le Monde indicates the end of October as a possible date.
Can't see them being that silly. Slow news week.
There will be no time ttt in next years event and only one itt.