As I write this I am watching the Tour of California prologue on the DVR. I already know the results, but it's just great to be watching cycling on T.V.
I'm not going to cover the race on this blog, but I do have a few random thoughts to spew:
What perfect timing for this race to keep cycling alive in the minds of Americans. Here we are in the tail end of winter, getting tired of riding our trainers and just plain sick of the cold. Nothing like watching a stage race on T.V. to kick start the season and motivate cyclists to ride and to keep up with pro cycling now that Lance is gone.
All of the U.S. cycling stars showed up for the race. I can't think of anyone that pulled the old "this race doesn't fit with my training plan for the TdF so I'm sitting out," routine.
There's a new American cycling team to compete on the world stage in Team Toyota-United.
Did you hear the race announcers in the background (not Bob Roll and Paul Sherwen...I'm talking about the announcer for the fans at the race)? Classic American style...getting the crowd excited for certain riders...just a little WWF style.
This race is great for cycling fans. But, I don't think anyone else knows about it. How will it move from the mindshare of the cycling enthusiast to the mindshare of the average American?
