The Tour is upon us once again, starting this next Saturday. This is the thread where you should post your teams and where I will update the scores. The rules are the same of the previous competitions:

- Everyone, even if they don't know nothing about what we're talking about, is more than welcome to take part in it.

- In the list of riders that I posted in the other thread, choose 9 (no more, no less, 9 riders it shall be) and take notice that each rider has their price in Touros in front. Prices go from 5 to 110 and you can only spend a maximum of 200 touros in total in building your team. Aside from the budget you have to buy the cyclers there are no other limitations in building your fantasy team, you can pick as many from one team as you want.

- Pick also one of the teams in the list below as your bet to win the Teams Time Trial. This one costs nothing.

- The pointing system is as follows:

5 points for each stage winners (that means that if you have a rider in your team that wins a stage you'll score 5 points), 3 an 1 point for 2nd and 3rd each stage respectively

5 points for the team that wins the Teams Time Trial, 3 for 2nd and 1 for 3rd as above

3 points for a day with the yellow jersey

2 points for a day with the green and polka dot jersey

1 point for a day with the white jersey

8 points for who wins the green jersey and polka dot (mountains) jersey in Paris

3 points for the final white jersey

2 points for the most comabative rider in the end

Points from 1st to 10th in the General Classification in the end in the following pattern: 20-15-10-8-6-5-4-3-2-1

If a rider that is in this list and it turns out that he won't ride the Tour, you can switch him if you have chosen him, but only before the Tour starts. If a rider abandons during the race, you can't replace him, but you will keep the points won by him.

Is it allowed to have a team with less than 9 riders, like Armstrong, Ullrich and Basso for 105+65+30=200 Touros?

Is it allowed to have a team with less than 9 riders, like Armstrong, Ullrich and Basso for 105+65+30=200 Touros?

No, you must pick 9 riders.

The list is not yet definitive.

May I ask, where IS the list? :confused:

It is in an attached file in the thread Elsaak started.

When will it be definitive? I ask because I might not be on here between tomorrow afternoon and the start of the thing.

Between tonight and tomorrow morning...

:yeah:

That means I might not miss it, unlike the Giro competition...

I was actually quite bored during Greece - Czechia, so I put a team together. If there are no changes in points anymore my winning combination will be:

55 Alessandro Petacchi (Ita) Fassa Bortolo
45 Iban Mayo (Spa) Euskaltel-Euskadi
20 Santiago Botero (Col) T-Mobile
20 Stuart O'Grady (Aus) Cofidis
20 Jaan Kirsipuu (Est) AG2r Prevoyance
20 Bradley McGee (Aus) FDJeux
10 Patrice Halgand (Fra) Credit Agricole
5 Sébastien Hinault (Fra) Credit Agricole
5 Thierry Marichal (Bel) Lotto-Domo

200 Touros

For the Teams Time Trial I pick US Postal-Berry Floor.

Ok, here is the full list from which you have to pick 9 riders and a team for the Team Time Trial:

US Postal-Berry Floor

Lance Armstrong (Usa) - 105
José Azevedo (Por) - 10
Manuel Beltran (Spa) - 10
Viatcheslav Ekimov (Rus) - 10
George Hincapie (Usa) - 10
Floyd Landis (Usa) - 10
Benjamin Noval (Spa) - 5
Pavel Padrnos (Cze) - 5
José L.Rubiera (Spa) - 10


T-Mobile

Jan Ullrich (Ger) - 65
Rolf Aldag (Ger - 10
Santiago Botero (Col) - 20
Giuseppe Guerini (Ita) - 10
Sergey Ivanov (Rus) - 5
Matthias Kessler (Ger) - 5
Andreas Klöden (Ger) - 10
Daniele Nardello (Ita) - 10
Erik Zabel (Ger) - 40


Fassa Bortolo

Marzio Bruseghin (Ita) - 10
Fabian Cancellara (Ita) - 5
Juan A.Flecha (Spa) - 15
Aitor Gonzalez (Spa) - 25
Kim Kirchen (Lux) - 5
Alessandro Petacchi (Ita) - 55
Filippo Pozzato (Ita) - 5
Matteo Tosatto (Ita) - 10
Marco Velo (Ita) - 10


Cofidis

Frédéric Bessy (Fra) - 5
Jimmy Casper (Fra) - 15
Christophe Edaleine (Fra) - 10
Jimmy Engoulvent (Fra) - 5
Dmitri Fofonov (Kaz) - 5
David Moncoutié (Fra) - 10
Stuart O'Grady (Aus) - 20
Janek Tombak (Est) - 5
Matthew White (Aus) - 10


CSC

Kurt-Asle Arvesen (Nor) - 5
Ivan Basso (Ita) - 30
Michele Bartoli (Ita) - 15
Bobby Julich (Usa) - 15
Andrea Peron (Ita) - 10
Jacob Piil Storm (Den) - 10
Carlos Sastre (Spa) - 20
Nicki Sørensen (Den) - 10
Jens Voigt (Ger) - 10


Gerolsteiner

René Haselbacher (Aut) - 5
Danilo Hondo (Ger) - 10
Sebastian Lang (Ger) - 5
Sven Montgomery (Swi) - 10
Uwe Peschel (Ger) - 10
Ronny Scholz (Ger) - 5
Georg Totschnig (Aut) - 15
Peter Wrölich (Aut) - 5
Fabian Wegmann (Ger) - 15


Rabobank

Michael Boogerd (Ned) - 20
Bram de Groot (Ned) - 5
Erik Dekker (Ned) - 15
Karsten Kroon (Ned) - 10
Levi Leipheimer (Usa) - 25
Marc Lotz (Ned) - 5
Grischa Niermann (Ger) - 5
Michael Rasmussen (Den) - 20
Marc Wauters (Bel) - 10


Saeco

Gilberto Simoni (Ita) - 45
Stefano Casagranda (Ita) - 10
Mirko Celestino (Ita) - 5
Salvatore Commesso (Ita) - 10
David Loosli (Swi) - 5
Gerrit Glomser (Aut) - 5
Jörg Ludewig (Ger) - 5
Evgueni Petrov (Rus) - 5
Marius Sabaliauskas (Ltu) - 5


Quick Step-Davitamon

Paolo Bettini (Ita) - 20
Tom Boonen (Bel) - 15
Davide Bramati (Ita) - 10
Laurent Dufaux (Swi) - 15
Servais Knaven (Ned) - 10
Juan M.Mercado (Spa) - 15
Michael Rogers (Aus) - 15
Richard Virenque (Fra) - 25
Stefano Zanini (Ita) - 10


Euskaltel-Euskadi

Iban Mayo (Spa) - 45
Iker Camaño (Spa) - 5
David Etxebarria (Spa) - 10
Unai Etxebarria (Ven) - 10
Iker Flores (Spa) - 10
Gorka Gonzalez (Spa) - 5
Iñigo Landaluze (Spa) - 5
Egoi Martinez (Spa) - 5
Haimar Zubeldia (Spa) - 35


Illes Balears-Banesto

Daniel Becke (Ger) - 10
José Garcia Acosta (Spa) - 15
José I.Gutierrez (Spa) - 5
Vladimir Karpets (Rus) - 10
Francisco Mancebo (Spa) - 20
Denis Menchov (Rus) - 15
Aitor Osa (Spa) - 10
Mikel Pradera (Spa) - 10
Xabier Zandio (Spa) - 5


Liberty Seguros

Roberto Heras (Spa) - 45
Dariusz Baranowski (Pol) - 10
Allan Davis (Aus) - 5
Igor Glez. Galdeano (Spa) - 25
Jan Hruska (Cze) - 10
Isidro Nozal (Spa) - 15
Marcos Serrano (Spa) - 10
Christian VandeVelde (Usa) - 10
Angel Vicioso (Spa) - 10


Alessio-Bianchi

Magnus Backstedt (Swe) - 10
Fabio Baldato (Ita) - 10
Alessandro Bertolini (Ita) - 10
Pietro Caucchioli (Ita) - 10
Martin Hvastija (Slo) - 5
Marcus Ljungqvist (Swe) - 5
Claus Möller (Den) - 15
Andrea Noè (Ita) - 15
Scott Sunderland (Aus) - 5


Lotto-Domo

Christophe Brandt (Bel) - 10
Nick Gates (Aus) - 5
Thierry Marichal (Bel) - 5
Robbie McEwen (Aus) - 45
Axel Merckx (Bel) - 15
Koos Moerenhout (Ned) - 5
Wim Vansevenant (Bel) - 5
Rik Verbrugghe (Bel) - 10
Aart Vierhouten (Ned) - 10


Phonak

Tyler Hamilton (Usa) - 45
Martin Elmiger (Swi) - 5
Santos Gonzalez (Spa) - 10
Bert Grabsch (Ger) - 5
José Enr.Gutierrez (Spa) - 10
Nicolas Jalabert (Fra) - 5
Oscar Pereiro (Spa) - 10
Santiago Perez (Spa) - 10
Oscar Sevilla (Spa) - 30


AG2r Prevoyance

Mikel Astarloza (Spa) - 20
Laurent Brochard (Fra) - 10
Samuel Dumoulin (Fra) - 5
Stéphane Goubert (Fra) - 5
Jaan Kirsipuu (Est) - 20
Yuriy Krivtsov (Ukr) - 5
Jean-Patrick Nazon (Fra) - 10
Nicolas Portal (Fra) - 5
Mark Scanlon (Irl) - 5


Brioches La Boulangère

Walter Bénéteau (Fra) - 5
Anthony Charteau (Fra) - 5
Sylvain Chavanel (Fra) - 15
Maryan Hary (Fra) - 5
Laurent Lefèvre (Fra) - 5
Jérôme Pineau (Fra) - 10
Franck Renier (Fra) - 5
Didier Rous (Fra) - 15
Thomas Voeckler (Fra) - 5


Credit Agricole

Alexandre Botcharov (Rus) - 15
Julian Dean (NZl) - 10
Pierrick Fedrigo (Fra) - 5
Patrice Halgand (Fra) - 10
Sébastien Hinault (Fra) - 5
Thor Hushovd (Nor) - 10
Sébastien Joly (Fra) - 5
Christophe Moreau (Fra) - 20
Benoît Salmon (Fra) - 5


FDJeux.com

Sandy Casar (Fra) - 15
Baden Cooke (Aus) - 30
Carlos Dacruz (Fra) - 5
Bernhard Eisel (Aut) - 5
Frédéric Guesdon (Fra) - 5
Bradley McGee (Aus) - 20
Christophe Mengin (Fra) - 10
Jean-Cyril Robin (Fra) - 5
Matthew Wilson (Aus) - 10


RAGT Semences-MG Rover

Guillaume Auger (Fra) - 10
Pierre Bourquenoud (Swi) - 5
Gilles Bouvard (Fra) - 5
Sylvain Calzati (Fra) - 5
Frédéric Finot (Fra) - 5
Christophe Laurent (Fra) - 5
Ludovic Martin (Fra) - 5
Christophe Rinero (Fra) - 15
Eddy Seigneur (Fra) - 10


Domina Vacanze

Mario Cipollini (Ita) - 40
Gian Matteo Fagnini (Ita) - 10
Massimo Giunti (Ita) - 5
Sergio Marinangeli (Ita) - 5
Massimiliano Mori (Ita) - 5
Michele Scarponi (Ita) - 10
Francesco Secchiari (Ita) - 10
Filippo Simeoni (Ita) - 5
Paolo Valoti (Ita) - 5

Here's my team:

Jan Ullrich (Ger) - 65
Richard Virenque (Fra) - 25
Stuart O'Grady (Aus) - 20
Francisco Mancebo (Spa) - 20
Bradley McGee (Aus) - 20
Jimmy Casper (Fra) - 15
Tom Boonen (Bel) - 15
Jens Voigt (Ger) - 10
Uwe Peschel (Ger) - 10

200 touros.

Team trial winner: T-Mobile

Mine:

Richard Virenque - 25
Roberto Heras - 45
Alessandro Petacchi - 55
Robbie McEwan - 45
Vladimir Karpets - 10
Allan Davis - 5
Janek Tombek - 5
Nicolas Jalabert - 5
Massimo Giunti - 5

200 Turos.

Team Time Trial : US Postal.

Team Time Trail: US Postal-Berry Floor

Lance Armstrong - 105
Erik Zabel - 40
José Azevedo - 10
Manuel Beltran - 10
George Hincapie - 10
Floyd Landis - 10
Benjamin Noval - 5
Pavel Padrnos - 5
Fabian Cancellara -5

200 Turos.

Here is my team :

Jan Ullrich - 65
Alessandro Petacchi - 55
Karsten Kroon - 10
Jaan Kirsipuu - 20
Alexandre Botcharov - 15
Jens Voigt - 10
Christophe Laurent - 5
Christophe Mengin - 10
Jean-Patrick Nazon - 10

Team Trial : T-Mobile

so, I re-edit mine here ; here is my team :

Jan Ullrich (Ger) T-Mobile 65 Ts
Alessandro Petacchi (Ita) Fassa Bortolo 55 Ts
Richard Virenque (Fra) Quick Step D 25 Ts
Bradley McGee (Aus) FDJeux.com 20 Ts
Jean-Patrick Nazon (Fra) AG2r Prevoyance 10 Ts
Thor Hushovd (Nor) Credit Agricole 10 Ts
Carlos Dacruz (Fra) FDJeux.com 5 Ts
Benoît Salmon (Fra) Credit Agricole 5 Ts
Thomas Voeckler (Fra) Brioches B 5 Ts
TTT : USP

Alessandro Petacchi (Ita) - 55
Stuart O'Grady (Aus) - 20
Tom Boonen (Bel) - 15
Iban Mayo (Spa) - 45
Alessandro Bertolini (Ita) - 10
Nicolas Jalabert (Fra) - 5
Christophe Moreau (Fra) - 20
Denis Menchov (Rus) - 15
Axel Merckx (Bel) - 15

Team Time Trial: US Postal

My Team:

Ullrich - 65
Petacchi - 55
Hondo - 10
Menchov - 15
McGee - 20
Ludewig - 5
Voigt - 10
Hushovd - 10
Becke - 10

TT: Liberty Seguros


My GF watched me picking my team and, because she is used to watch the TdF with me the last years, she picked a team herself. hope it is ok, she doesn't want to register here just for doing this.

Womens Lib: ;)

Hamilton - 45
Sastre - 20
Leipheimer - 25
Virenque - 25
Casper - 15
Mayo - 45
Hondo - 10
JP Nazon - 10
Iwanov - 5

TT: US Postal

55 - Petacchi
45 - Mayo
45 - Heras
25 - Galdeano
10 - Azevedo
5 - Pozzato
5 - Ludewig
5 - Grabsch
5 - Noval

TTP: US POSTAL

[QUOTE=Serutan]Mine:
Rik Verbrugghe - 5
QUOTE]

Rik Verbrugghe costs 10 Touros Serutan... You'll have to change that.

Mine:

Jan Ullrich - 65
Alessandro Petacchi - 55
Baden Cooke - 30
Bradley McGee - 20
Thor Ushovd - 10
Carlos Dacruz - 5
Jorg Ludewig - 5
Filippo Pozzato - 5
Benoît Salmon - 5

TTT: T-Mobile

team name "Melee Trick"

Alessandro Petacchi (Ita) - 55
Erik Dekker (Ned) - 15
Bradley McGee (Aus) - 20
Stuart O'Grady (Aus) - 20
Richard Virenque (Fra) - 25
Rik Verbrugghe (Bel) - 10
Santiago Botero (Col) - 20
Michael Rogers (Aus) - 15
Paolo Bettini (Ita) - 20

200 Touros.
Team trial: US Postal

Jan Ullrich - 65
Alessandro Petacchi - 55
Bradley McGee - 20
Stuart o'Grady - 20
Rubiera - 10
Sergey Ivanov - 5
David Etxebarria - 10
Nicolas Jalabert - 5
Servais Knaven - 10

Team - US Postal

Team vacant discards last years mega points winner and team leader Armstrong (and is robbed of the services of Millar) in favour of:

Ullrich 65
Pettachi 55
McGee 20
OGrady 20
Kursipuu 20
Jalabert 5
Ludewig 5
Gates 5
Zandio 5

Team: T Mobile

The Ronald Reagan Memorial Team

Armstrong, US Postal - 105
Saeco, Simoni - 45
Moncoutie, Confidis - 10
Peschel, Gerolsteiner - 10
Baldato, Alessio-Bianchi - 10
Charteau, Brioches la Boulangere - 5
Bouvard, RAGT - 5
Martin, RAGT - 5
Joly, Credit Agricole - 5

Team - Phonak

OK, I’m a bit late, but hey, I’ll finish last anyway, just like last year…

Team Darkness

J. Ullrich - 65
A. Petacchi - 55
C. Sastre - 20
K. Kroon - 10
T. Hushovd - 10
I. Landaluze - 5
D. Etxebarria – 10
A. Osa - 10
D. Menchov – 15

TTT bet : US Postal

Will there be daily updates (please)?

Yes, there will be regular updates, I hope, but I haven't had time for it yet. I will update everything tonight hopefully.

current classification after 2nd stage :

:) it's better look at MCdread good work ! :D

Prologue (3rd July):

1st: Fabian Cancellara - 5
2nd: Lance Armstrong - 3
3rd: José Gutierrez - 1

1st stage (4th July):

1st: Jan Kirsipuu - 5
2nd: Robbie McEwen - 3
3rd: Thor Ushovd - 1

Jerseys:

Yellow: Fabian Cancellara - 3
Green: Fabian Cancellara - 2
Polka-Dot: -
White: Fabian Cancellara - 1

2nd stage (5th July):

1st: Robbie McEwen - 5
2nd: Thor Ushovd - 3
3rd: Jean-Patrick Nazon - 1

Jerseys:

Yellow: Fabian Cancellara - 3
Green: Thor Ushovd - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Fabian Cancellara - 1


Standings (after stage 2):

Gumby78 - 18
Serutan - 8
Elsaak - 7
AVN - 6
Darkness - 6
MCdread - 6
SanPellegrino - 6
El Sop - 5
prettyvacant - 5
MrPresident - 3
Rik Meleet - 2
Womens Lib - 1
-Oblivion- - 0
addiv - 0
Hitro - 0
Inter32 - 0

3rd stage (6th July):

1st: Jean-Patrick Nazon - 5
2nd: Erik Zabel - 3
3rd: Robbie McEwen - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thor Ushovd - 3
Green: Thor Ushovd - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Fabian Cancellara - 1


Standings (after stage 3):

Gumby78 - 22
Elsaak - 17
AVN - 11
MCdread - 11
SanPellegrino - 11
Darkness - 10
Serutan - 9
Womens Lib - 6
El Sop - 5
prettyvacant - 5
Rik Meleet - 4
-Oblivion- - 0
addiv - 0
Hitro - 0
Inter32 - 0
MrPresident - 0


Had to make a few adjustements (basicly down :D ) due to late submissions. Sorry.

I thought McEwan had both yellow and green after today (Stage 3), or is there
a day delay on the jerseys?

The points are given for number of days wearing the jerseys. McEwen didn't wear them yet. Only tomorrow. People who have him will only get those points tomorrow... if he's at the start. :mischief:

4th stage (7th July), TTT:

1st: US Postal - 5
2nd: Phonak - 3
3rd: Illes Baleares - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Robbie McEwen - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Fabian Cancellara - 1


5th stage (8th July):

1st: Stuart O' Grady - 5
2nd: Jakob Piil - 3
3rd: Sandy Casar - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Matthias Kessler - 1


Standings (after stage 5):

Gumby78 - 31
Elsaak - 22
Serutan - 21
Rik Meleet - 18
Darkness - 15
El Sop - 15
AVN - 11
MCdread - 11
SanPellegrino - 11
Womens Lib - 11
-Oblivion- - 10
addiv - 10
prettyvacant - 10
MrPresident - 6
Hitro - 5
Inter32 - 5

todays stage reminded me of the 30 minutes US Postal gave a group 2 (?) years ago, maybe not too good an idea for Armstrong to make Casar strong, OTOH he didn't wanted to waste his team today

Well, what about Voeckler? He ended 5th in Classique des Alpes!

I think it wasn't as dramatic as that one a few years ago, and the race conditions weren't so bad either. But it's also true that the riders that were on the break away were a little more important than the ones in 2001 (I think it was this the year). Maybe Casar can finish in top 10 now, but I guess it won't be enough to trouble the top riders in the end.

Now, I hope that Voeckler will stay a few days in yellow.... :D :king:

Maybe Darkness should have 16 pts...
(HUSHOVD 1+5+5 and USP 5)

Well, what about Voeckler? He ended 5th in Classique des Alpes!

yes, right, I read today that he also won a pyrenee stage at the Route du Sud. It is not very likely, but the two french have potential for a sensation.

I think it wasn't as dramatic as that one a few years ago, and the race conditions weren't so bad either. But it's also true that the riders that were on the break away were a little more important than the ones in 2001 (I think it was this the year). Maybe Casar can finish in top 10 now, but I guess it won't be enough to trouble the top riders in the end.

Yeah, if they had really been troubled, Phonak, Postal, and T-Mobile would
have joined forces to chase them down. And you're right, it was in 2001
when that 30 min. breakaway occurred.

Petacchi, injured yesterday in its crash, suffering with his shoulder, has called it a day and packed.

He will not take the departure today....

After Bradley McGee, its my second rider off

Petacchi, injured yesterday in its crash, suffering with his shoulder, has called it a day and packed.

He will not take the departure today....


Well, so much for my 55 point investment... :(

yes :
I was thinking about Petacchi or McEwen, and I know see that I was wrong !

I just read it. A real pity, although didn't show good shape so far.

After Bradley McGee, its my second rider off
Same here... What happened to McGee by the way? I missed that.

McGee had back problems due to gardening. Seriously :rolleyes:
Just read that Cipo has quit as well!

Petacchi gone and McGee gone -> 75 points down the drain. But can't complain really with O'Grady and Bettini in my team.

I join the Petacchi/McGee loser club. except Hushovd all my riders were disappointing until now.

Petacchi, injured yesterday in its crash, suffering with his shoulder, has called it a day and packed.

He will not take the departure today....

After Bradley McGee, its my second rider off

After Gates and McGee its my third :eek: Still; was lucky enough to be at home yesterday pm so watched O'Gradys great victory.

I'll be changing my location shortly.

I'm another one of those that just saw 75 Touros go down the toilet... And with Baden Cooke still in an unknown location, make that 105 so far. This is setting up to be my worst score in all the cycling competitions we've run so far.
Anyway, returning to the TTT, what does everyone think of what happened to Simoni and Sastre. There was a 2 seconds gap between them and the bunch of their teams, and because of that they were given the real time gap, instead of the team's gap. Rules are rules, but it seems a bit harsh, since the finish section was a difficult course and it was raining and all...

yes, the TT rules are totally jackassed, they should go back to the old system or skip it completely.

I'm a long time defender of erasing the TTT from the Tour de France. Or instead make it a 15 km prologue to present the teams.

Maybe Darkness should have 16 pts...
(HUSHOVD 1+5+5 and USP 5)

Had to make a few adjustements (basicly down :D ) due to late submissions. Sorry. ;)



6th stage (9th July):

1st: Tom Boonen - 5
2nd: Stuart O' Grady - 3
3rd: Erik Zabel - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 6):

Gumby78 - 32
Elsaak - 26
Serutan - 23
Rik Meleet - 23
-Oblivion- - 18
El Sop - 18
Darkness - 15
addiv - 13
Hitro - 13
prettyvacant - 13
AVN - 11
MCdread - 11
SanPellegrino - 11
Womens Lib - 11
MrPresident - 6
Inter32 - 5

I knew you were worth my touros Boonen and O'Grady :D
But Pettachi :cry:
Why couldn't you have the good grace to at least earn me some points before you retired for this injury :gripe:

I knew you were worth my touros Boonen and O'Grady :D
But Pettachi :cry:
Why couldn't you have the good grace to at least earn me some points before you retired for this injury :gripe:

I too was hoping Pettachi would earn some stage win points before
he (as I had anticipated, at least) quit around stage 10.
McEwan is my long term green jersey guy. ;)
Oh well, so it goes.

@McDread - I agree with you about the TTT. It doesn't really have a
place in the Tour, unless perhaps it didn't count at all towards
GC, but instead completely determined the team standings.

7th stage (10th July):

1st: Filippo Pozzato - 5
2nd: Iker Flores - 3
3rd: Francisco Mancebo - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Stuart O'Grady - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 7):

Gumby78 - 32
Elsaak - 30
Rik Meleet - 27
Serutan - 23
-Oblivion- - 20
El Sop - 20
Hitro - 16
MCdread - 16
addiv - 15
Darkness - 15
prettyvacant - 15
AVN - 11
SanPellegrino - 11
Womens Lib - 11
Inter32 - 10
MrPresident - 6

O'Grady has the green jersey, not McEwen ;)

Indeed. Thanks. The points were given to O'Grady though. It was just the limitations of quoting the previous post to limit the writing. ;)

Ah, i see. I thought you might have just made a typo as i still gained my 2 points. Thankyou for changing the name :D

8th stage (11th July):

1st: Thor Ushovd - 5
2nd: Kim Kirchen - 3
3rd: Erik Zabel - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Stuart O'Grady - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 8):

Elsaak - 39
Gumby78 - 33
Rik Meleet - 31
Serutan - 23
-Oblivion- - 22
El Sop - 22
MCdread - 21
Darkness - 20
Hitro - 18
addiv - 17
prettyvacant - 17
SanPellegrino - 16
AVN - 11
Womens Lib - 11
Inter32 - 10
MrPresident - 6

Bah, you silly boy O'Grady, now i won't have your 2 points for the green jersey on Tuesday..

Special Thanks to Thomas VOECKLER, that give me temporarly the "Maillot Jaune" !!!

on this current standings, maybe Darkness could have 21 pts = 1+5+5 HUSHOVD + 5 USP
And MrPresident 9 pts = 3+3 Armstrong + 3 Phonak.....

MCdread, you're doing a great job ; I'm leaving for holidays until the end of July, so I will not have any internet connection, and I'm sure you will continue to animate this theard.
Have pleasure, and I hope everyone a good game....

on this current standings, maybe Darkness could have 21 pts = 1+5+5 HUSHOVD + 5 USP
And MrPresident 9 pts = 3+3 Armstrong + 3 Phonak.....


Like I said the last time: :p

Had to make a few adjustements (basicly down ) due to late submissions. Sorry.

;)

Enjoy your holidays Elsaak. :)

3 down, 6 to go :sad:
Kirsipuu also stopped doing what he's paid for today :mad:

9th stage (13th July):

1st: Robbie McEwen - 5
2nd: Thor Ushovd - 3
3rd: Stuart O'Grady - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 9):

Elsaak - 46
Rik Meleet - 34
Gumby78 - 33
Serutan - 30
MCdread - 24
-Oblivion- - 23
Darkness - 23
El Sop - 23
Hitro - 19
SanPellegrino - 19
addiv - 18
prettyvacant - 18
AVN - 11
Womens Lib - 11
Inter32 - 10
MrPresident - 6

Ah, Robbie has come through! :cool: Hopefully, Richard will start
doing his thing tomorrow (it has the look of the type stage he'd go for).
Will also be interesting to see if the GC contenders start getting serious.
Should be an interesting day, all in all.

Yeah ! 2nd place. Thank you Bettini and O'Grady !!

yes, tomorrow the tour really starts. I am hoping guys like Mancebo, Mayo and Heras to try something tomorrow.

yes, tomorrow the tour really starts. I am hoping guys like Mancebo, Mayo and Heras to try something tomorrow.

Given tomorrow is Bastille Day, my money is on Virenque to do something.
Although Mayo wouldn't surprise me.

Given tomorrow is Bastille Day, my money is on Virenque to do something.

I hope for you it was a lot of money! :goodjob:

10th stage (14th July):

1st: Richard Virenque - 5
2nd: Andreas Klöden - 3
3rd: Erik Zabel - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Paolo Bettini - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 10):

Elsaak - 55
Rik Meleet - 41
Serutan - 37
Gumby78 - 34
MCdread - 24
Hitro - 24
-Oblivion- - 23
Darkness - 23
El Sop - 23
SanPellegrino - 19
addiv - 18
prettyvacant - 18
Womens Lib - 16
AVN - 11
Inter32 - 10
MrPresident - 6

Voeckler handled himself very well today. He never lost contact with the first group, and although at the end it was a very large group, it grew after after the last difficulty, so it was a great stage for him. He only seemed to have a few problems in the the most difficult climb of the day (a 1st category climb), where he went to the back of the group but managed to hang on over there. Like I said a few days ago at another site (or maybe it was here, but can't bother myself to look :p), some people might get a surprise with the number of days we'll keep that jersey. Of course the other guys from the breakaway came in the same group too (except Backstedt), but Voeckler was allways there and allways at the front of the race. He even sprinted for 4th place at the end...

For the rest, Virenque was the favourite and won. Great stage for him. The rest of the stage was very quiet, no one tried anything. The most interesting parts were when in the aforementioned climb, Ullrich led the pack for a while, with the help of his team mate Klöden, with Armstrong marking him well. Only they know how they feel and in how good form they are, but by the look of it, both giants seemed in a good moment. However their teams didn't look so well: US Postal only had Azevedo, and T-Mobile only had Klöden at the front of the race. In particular, Beltran was very absent from the front, but this wouldn't be a decisive stage and maybe they just kept an eye opened and saved their energies.
And in the end, Armstrong tried to gain a few seconds out of his rivals and possibly some time bonus too, and Ullrich seemed to hesitate at first, but reacted quickly and closed the gap. Many others however lost 7 seconds to Armstrong and Ullrich, which is nothing, but sends a message of confidence and control to everyone.

Finally, did you catch Matthias Kessler's crash? That was scary. After a few minutes he was up in the bike, but I can't believe he hasn't broken a few ribs and Ullrich will probably loose a team mate that could be very useful...

Ah, i was pretty excited when Merckx went up with Virenque, because he is in my list. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. He was just a cheap filler anyway i seem to remember..

I hope for you it was a lot of money! :goodjob:

25 Touros! :D

@McDread : You may be right about Voeckler. He didn't crack today,
so I think he is going to be harder to catch than originally thought.

I love the Tour de France..

Anyone interested should look at http://www.cyclingnews.com for all results/standings of almost all cyclingcourses through the year.

I was quite surprised Richard was allowed to gain so much time on Lance&Co.

I was quite surprised Richard was allowed to gain so much time on Lance&Co.

Virenque is no danger for the yellow yersey. So for me this was no surprise.
Richard had his usual good day, and he will probably win the mountain price.
But IMHO that's all he will do in this Tour.

Virenque is no danger for the yellow yersey. So for me this was no surprise.
Richard had his usual good day, and he will probably win the mountain price.
But IMHO that's all he will do in this Tour.

I wouldn't be surprised if he gets the yellow jersey for a day or two!

I think Stapel means he was surprised 'cause Virenque and Armstrong don't like eachother and Armstrong always rides actively against those he doesn't like (just ask McEwen or the entire Rabobank team)....

11th stage (15th July):

1st: David Moncoutié - 5
2nd: Juan Antonio Flecha - 3
3rd: Egoi Martinez - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1

Standings (after stage 11):

Elsaak - 63
Rik Meleet - 43
Serutan - 41
Gumby78 - 34
Hitro - 26
MCdread - 24
-Oblivion- - 23
Darkness - 23
El Sop - 23
SanPellegrino - 19
addiv - 18
prettyvacant - 18
Womens Lib - 18
AVN - 11
MrPresident - 11
Inter32 - 10

Btw, does anyone else think (El Sop lives in Spain, so maybe he could also provide a hint) that today political grudges ruined the stage for Flecha and Martinez? Martinez is basque from an all basque team, and to me it seemed obvious that not only he'd never reach an agreement with his spanish countryman, but he actually did everything to wuin Flecha's chances.
And with this, it is the second stage that Euskaltel looses the chance to win right in end, after the one last Tuesday.

Btw, does anyone else think (El Sop lives in Spain, so maybe he could also provide a hint) that today political grudges ruined the stage for Flecha and Martinez? Martinez is basque from an all basque team, and to me it seemed obvious that not only he'd never reach an agreement with his spanish countryman, but he actually did everything to wuin Flecha's chances.
And with this, it is the second stage that Euskaltel looses the chance to win right in end, after the one last Tuesday.

It was clear that there was great rivalry between the two Spaniards, but I doubt that rivalry was based on political motives.

Rivalry between cycling teams of the same country is not uncommon, for example in the past there existed great rivalry between Panasonic and Kwantum (two Dutch teams) and that resulted in a great number of unnecessary defeats of cyclers of both teams.

And I also remember a number of cases that Belgian cyclers ruined each others chances. And in those cases the grudges were also not politically motivated.

Therefore I doubt its the case here. But of course I can be wrong.

But in this case it wasn't two teams from the same country, and the basque situation is allways a special case. There was a moment when they showed a close up of both of them, and you could catch a few sounds, and although it was hard to understand, it looked as if they were insulting each other. Egoi Martinez is a new comer at this stage, and unless Flecha stole his girlfriend a while ago, I'd still say it was because one was a non-basque spanish and the other a basque.

Btw, does anyone else think (El Sop lives in Spain, so maybe he could also provide a hint) that today political grudges ruined the stage for Flecha and Martinez? Martinez is basque from an all basque team, and to me it seemed obvious that not only he'd never reach an agreement with his spanish countryman, but he actually did everything to wuin Flecha's chances.

Now that you say it... I wondered also why Martinez let Montcoutie easily go, but watched Flecha like a guard dog during this.

Btw, does anyone else think (El Sop lives in Spain, so maybe he could also provide a hint) that today political grudges ruined the stage for Flecha and Martinez? Martinez is basque from an all basque team, and to me it seemed obvious that not only he'd never reach an agreement with his spanish countryman, but he actually did everything to wuin Flecha's chances.
And with this, it is the second stage that Euskaltel looses the chance to win right in end, after the one last Tuesday.
I'm working, so I saw nothing of today's race (in fact, I have seen just about 15 minutes so far of the whole tour this year...) and wouldn't know what was the matter. Although there is always a healthy rivalry between the Basques (or the Catalans, or other regions ;) ) and the rest of Spain, I would doubt it was really political. I'd guess it was more something on the line of what AVN said. So basically I don't know, but if I find something in the Spanish media I'll let you know.

Although there is always a healthy rivalry between the Basques (or the Catalans, or other regions ;) ) and the rest of Spain, I would doubt it was really political.

Healthy rivalry? Curious adjective you use there...

Healthy rivalry? Curious adjective you use there...
Curious? Oh well, surely there are people with an unhealthy rivalry (aka ETA) but it is not as if the majority of Basque people are terrorist radicals. Like everywhere, the moderate majority is overshadowed by relatively few extremists.
And, while I don't know him, it's difficult to think of somebody called "Martinez" as a Basque radical :hmm:.

Man, Ullrich didn't look too hot today. It'll be interesting to see what today took
out of Armstrong...

Ullrich was very disappointing. Maybe Kloden is his predecessor... Anyway, Armstrong has done some good business today.

12th stage (16th July):

1st: Ivan Basso - 5
2nd: Lance Armstrong - 3
3rd: Andreas Klöden - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 12):

Elsaak - 67
Rik Meleet - 45
Serutan - 45
Gumby78 - 37
Hitro - 28
MCdread - 24
-Oblivion- - 23
Darkness - 23
El Sop - 23
Womens Lib - 20
SanPellegrino - 19
addiv - 18
prettyvacant - 18
MrPresident - 14
AVN - 11
Inter32 - 10

I'm gonna be away for the weekend and will only update the next scores when I get back.

About today: everyone of the favourites cracked, except Basso, but he won't trouble Armstrong in the TT I think. It is obvious that it isn't the same explosive Armstrong of 3 or 4 years ago, but he showed today that he's still a step above the others, or maybe, looking at the disappointing performances of Ullrich and Hamilton, maybe these were the ones that stepped down...
Great to see Klöden though, he finally lives up to the potential people thought he had when he debuted at the highest level a few years ago.

Oh, and don't you think that Ullrich should have signed with CSC instead, and work with a young and inovative coach like Riis, even if they didn't pay so well? Godefroot seems to have lost the plot a while ago.

My prediction now (after today's stage) : Armstrong will win this Tour.

[B]
Oh, and don't you think that Ullrich should have signed with CSC instead, and work with a young and inovative coach like Riis, even if they didn't pay so well? Godefroot seems to have lost the plot a while ago.

There's no doubt that Riis is an excellent coach; and he probably could
have helped Ullrich. Or Tyler Hamilton, for that matter.

I'm gonna be away for the weekend and will only update the next scores when I get back.

About today: everyone of the favourites cracked, except Basso, but he won't trouble Armstrong in the TT I think. It is obvious that it isn't the same explosive Armstrong of 3 or 4 years ago, but he showed today that he's still a step above the others, or maybe, looking at the disappointing performances of Ullrich and Hamilton, maybe these were the ones that stepped down...
Great to see Klöden though, he finally lives up to the potential people thought he had when he debuted at the highest level a few years ago.

Oh, and don't you think that Ullrich should have signed with CSC instead, and work with a young and inovative coach like Riis, even if they didn't pay so well? Godefroot seems to have lost the plot a while ago.

I agree with your conclusions :)

And enjoy this weekend :)

Ullrich was very disappointing. Maybe Kloden is his predecessor... Anyway, Armstrong has done some good business today.

I think you mean successor.

Caught the end of the race only. Seemed to me that Lance A was trying really hard to win to make his point but couldnt. he must have been feeling strong; but Basso was stronger.

Ullrich is obviously suffering from the kiss of death that being in Team Vacant this year is. He had a bad day but perhaps didnt lose too much to come back again. He needs hot sunny days. If the weather continues as it is he is lost. I am not giving up on him just yet, although he is drinking in the last chance saloon.

I think you mean successor.

Caught the end of the race only. Seemed to me that Lance A was trying really hard to win to make his point but couldnt. he must have been feeling strong; but Basso was stronger.



Maybe. But the fact that he stayed on Basso's wheel to the end (and
so got the same finish time) tells me that it's more likely he was conserving
some energy for tomorrow's stage, whose profile looks lethal, rather than
sprinting against Basso for the stage win. Also, I'm also not sure that
Basso went all out at the end, either. Wouldn't it be interesting if
it turns out that Lance's biggest challengers turn out to be Basso and Kloden?

Speaking of Kloden, the announcers were speculating that T-Mobile might
designate him the team leader now. What are they saying in Europe about
that?

Speaking of Kloden, the announcers were speculating that T-Mobile might
designate him the team leader now. What are they saying in Europe about
that?

Ullrich said that he would ride for Klöden if he is better. He really means it, he is the type that would be glad to lift the responsibility from his shoulders. like last year, no pressure and he did quite well. I guess it will decide tomorrow on the 13th stage, until now Klöden is called the "joker" from the team management.

But I don't think Klöden or someone can beat Armstrong now.

I just have a slightly off-topic question to ask you very quickly. :D

Could you explain me the jerseys ?

The yellow jersey is worn by the current leader of the tour. The Polka-Dot jersey is worn by the best climber. But what about the green jersey and the white jersey ?

The Tour is over. Armstrong did well, but the rest was dissapointing (except for a couple of riders that can't threaten Armstrong in a time trial).

By the way: Klöden is only 1 year younger than Ullrich. He just took very long to reach this level, after winning Paris-Nice in 2001.

@Marla

The green jersey is for the points competition. This is decided by the intermediate sprints during the race, and the order at the finishing line. This is basically the sprinters Jersey. Basically it has been McEwen and O'Grady fighting over that, although Zabel may be close, not sure.

The white jersey is the young rider's jersey, for the young rider in the highest position in the tour. This happens to be Voeckler who has the yellow and the white.

The Tour is over. Armstrong did well, but the rest was dissapointing (except for a couple of riders that can't threaten Armstrong in a time trial).


Remember that in 1998, Pantani couldn't threaten Ullrich in a time trial.
But he won the Tour on the basis of one climb. So it's not impossible.

Sure it's not impossible. But Armstrong is as strong as in his best days. Pantani was a better climber than any rider in this tour, except maybe Armstrong and Mayo. But Mayo lost yesterday and never made a convincing impression.

More devestation to the peloton today! And Voeckler just holds on to yellow.
Ullrich looks like toast now; even if he gets into better form, I think he's
conceded too much time now. Would seem to be between Armstrong,
Basso, and maybe Kloner now, with advantage to Armstrong.

The Tour is over. Armstrong did well, but the rest was dissapointing (except for a couple of riders that can't threaten Armstrong in a time trial).

Like I said. Basso doesn't seem to be willing or able to attack Armstrong and he will lose 4 minutes in the time trials.

Great great effort by Voeckler!

@Aggie - You're probably right, but I'm still hoping that things will get really competitive
in stages 15-19.

EDIT : And Voeckler definitely deserves congrats for his efforts the last
two days.

Ugh, Menchov is out.
Zubeldia and Hamilton are gone too. Not on my list however, unlike Menchov.

Did Mayo quit in the end?
Its been a long time, and after 24 minutes he still wasn't in..

Heras in 21 minutes after Armstrong is a shocker. Couldn't quite believe it.
I'm hoping Basso will provide some competition..
Totschning should do alright on the two time trial.

Mayo made it. He was 37 minutes behind. Totschnig is not a time trial expert. He should be able to do well on Alpe d'Huez, but normally he is weaker than Armstrong. And he will lose for sure in the other time trial.

Pevenage (personal manager of Ullrich) said it well. Totschnig performed as expected, but that only shows how weak Ullrich was. This is a very strange and dissapointing Tour :( I don't mind if Armstrong wins, but I don't like boring competitions.

It does kind of seem disappointing that the year someone will most likely get to 6 consecutive TDFs is also one of the most boring competitions...

Hm, not really. The only exciting bit was wether L.A. could do it again, since there was some serious doubt about that. And Ullrich seemed to be in good shape. It's the usual chatter of sports journalists who have nothing decent to talk about: everyone knows that it's not important to perform well in the classics to win a tour.

A truely good cyclist does both, that's wrong with Armstrong in the eyes of a lot of conservative cyclist fans.

This year might be a bit dull, since it seems there's no one who can attack in the mountains. But previous seasons where just about the same, last season aside (when armstrong made some mistakes). The tours in which Indurain reigned could be called dull as well.

Isn't Totschnig the Austrian Time Trial Champion Aggie? (As impressive a title this is)

Mayo? 37 minutes behind on a mountain stage? Those words don't go together. But i guess the pace over the first 12 stages really gassed Heras and Mayo.

I would rather Armstrong didn't win. I don't like the fact that he only rides the tour. Its not truly impressive if he is the first to win the tour 6 times, as all the cyclists who won it 5 times cycled in other races as well..

Yes, he beat Luttenberger by 5 seconds. Also a climber ;) Totschnig managed to get Time Trial top 10 places in the Giro and top 20 places in the Tour. But that is not really what's needed to scare Armstrong.

This year might be a bit dull, since it seems there's no one who can attack in the mountains. But previous seasons where just about the same, last season aside (when armstrong made some mistakes). The tours in which Indurain reigned could be called dull as well.

Yes, the Indurain years were really dull, because at least Armstrong wins
road stages, which IIRC Indurain did not do the years he won the Tour.

The irony of this year to me is that the Tour organizers put all the mountiains
and individual time trials at the end to create excitement but, barring
a serious mistake/incident/illness/accident, the Tour seems to be all
but over now. And without an all-out attack by anyone...

Belgian reporter: "Lance, are you expecting an attack of Basso?"
Lance: "No"
Belgian reporter: "Why do you think that?"
Lance: "Well...I just know"

There are rumours that Baso will ride for the team of Armstrong next year :( And Basso and Armstrong are friends. Please Basso, show some courage and go for the Tour win!

Armstrong bought Basso with the win saturday. Basso didn't look stronger than Armstrong, so I guess L.A. is pretty confident he can beat him again. Basso would be stupid if he'd try, since it'd probably be a waste of energy. At least, that's what Armstrong'll think.

And Basso isn't as good as a time trialist as Armstrong is.

There are rumours that Baso will ride for the team of Armstrong next year :( And Basso and Armstrong are friends. Please Basso, show some courage and go for the Tour win!

Idle hope I think. They seem to get along fine. They are good friends. My guess is that Basso will simply follow Armstrong to gain time on the others for a buffer in the TT, so he can end up second. I doubt he's good enough to take on Armstrong, but I doubt even more that he wants to.

About that rumour. I seriously doubt that. Why would Basso become Armstrongs helper, when he's already the big man in a very strong CSC team?
Armstrong reportedly wanted him to join US Postal last winter, but he went to CSC. Why would he give up the chance to ride for his own success now that he seems to really hit the peak of his own abilities?

Didn't we all "know" Indurain would win his 6th tour? That year he became 14th. Didn't we all know Greece wouldn't get to the quarter-finals of Euro 2004 ??

I just hope L.A. gets a bad day and looses some minutes. If that happens, all is unsure again and still we don't "know" who will win TDF 2004. No-one expects Voeckler to do well in the TT, but why not? The yellow jersey gives people wings and he is in a good form. If L.A. gets a bad day; I seriously doubt he can ride Voeckler out of the yellow.

I agree with much of what has been said. Armstrong has pretty much the 6th win on the bag. Now he only as to control it, and not even a tight control is needed. Basso is the closest, but unless Lance cracks or crashes, Basso will not smell the yellow jersey. First of all, maybe not even himself thought that he could get a 2nd place finish so "easily", so it is already a great victory. He doesn't believe he an beat Armstrong, so he won't even try to attack. He'll follow him and work with him to remove time from the guys behind, that's what has happened so far. Mancebo is in the same situation. These guys didn't come to the Tour to win it, thus so far it has been great. The guys that started with the yellow as an objective are now either at home or too far to be in contention again. Of course, it would be even greater for Basso to win the Tour and be known as the guy who broke Armstrong's supreme rule in the Tour, the same way his DS was the guy that dethroned Indurain...
Another reason why I think he won't try anything or very little is because I don't regard Basso as an attacker. If you watch his stages this year and the two years before, you'll see that he never did it. His high places all came following the best in the mountains. Besides, no matter how much he trained the TT with Riis in the winter, I still can't see him loosing less than 2:30 or 3 minutes in the last TT, so this means he has to put 4 or 5 minutes to Armsrong in the Alpes, which is a bit unrealistic...

I think that there is a very high chance of Armstrong quiting cycling after this Tour, and that's how I see the rumours of Basso joining Postal (Discovery Channel Team after next year btw), which probably won't happen anyway, because he's surely staying at CSC. If Lance does abandon cycling, it will be interesting to see what will the american team do after that. So far Bruyneel is the most fortunate DS in the péloton. His sponsor only wants the Tour de France, and the rest of the year is just for training. But how will americans and an american sponsor react when there is no american rider capable of winning the only race that they care about?...

I think that there is a very high chance of Armstrong quiting cycling after this Tour, and that's how I see the rumours of Basso joining Postal (Discovery Channel Team after next year btw), which probably won't happen anyway, because he's surely staying at CSC. If Lance does abandon cycling, it will be interesting to see what will the american team do after that. So far Bruyneel is the most fortunate DS in the péloton. His sponsor only wants the Tour de France, and the rest of the year is just for training. But how will americans and an american sponsor react when there is no american rider capable of winning the only race that they care about?...

An excellent question. I too had thought that Armstrong
would quit after this year. But I have a feeling that
Discovery picked up sponsorship on the condition that
Lance stay on another year (which is an answer of sorts
to your question). This feeling is reinforced by an episode
of "The Lance Chronicles" (an OLN TV documentary of Lance's off season). Lance's remarks at the announcement
of Discovery's taking over sponsorship indicated that he
would be back next year.

An excellent question. I too had thought that Armstrong
would quit after this year. But I have a feeling that
Discovery picked up sponsorship on the condition that
Lance stay on another year (which is an answer of sorts
to your question). This feeling is reinforced by an episode
of "The Lance Chronicles" (an OLN TV documentary of Lance's off season). Lance's remarks at the announcement
of Discovery's taking over sponsorship indicated that he
would be back next year.

Really? Maybe I tried to read too much on some of his remarks in the post-stage interview the other day. When he said he wouldn't go to the Olympics and replied to a question of what he'd be doing after this Tour: "I'm gonna go home, stay with my kids and rest". Besides, Sheryl Crow has been in every Tour stage, and I heard that she's about to record an album, and I expected that Armstrong would just finish in syle with a 6th consecutive win and enjoy what his victory over cancer gave him the opportunity to do: life.

If he continues, I don't think he's going to win next year: he'll be almost 34, and his rivals can't come to the race as badly as they have all been this year. Besides, the 6th win was the mytical mark. There's not much else to do in the Tour for him after that...

Really? ... I expected that Armstrong would just finish in syle with a 6th consecutive win and enjoy what his victory over cancer gave him the opportunity to do: life.

If he continues, I don't think he's going to win next year: he'll be almost 34, and his rivals can't come to the race as badly as they have all been this year. Besides, the 6th win was the mytical mark. There's not much else to do in the Tour for him after that...

Agreed. If he wins, he should quit while he's ahead. But he wouldn't be
the first nor the last athlete who didn't know when to quit.

Oh yes, I saw on the BBC website that Basso was talking of attacking
during the next week. It also seemed he hedged that promise a bit.
Anyone else seen anything?

I saw on the Dutch TV a while ago (at the start of the season I believe) that Armstrong would probably continue after a 6th Tour win. He would then focus on other big races, like the classics, and not ride the Tour anymore. He also said that he would like to help Hincapie in Paris - Roubaix. I'm interested to see if he will do this.

Mayo out.

5 down, 4 to go... I start wondering whether I'll finish this Tour with any rider in my team.
Is there a special prize for the one finishing with the least riders?

Is there a special prize for the one finishing with the least riders?

I guess there isn't a special price :)

But I have to say that quite a number of favourites for this Tour (for example Ullrich, Mayo, Petacchi, maybe even Cippolini) have performed very badly.

I guess a new generation of riders will become important in this Tour and the Tours of the following years. And that doesn't need to be a bad thing.

OMG what dope is der Jan on today?

He shows a lot of courage and Klöden is probably going to attack if they get Ullrich back. Great show!!

But Voeckler is KO now.

Poor show by CSC, imo they should've let US Postal do all the work.

Landis was breaking, but then Voigt helped out. That was not clever, unless they ride for the 2nd place and see Ullrich as a threat for that. And that would be very bad for the Tour :(

I also think they were playing for the overall team classification. T-Mobile was first and CSC second, and this way CSC (last year's winner) is now in first place. It also shows that it is more likely to see Basso and Armstrong working together to guarantee their positions than see Basso and CSC attacking US Postal.

13th stage (17th July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Ivan Basso - 3
3rd: Georg Totshnig - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


14th stage (18th July):

1st: Aitor Gonzalez - 5
2nd: Nicolas Jalabert - 3
3rd: Christophe Mengin - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


15th stage (20th July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Ivan Basso - 3
3rd: Jan Ullrich - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 15):

Elsaak - 86
Serutan - 60
Rik Meleet - 51
Gumby78 - 47
Hitro - 35
-Oblivion- - 26
Womens Lib - 26
MCdread - 25
Darkness - 24
MrPresident - 24
El Sop - 23
addiv - 22
prettyvacant - 22
SanPellegrino - 20
AVN - 13
Inter32 - 10

The Team competition is a joke compared to the only thing that counts. Winning the Tour. But I guess that they are all in it for the money. I'm cheering for T-Mobile now!

13th stage (17th July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Ivan Basso - 3
3rd: Georg Totshnig - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


14th stage (18th July):

1st: Aitor Gonzalez - 5
2nd: Nicolas Jalabert - 3
3rd: Christophe Mengin - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


15th stage (20th July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Ivan Basso - 3
3rd: Jan Ullrich - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Thomas Voeckler - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 15):

Elsaak - 86
Serutan - 60
Rik Meleet - 51
Gumby78 - 47
Hitro - 35
-Oblivion- - 26
Womens Lib - 26
MCdread - 25
Darkness - 24
MrPresident - 24
El Sop - 23
addiv - 22
prettyvacant - 22
SanPellegrino - 20
addiv - 13
Inter32 - 10

Im not in the list anymore :sad:

McDread, why did you disqualify me ?

Addiv is in there twice, that might have something to do with it... :mischief:

Addiv is in there twice, that might have something to do with it... :mischief:


Very observant space :goodjob: . I've been lurking for post from you,
have not seen any lately :scan: :confused: . Hope you are well :D .
Regards, Greg

Great attack from Ullrich, at least he showed that he can fight. Too bad US Postal and CSC will work together the rest of the tour.

btw, Armstrong taking the win AND getting yellow while sucking himself up the hill behind Ullrich and Klöden is considered very bad manners in cycling. this will not help to improve his already low popularity in the peloton.

Armstrong didn't show bad manners (EDIT: Don't forget, there are bonification seconds on the line for the first 3 and Basso and Klöden would have taken them otherwise). What CSC did, that is frowned upon.

Armstrong didn't show bad manners (EDIT: Don't forget, there are bonification seconds on the line for the first 3 and Basso and Klöden would have taken them otherwise). What CSC did, that is frowned upon.

CSCs tactic is, although fearful and defensive, understandable. Armstrongs behaviour is not excusable, that is why he was booed at the ceremony, they put the music louder but you could still hear it.

I totally disagree. Klöden tried to prepare the sprint for Ullrich, but Ullrich just wasn't strong enough. If CSC would be cycling for the first place of Basso, they would have let Armstrong chase Ullrich. A weaker US Postal would also be good for Basso. But Armstrong not only has US Postal, but also CSC to trust. I wonder what deal those two teams made :(

France is booing Armstrong for 4 years already. Nothing new here.

But Armstrong not only has US Postal, but also CSC to trust. I wonder what deal those two teams made :(

France is booing Armstrong for 4 years already. Nothing new here.

I have to agree with you on this one.
Unfortunately :(

But Armstrong not only has US Postal, but also CSC to trust. I wonder what deal those two teams made :(


sadly you are right :( I guess the deal is to help Armstrong winning in exchange for 2nd. not really great fighting spirit at CSC. Basso seems to be Belokis natural successor.

France is booing Armstrong for 4 years already. Nothing new here.

but the people don't boo everytime he is at the ceremony. they booed today because his behaviour was considered unsportsmanlike.

I don't understand why Klöden was making the pace. I think he is the faster sprinter (faster than Ullrich). He already showed it this Tour.

I don't understand why Klöden was making the pace. I think he is the faster sprinter (faster than Ullrich). He already showed it this Tour.

guess you are right, but he is not the face in the commercials ;)

but the people don't boo everytime he is at the ceremony. they booed today because his behaviour was considered unsportsmanlike.But what wrong did Armstrong do? It was CSC's decision to protect the 2nd place and thus help Armstrong (a revolting decision by CSC BTW). Is Armstrong booed for sprinting and trying to win the stage ?

Is Armstrong booed for sprinting and trying to win the stage ?

yes, because he just stayed behind and did nothing at the hill AND got yellow today. (usually the rider who gets yellow at a breakaway lets another rider win)

Armstrong has been booed the complete tour. He was booed whenever he climbed the podium. I highly doubt that this had anything to do with it. There was nothing wrong in his actions. I don't know where you got this info from SanPellegrino. The German commentators?

Imho is absolute nonsense to let others win a stage like this, allowing them to gain time (1st place gives a bonus of 20 seconds, 2nd 12 and 3rd 8 iirc).

Since 2000 Armstrong is followed by the French press. They suspect that he is using doping. That and his way of handling the French press makes him highly unpopular. The way that the French are treating him is a disgrace for cycling and a bad example of how to behave as cycling fan. I dread tomorrow. Although probably 50% of the spectators will be Dutch, Armstrong will have a very hard time on the climb.

Armstrong has been booed the complete tour. He was booed whenever he climbed the podium. I highly doubt that this had anything to do with it. There was nothing wrong in his actions. I don't know where you got this info from SanPellegrino. The German commentators?.

I will not deny that I have Ullrich in my team in this competition here and that the german commentators were biased, but the unwritten rules in cycling are a bit different than those in other sports and I think the (international) press tomorrow will show that many people saw it as an insult to fairplay.

@SanPellegrino - Good thing you added the qualifier about the
press. Not a peep over here about Lance making a nonkosher
move. I won't actually see it until tonight (for some reason my
employer frowns on watching the TDF at work :D), but it didn't
seem to me that he did anything wrong, but I am also *very*
ignorant of the unwritten rules you mention...

1.200.000 people expected tomorrow on l'Alpe Hollandais!

Stapel, you will probably be there ;)

Stapel, you will probably be there ;)

I spent all my days off in Portugal

I did once climb l'Alpe d'Huez.

With the FIAT ;) !

btw, why is it that so many dutch are in Alpe d'Huez? does it originate from the days of Zoetemelk?

The Dutch have won this stage 8 times between 1977 and 1989 (Zoetemelk 2x, Kuiper 2x, Winnen 2x, Rooks and Theunisse). To us it felt like our mountain as it seemed like we won it every year. So even though we haven't been close since then, the Alpe remains the highest mountain of Holland one day in a year :) It's these victories that sparked my interest in cycling and I always dreamt to climb it myself (like a lot of Dutch have).

thx, that leaves another question: how did the flat land manage to bear so many climbers? :)

@AVN: I disqualified you because you were the first in my plot to eliminate all the competitors so that I can win in the end. But now I notice you were already behind me. I should have picked someone from above. Damn!

@AVN: I disqualified you because you were the first in my plot to eliminate all the competitors so that I can win in the end. But now I notice you were already behind me. I should have picked someone from above. Damn!

Thanks for the explanation and the correction :)

And yes I know that my predictions for this Tour weren't very good :)
(hmmm, the same can be said from last year's tour, fortunately I have better results at the stock exchange :))

...but I am also *very* ignorant of the unwritten rules you mention...

San Pellegrino has a point that during a stage there are possibilities to make deals. This isn't immediately unsportsmanlike behaviour. Suppose that two rider get 10 minutes from a peleton in a flat stage. One of them can grab the yellow when it stays that way, but he's also the best sprinter. The other rider would have no reason to continue to work hard. He would only help the sprinter and the 10 minutes won't help him in any way, because he isn't a climber. Yellow is worth more than a stage in the Tour, especially for people that aren't called Armstrong or Ullrich. The sprinter can in these cases make a deal: I get the yellow, you get the stage. By doing this the sprinter increases the chances of success. Having to ride on your own is far more difficult than with two.

During this Tour there was the famous stage in which Voeckler could win the yellow (which he did). That didn't stop him from trying to win the stage. I only heard cheering from the crowd when he got the yellow, and rightly so.

But if you look at the Armstrong - T-Mobile situation yesterday than this is not comparable to my example. All of them had reasons to make the pace. Several riders were not with them and they could all gain time on them (Totschnig, Mancebo, others). Added to that: Klöden hardly did anything in this stage and Ullrich attacked. Why would Armstrong have to let Ullrich or Klöden win in this case?

thx, that leaves another question: how did the flat land manage to bear so many climbers? :)

What many climbers? :rolleyes:

I thought Armastrong was being booed because the french don't want an american to win the tour 6 times..

The Dutch have won this stage 8 times between 1977 and 1989 (Zoetemelk 2x, Kuiper 2x, Winnen 2x, Rooks and Theunisse). To us it felt like our mountain as it seemed like we won it every year. So even though we haven't been close since then, the Alpe remains the highest mountain of Holland one day in a year :) It's these victories that sparked my interest in cycling and I always dreamt to climb it myself (like a lot of Dutch have).
Also Erik Breukink had the record for the fastest climb for quite some years, until Pantani took it iirc.

The Alp simply gives a thrill, seeing all the names in the turns.

I am confident that there will be a new generation in the future, that will reconquer the Alp!

That's a common misconception, brought into the world by unknowing reporters like Mart Smeets. Breukink was the fastest in that year (42'30"), but this was by far not the fastest time ever. Pantini's record now appears to be 37'30". But I haven't checked that.

I agree that the Alp is magical. But I have the same with the Mont Ventoux and the Galibier.

I thought Armastrong was being booed because the french don't want an american to win the tour 6 times..It is posible, but unlikely and not in tone with history. Armstrong started winning the tour the year (or 2 years) after then infamous "Tour Dopage". The French claim that no-one who has had cancer and recovered can be so strong without doping. Ever since Armstrong got back on his bike he is constantly harassed by (some of) the French Media and (some of) the French public. It would be strange Armstrong is now booed for something else.

I agree that the Alp is magical. But I have the same with the Mont Ventoux and the Galibier.

Yep, and I can add a few other mountains, for example the Aubisque, Aspin, Tourmalet and the Peyresourde.

For some reason, I can't explain, I consider these great mountains in the Pyrenees of greater value. IMHO they have been more important/deciding in previous tours.

That's a common misconception, brought into the world by unknowing reporters like Mart Smeets.

I guess you are right on this one.
But I have to say that I appreciate Mart Smeets much more as a commentator than the current commentators on the television we have :(

And we can't view Sporza (the sport channel of the Belgian TV, they have much better reporters) :(

I guess you are right on this one.
But I have to say that I appreciate Mart Smeets much more as a commentator than the current commentators on the television we have :(

And we can't view Sporza (the sport channel of the Belgian TV, they have much better reporters) :(

Mart Smeets does what I, and many other like: Romantising sports. Just think of Theo Koomen........

Today we have Herbert Dijkstra, who is simply wrong in almost anything he sais. And not because he exagerates things, but because he doesn't know anything about cycling......

The best example was on 'quattorze julliet' 2002. 1. Kroon, Knaven Dekker....

There is a groupe ahead with 7 or 8 cyclists or so. I think it was Sebastien Hinault (iirc) who leaves the group. Dekker jumps to him immediately. Kroon is easy :cool: .

-Dijkstra: They are away now, whe Dekker takes over, they should be able to stay away!
-Breukink: ..........
-Breukink: ..........
-Breukink: sigh
-Breukink: ..........
-Breukink: ..........
-Breukink: Of course Dekker should keep his legs unmoved now.
-Dijkstra: huh?

Just a second later, Dekker stops doing anything.

Dijkstra really knows nothing about cycling tactics....

But I have to say that I appreciate Mart Smeets much more as a commentator than the current commentators on the television we have :(

And we can't view Sporza (the sport channel of the Belgian TV, they have much better reporters) :(

I couldn't agree more :(

Regarding the mountains: The Pyrenees are absolutely great. But no French col is as difficult as the Galibier. Odly enough the climbs in Italy are a lot more difficult (steeper).

I agree with the Tourmalet and the Aubisque, but the Aspin is heavily overrated and the Peyresourde is just an average 1st categorie col. Point is that in the Pyrenees they often have 7 cols in a stage, while the Alpes only have 3. Reason obviously is that the Alpes have longer climbs. It depends on the profile of the stage, but you can really crush the opponent in the Alpes. Sadly the stage of tomorrow has the hardest climbs at the start :(

EDIT: Stapel, AVN: Let's demonize Dijkstra ;)

Lance Armstrong est le vrai roi du montagne!

1 minute a Jan Ullrich.....

Sadly the stage of tomorrow has the hardest climbs at the start :(

Would one of the cycling experts here explain why the hard ones werent left to the end?

I don't know prettyvacant. But it probably has something to do with which cities pay the most to get a stage. It still can be a great stage because there is a 1st categorie climb near the end. Especially when T-Mobile attacks on the 1st or 2nd tough climb. If that happens it could be a monumental stage (for the 2nd place, Armstrong is too strong). But I doubt it. CSC and US-Postal probably have enough time to close a gap before the last ascent. Added to that, the stage doesn't end on a climb.

Armstrong didn't break the record of Pantani. But he was close. It was probably not possible because of the crowd. And I guess it's easier to set a record in a normal stage, where you have help of others the first kilometers.

Basso didn't look good and Mancebo is going to break. He wasn't riding well yesterday and today was even worse. It can be an interesting battle for 2nd place between Basso, Klöden and Ullrich. Voeckler has to fear that he loses the white yersey to Casar (best young rider).

16th stage (21st July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Jan Ullrich - 3
3rd: Andreas Klöden - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 16):

Elsaak - 92
Serutan - 64
Gumby78 - 55
Rik Meleet - 53
Hitro - 40
MrPresident - 32
MCdread - 28
Womens Lib - 28
Darkness - 27
-Oblivion- - 26
addiv - 25
prettyvacant - 25
El Sop - 23
SanPellegrino -23
AVN - 16
Inter32 - 10

Armstrong didn't break the record of Pantani. But he was close. It was probably not possible because of the crowd. And I guess it's easier to set a record in a normal stage, where you have help of others the first kilometers.



Is that official? I would have said that it was close, because there were 2 km on flat road before the start of the climb that obviously, aren't included in Pantani's time. I think it's easier to break it in a TT, because you don't have the weight of 200 km in your legs and other climbs, and you just have to give all you have in a single climb.

Today Armstrong showed that he has no rival. What a performance! Ullrich was okay too, but I think he brought himself too much extra-effort by riding with the "extensor" (don't know the english word), but I guess it is his way of riding, and he's too old to change to a more lighter gear, higher cadence style.

It was not official no :) Armstrong's time was 39'41" and he needed 2'07" for the first flat 1.5 km. So that makes 37"34". It's very close. Pantani broke the record in a flat stage of 140 km with a finish on Alpe d'Huez.

EDIT: Marco needed 37'35". So now the question is: are these times counted over the same distance?

I'm reding somewhere else that Pantani still holds it with only 1 second less.

Yes, Armstrong was 2 seconds faster on the flat part than I stated it seems.

Well, It's going to be interesting to see what happens tomorrow. I'd guess that
CSC will attack, since it looks like Basso might have trouble holding on to a podium
position if he doesn't put more time into Kloden & Ullrich.

I'd like to ask SanPellegrino (or anyone else who watches it in Germany) if he has heard the ARD commentary two days ago. What did they say about Voigt that sparked those idiotic traitor calls yesterday?

I usually watch Eurosport and thus didn't hear it.

Armstrong won today's stage. Again! He didn't let Klöden win. Armstrong must have been thinking about the German supporters on the Alpe d'Huez. They appear to have been schandalous.

I'd like to ask SanPellegrino (or anyone else who watches it in Germany) if he has heard the ARD commentary two days ago. What did they say about Voigt that sparked those idiotic traitor calls yesterday?

I usually watch Eurosport and thus didn't hear it.

I watch Eurosport too, but this (http://tour.ard.de/tour2004/tdf/aktuell/aktuell_kw30/voigt_ard.jhtml) was on the ARD homepage today

I really don't understand how anyone can blame Voigt, even more scandalous was the ZDF going off when Voigt made some remarks about the commentators.

Armstrong won today's stage. Again! He didn't let Klöden win. Armstrong must have been thinking about the German supporters on the Alpe d'Huez. They appear to have been schandalous.

That, or he's simply decided to be Ming the Merciless.
I'm pretty sure he would have let Landis win, but no
one else.

Yup SanPellegrino. I noticed that they were VERY careful today (ARD).

And the German supporters didn't only do this to Voigt, but also McEwen (who has the Green yersey which should 'belong' to Zabel) and Amstrong.

And the German supporters didn't only do this to Voigt, but also McEwen (who has the Green yersey which should 'belong' to Zabel) and Amstrong.
Didn't hear anything about that. I heard about French "fans" spitting on Armstrong.

When it comes to McEwen, there has been quite alot of bad press for him (not unjustified, apparently) concerning his behaviour after the fall involving Haselbacher.

The Belgian and Dutch TV was very clear about the German supporters. The French were bad as well. I'm not going to say here that German fans are terrible. The Basques in the Pyrenees also scared Armstrong. This apparently is what you get in a highly popular race where the stakes are high. There are no stakes for the Dutch and Belgian riders, so their supporters can be more relaxed about it...

EDIT: Haselbacher has a bad name. He often is responsible for crashes. This may not have been the case in that particular event, but the tensions were high in the first week and they all were nervous. That doesn't mean that McEwen behaved like he should.

I am glad that nothing happened on Alpe d'Huez, german or french fans aside, it was very risky to drive trough those masses.

I am glad that nothing happened on Alpe d'Huez, german or french fans aside, it was very risky to drive trough those masses.
Yeah, even more so than usual. I have to agree with Armstrong that the whole mountain time trial is no good idea.

Today's win was called 'Because he Can' by Armstrong's coach. Too bad for Kloden - looks like Basso will take 2nd.

Question : Does anyone know anything about the defamation
suit against Armstrong? Heard about it in the context of
his temporarily joining the escape this morning...

Question : Does anyone know anything about the defamation
suit against Armstrong? Heard about it in the context of
his temporarily joining the escape this morning...

you mean the suit Simeoni made? He was the only one accusing Dr. Ferrari at the hearings and therefore LA called him a liar, that is why Simeoni sued him.

@SanPellegrino - Thanks. The US coverage of the TDF
has really downplayed anything negative to do with
Armstrong (doping allegations, negative fan reactions,
etc.). This of course can't have anything at all to do with
the fact that OLN is a minor sponsor of Lance's team...
:rolleyes:

Heard about it in the context of
his temporarily joining the escape this morning...

I only get it now that I read it on a cycling site, didn't saw the stage today, there was a breakaway and Armstrong got them back because Simeoni was in the group! of course Simeoni is no contender for GC, so from a sport perspective it was more than unnecessary for Armstrong to do it. He just did it for revenge :eek:

Yes, it was pretty petty of Lance to do that.

Sorry to see Voeckler lose the white jersey. Mildly surprised to see Basso hold on
to the podium. After the time he lost on Alpe d'Huez, on what should have been
favorable terrain, I thought he might get absolutely trashed today.

I have to give a hearty :thumbsup: to all involved in the TDF. Once again, one of the most well organized athletic events in the world. The logistics, sportsmanship, professionalism, and competitiveness of all involved is to be commended.

Let's hope Athens can be one-tenth as organized. Which I doubt. :rolleyes:

17th stage (22nd July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Andreas Klöden - 3
3rd: Jan Ullrich - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


18th stage (23rd July):

1st: Juan Miguel Mercado - 5
2nd: José Garcia Acosta - 3
3rd: Dmitri Fofonov - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


19th stage (24th July):

1st: Lance Armstrong - 5
2nd: Jan Ullrich - 3
3rd: Andreas Klöden - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Thomas Voeckler - 1


Standings (after stage 19):

Elsaak - 105
Serutan - 76
Gumby78 - 74
Rik Meleet - 59
MrPresident - 51
Hitro - 50
Womens Lib - 34
MCdread - 32
Darkness - 31
addiv - 29
prettyvacant - 29
SanPellegrino - 27
-Oblivion- - 26
El Sop - 23
AVN - 20
Inter32 - 10

Yikes! I think Robbie's going to have to win the stage tomorrow for me to hold
off Gumby...

Bah, hasn't been a good tour for my team. Petacchi disappointing, O'Grady no green jersey for the mountains, Mayo very poor, and the rest didn't earn me many points..

C'mon Boonen tomorrow :D
Or O'Grady, either is good.

my team was also disappointing, and the worst is I lost vs my GF, imagine what I will hear the next weeks...

Huzzah! Boonen managed to win it. Gives me 5 points :D
I had Merckx and Jalabert in the breakaway too.

20th stage (25th July):

1st: Tom Boonen - 5
2nd: Jean-Patrick Nazon - 3
3rd: Danilo Hondo - 1


Jerseys:

Yellow: Lance Armstrong - 3
Green: Robbie McEwen - 2
Polka-Dot: Richard Virenque - 2
White: Vladimir Karpets - 1


General Classification:

1st: Lance Armstrong - 20
2nd: Andreas Klöden - 15
3rd: Ivan Basso - 10
4th: Jan Ullrich - 8
5th: José Azevedo - 6
6th: Francisco Mancebo - 5
7th: Georg Totschnig - 4
8th: Carlos Sastre - 3
9th: Levi Leipheimer - 2
10th: Oscar Pereiro - 1


Jerseys - winners:

Green: Robbie McEwen - 8
Polka Dot: Richard Virenque - 8
White: Vladimir Karpets - 3
Most Combative Rider: Richard Virenque - 2


Final Standings:

Elsaak - 128
Gumby78 - 103
Serutan - 101
Hitro - 80
MrPresident - 74
Rik Meleet - 71
Womens Lib - 55
Darkness - 42
MCdread - 40
addiv - 37
prettyvacant - 37
SanPellegrino - 36
-Oblivion- - 31
AVN - 31
El Sop - 23
Inter32 - 16

Congratulations to everyone and to Elsaak in particular who won his second competition after the 2003 Vuelta IIRC.

In a month we'll be back for the Vuelta! :)

thx McDread for running this and congrats Elsaak!

btw, did anybody saw what USPS did again to poor Simeoni today?

oh, and greetings from my GF, thanking that she could participate. to be honest, she is more than happy that she beat me... :( ;)

thx McDread for running this and congrats Elsaak!

btw, did anybody saw what USPS did again to poor Simeoni today?

Well, Armstrong said the other day that he was protecting the péloton and cycling from a guy that seeks to destroy it. :rolleyes: And that when he brought Simeoni back, he was cheered, while Simeoni was insulted. Apparently, the basque riders at least thought otherwise, and I've read statements of both David Etxebarria and Unai Etxebarria saying that it was a classeless action and that they thought that instead, the péloton was not amused, and that Armstrong is respected, but doesn't have that many friends, unlike Indurain who was loved by everyone.

Personally, I felt that it was very bad, especially the part where Armstrong back in the péloton made a gesture of zipping the lips to everyone, while celebrating the feat with some guys near him and team mates... I don't know if Simeoni is a guy to be trusted or not, but this were the actions of a Stepfather, not a cycling champion imo. And he did exactly what LeMond said in antecipation in the other interview: Simeoni accused the (in)famous Ferrari, and Lance came out saying that he was trying to destroy the sport, the sport. :rolleyes:

It doesn't help to clear out the suspicion, on the contrary, and it points to a sort of corporativist organisation inside the péloton, where, as we have seen, the riders that say in Court that doping is widespread and reveal the methods, become proscripts, like Manzano and apparently Simeoni now.

oh, and greetings from my GF, thanking that she could participate. to be honest, she is more than happy that she beat me... :( ;)

And is that a problem? :D

I also add my thanks to McDread for running this. And congrats to Elsaak.

Thanks MCdread for running this competition. :)

And congrats to Elsaak :goodjob:

(I only wonder what sort of doping he used when he submitted his list ;) :D )

Apparently, the basque riders at least thought otherwise, and I've read statements of both David Etxebarria and Unai Etxebarria saying that it was a classeless action and that they thought that instead, the péloton was not amused, and that Armstrong is respected, but doesn't have that many friends, unlike Indurain who was loved by everyone.

Personally, I felt that it was very bad, especially the part where Armstrong back in the péloton made a gesture of zipping the lips to everyone, while celebrating the feat with some guys near him and team mates... I don't know if Simeoni is a guy to be trusted or not, but this were the actions of a Stepfather, not a cycling champion imo. And he did exactly what LeMond said in antecipation in the other interview: Simeoni accused the (in)famous Ferrari, and Lance came out saying that he was trying to destroy the sport, the sport. :rolleyes:

I wonder most that Simeoni didn't even accused Armstrong of anything, he just said he took EPO given to him by Ferrari. In Ferraris institute were found the dopage plans of 60 riders, so it is not that the public would think Simeoni lied. I think Armstrong pulls down his own legend this way.

btw, did you see the handsigns Ekimov made to Simeoni when they catched him today :rolleyes:

I wonder most that Simeoni didn't even accused Armstrong of anything, he just said he took EPO given to him by Ferrari. In Ferraris institute were found the dopage plans of 60 riders, so it is not that the public would think Simeoni lied. I think Armstrong pulls down his own legend this way.

Yes. And it certainly lends credence to what Greg LeMond said about
Lance's threats to him in '01. Obviously Lance has quite the vindictive streak.

btw, did you see the handsigns Ekimov made to Simeoni when they catched him today :rolleyes:

No, I didn't. What were those?

The Dutch commentator who knows Lance quite well (and has a good relationship with him, although they are not friends) says: "If you get in his black book you will never get out of it". The Rabobank team once didn't show enough thanks for a stage win (Boogerd's win on La Plagne). A bit like Pantani on the Ventoux. Since then they have a problem as well.

But this trait probably makes him the champion he is. He had a tough childhood and that shaped his character.

No, I didn't. What were those?

Ekimov made an "ox-sign" towards Simeoni when they catched him, (I think he wanted to say "you are so stupid". OTOH I am sure Simeoni knew his attack at this point was futile, he just wanted the world to know what they do to him, he knew from the stage 2 days ago that they won't let him go.

Thanks McDread for organizing this :goodjob:. I'm not overly impressed by my own performance, my sprinters gambit didn't work out very well, especially because I didn't choose the right ones... Anyway, I'll be back!

Finally I'm back !
Thanks for all your congratulations, and my special thanks to MCdread, for is great job.
You keep the spirit alive... ;)

On the competiton, once again, the winner is the lucky one who pick the unknow follow who's make the great surprise : it was the same in the vuelta game last year (with Nozal), and if I haven't pick off Cunego from my first list in Giro'04 game, it would have been the same once more...!
I was very pitty at the