Thursday, July 03, 2008

The Great Paradox



Yes. I am aware that it is a road biking event- and yet still the most moving of human dramas, a myth alive in an age of postmodern disdain for the grand gesture.

I speak, obviously, of Le Tour de France.

I have no idea or opinion as to favorites, the changing teams, and the bottom-dealing shenanigans of all involved. I do think Don King needs to step down as Tour Director. Whatever. None of that matters.

Watching people ride bikes makes me want to ride bikes more than I already want to ride, and there ain't much going on but the ride around here.

So yes, on the eve of our nation's day my thoughts are elsewhere.

My thoughts are with Alexis de Tocqueville, who was french but thought always of America.

He said;

The greatness of America lies not in being more enlightened than any other nation, but rather in her ability to repair her faults.

I feel exactly the same way about his nation's bicycle race.

Saturday at 8:30 A:M EST I will be watching, and pulling for one doomed for heartbreak sucker after another who sets his cap for victory.

Because this time one of those guys gets to win it all.

-Juancho


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

This year I win it for all of you at the Biggest Ring of Circus!

Big Maggie Backstedt.

Team Garmin-Chipotle

Anonymous said...

Have you gotten your cooler full of Edy's popsicles ready?