The Tour

I'm not a big sports fan by ANY stretch of the imagination. Even when I played sports I had a slightly bewildered look on my face, never fully understanding the rules and surprised when the goal/hoop/bases changed to the other side and we were going the other direction. I was that kid who occasionally scored for the other team.

But every year I get a bit excited for there is one sport that I will watch faithfully for a month. The Tour de France. And that started today!!!!!

Unfortunately it did not start well.

My hopes have already been dashed for a big win for Jan Ullrich this year. A huge drug scandal went down, and a number of racers were pulled out, including three of the big boys, Giro d'Italia champion Ivan Basso, 1997 Tour winner Jan Ullrich (my favorite now that Lance is gone) and Spaniard Francisco Mancebo were pulled out by their teams after being implicated in an investigation into a doping scandal in Spain. They've not been found guilty yet, but can't ride regardless.

*sigh*

And I'd really like to think that they'll be found innocent. Seems a bit political to be doing a drug bust so close to the actual race, and pulling out the most favored and seasoned contendors for the yellow jersy.

So Lance, it's probably a good thing you didn't ride this year. Either you would have A) been implicated as well and tarnished your reputation regardless of the outcome or B) had no competition whatsoever and won in a ho-hum 8th race.

Other than that, happy first day of the Tour!!!! Much excitement now to see who will be the next big champion after Lance, and even if you don't like the cycling it's worth watching for the scenery!