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Yesterday’s stage 2 ended with the sprint finish we all expected. Cavendish, the self-proclaimed fastest man on two wheels, pulled ahead at the end for an impressive race to the finish. Tyler Farrar came in second but watch for him in every sprint as he HAS beaten Cavendish before. The overall standings for the top ten remain the same as the sprinters were not placed very high after the time trial.

Today’s stage 3 is well underway but with another long, flat finish it looks like it will be another sprinter’s race. I’m rooting for Farrar but think Cavendish will win again if they catch the break-a-way.

Do not be put off by today’s individual time trial. This race against the clock sets the stage and establishes a sort of ranking as things get started. When everyone rides together there is a lot more excitement: bike crashes, break-a-ways, doping scandals, etc. Spoiler Alert: Lance started off strong but ended up in 10th place with his teammate Contador taking second and Fabian Cancellara coming in first. There has been a lot of speculation as to who the leader of team Astana will be: Armstrong vs. Contador but I think it is clear after today, the team should support Contador.

The sports commentator gang is back and in fine form. The Brits: Paul Sherwin and Phil Liggett are known for their flowery English descriptions of the riders and the action. The Americans: Bob Roll and Craig Hummer speak plainly but cannot pronounce French.

Tomorrow’s stage 2 will be more exciting than today, but if you are pressed for time tune in to the last 8-10 minutes for the final rush to the finish line!

One day to the start of Le Tour de France and it looks like QuickStep’s Boonen will get to race after all. Despite a positive drug test for cocaine, and the ASO decision to NOT let him ride in the tour, his appeal was granted. The Court of Arbitration for Sport of the French Olympic Committee (whoever THEY are) has decided he is in. So, the lesson is, if you break the rules but are very important to your team and your sponsors, it will be overlooked n’est ce pas? Remember last year’s theme song for Le Tour? Apparently, Boonen did not get the anti-drug message. 

The up side is, the tour will be more competitive with Boonen in the race and I’m all for that. The more competitors there are, hopefully, less coverage for Mr. I’m-retired-wait-no-I’m-not! Either way, Vive Le Tour!!!

Live coverage begins Saturday, July 4th 8:30 Eastern time on Versus. But DO NOT enter the Cervelo play to win sweepstakes. I’ve had my eye on that bike since  2003! Le vélo est à moi!