Let's Get Ready to Tour (de France, that is)

WoW!! It's been way too long since my last post. Been very busy on my wine blog and remodeling my unfinished basement. Actually missed the Tour of California and only saw bits and pieces of the Giro. Had to set priorities and my cycling blog came in last. Now, I think I'm ready.

What I did see and by the results of the Giro and the U23 Paris-Roubaix makes me just that more excited about the upcoming Tour de France. Team Astana has shown that they are the team to beat and very suprisingly Team Columbia - Highroad is taking up that challenge. Great job done by Team Columbia in the Giro.

And how about Denis Menchov. Although a big Levi and Lance fan, I was very happy to see Menchov win. He has consistanly been one of the great riders on the pro tour. I now have to consider him as a podium finisher in "le tour", although beating Contador will be a gigantic task.

And how about the 'old man.' Go Lance!! 12th in the Giro. Honestly, especially after the crash and injury, I was just wishing he would finish the race. Is he ready for the Tour? Oh yeah! This is going to be great month of July. I lived for the Armstrong/Ulrich rivalry, but I think this years Tour will go down as one of the best ever. And before I forget, welcome back Ivan Basso. One of my all-time faves. Why did you ever juice up, your a winner without it.

Ok, time for my podium picks. (another change)

Yellow Jersey: Contador wins with Sastre and Leipheimer on the podium! Not a bad guess for now. I know I once said you won't see Sastre on my picks, but he is slowly making a believer out of me. This guy got determinatioin and heart, if he gets the team behind him, he can very well upset Contador.