Somebody explain to me the strategy in the Tour de France. Is Lance in good shape or is he losing ground?

From what I understand, he is so powerful in the mountains, he decided to stay close and fresh until the climbs begin. From what people that follow and understand cycling have told me, staying safe with all the crashes going on is of utmost importance - while everyone else wears themselves out. His "climbing" strength is "legendary".

By the way, do you understand the time trials?

Thanks.

Keep'em moving Colonel, a man that eloquent has to be saved.

[This message has been edited by ag58 (edited 7/14/2002).]

The individual time trial is a pretty simple affair.

The riders start in intervals and ride a given course alone without the benefit of teammates for support. It's every man for themself against the clock. The man with the fastest overall time is the winner of that stage.

Lance and the his US Postal team are in great position. He came in 2nd in today's time trial and moved up to 2nd place in the overall standings. This is good because Lance is in a position to be the hunter rather than the hunted heading into the mountains. It's good for the team, too, because they don't have to worry about protecting the yellow jersey.

The next few days of racing are going to be very interesting. There are some complicated strategies developing that are difficult to explain if you don't follow cycling. It's a team sport that requires a lot more than just Lance riding well to ensure his victory.

Anyway, our Texan is doing us proud and should give us quite a show in the mountains. Even if you don't ride or follow cycling, but love Lance, you should watch the mountain stages on the Outdoor Life Network (OLN). The live broadcasts for the mountains will air at 7:30 am, with the replay being shown at 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm. Great stuff.

NWR:

Thanks.

What is the purpose of the time trials? Ans why one the team and one for individuals?

Thanks again.

Keep'em moving Colonel, a man that eloquent has to be saved.

Every year he starts off behind while they are on level ground. When it gets to the Pyrennes it becomes a different story because Lance is the best climber in the world (with a bicycle). This year I think he's stayed closer to the top. I expect his 4th straight win. I am not a cycling expert, I just like paying attention to the tour de france

Gig 'em
Jamz