Tour de France 2010 - Who gets the Wild Cards?
by Monty. on Nov 1, 2009 5:05 PM EST
324 comments
(Admission: Frinking did all the work for this and posted it in the Cadel Evans leaves *Lotto thread but I'm sticking it up as a seperate thread because I'm sure I'll want to find it again in the future)
The GT organisers are going to have a tough time dishing out Wild Cards next year because there are an awful lot of teams who believe that they should be there by right. So lets start from the top. As part of the deal that concluded the squabble between the UCI and the GT organisers a couple of years back, all the then ProTour teams were guaranteed entry to the GTs in 2009 and 2010. Those teams are:
1 AG2R-La Mondiale,2 Astana,
3 Bouygues Télécom, (Now Bbox, no longer PT)
4 Caisse d’Epargne,
5 Cofidis, (no longer PT)
6 Euskaltel-Euskadi,
7 Française des Jeux,
8 High Road (later Team Columbia),
9 Lampre,
10 Liquigas,
11 Silence-Lotto, (Now Omega-Pharma-Lotto)
12 Quick·Step,
13 Rabobank,
14 Saunier Duval-Scott, (Now Footon-Servetto)
15 Team CSC (Now Saxo),
16 Team Milram,
Two of those teams, Credit Agricole and Gerolsteiner are now defunct but the other 16 have guaranteed entry. They might just be persuaded (bribed?) not to ride the Giro and Vuelta, but I'd guess that ASO are stuck with them for the Tour.
Next there are two new, but established ProTour teams:
17 Garmin-Slipstream18 Team Katyusha
Then two brand new ProTour teams:
19 Radio Shack20 Sky
Then we move on to the Pro-Conti teams. Two are pushing for contention because they have serious contenders on board, viz. Sastre, Thor and Cadel:
21 Cervelo Test Team22 BMC
Then we have the Dutch contingent, at least one of which is likely to be on the start line in Rotterdam. I suspect that ASO would have liked to see both. Kenny Van Hummel's fight to beat the time cut was one of the great stories to come from this year's Tour and we'd all like to see him back. But do you put that ahead of the Feillu brothers?
23 Vacansoleil24 Skil Shimano
And so far there are only three French teams against a possible four US ones. So the final possible team is the Breton squad that includes French stars Jimmy Caspar, Jerome Coppel and Jonathan Hivert:
25 Saur-Sojasun (this year's Besson Chaussures)So who gets stiffed? I'm guessing that Sky could well lose out, even though they claim to have a place all but guaranteed. Katyusha could also be at risk. And does Cadel in rainbow really guarantee a place? Chances are that there are all sorts of behind the scenes deals going on right now, and that things eventually get decided on who sponsors the most minor jersies in lesser races in the ASO stable. It still looks like a tough call.
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Tough competition
I would not want to be a team with riders testing positive in the coming months, seems like ASO could use anything to justify pulling an invitation.
My guesses
Probably in with a wild card: Garmin (established GC contenders and Farrar) and Radioshack (Lance=money and he has some talented teammates as well). That’s 18.
Cervelo is vulnerable, but their roster, especially Thor and Sastre, should clinch it. Maybe Sastre is content to target the Giro, and they might miss out on an invite (poor Thor).
I’d imagine Katusha and Sky have the cash and enough talent to get an invitation, but something could happen to change that, particularly in Katusha’s case.
BMC is in tough competition, my bet is ASO would love for someone to slip up so they can pull someone’s standing invite and give it to BMC and/or one of either Vaconsoleil (Feillu brothers and Hoogerland) or another French team (I hope not, can’t see one deserving it). Seems destined to be a 22 team field because of the competition for spots.
This also makes the Contador/Astana situation all the more interesting, maybe ASO can get out of inviting a Vino-led Astana and maybe some of the new signings can invalidate their contracts if Astana loses PT status.
by Nomer on Nov 1, 2009 5:32 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
The big narratives that I remember from this year were:
1. Bert v Lance and the whole Astana soap opera
2. Cav v Thor for the green jersey
3. Kenny “Ghislain Lambert” Van Hummel
(By “big” I mean the stories that lasted beyond a single stage). Obviously you can’t expect the same stories to repeat next year, but I wonder how tempted ASO will be to keep those three going. I reckon that Cervelo are a pretty sure bet for an entry just to give Cav some competition. Garmin too, perhaps, if they keep at least trying to beat him straight up in the sprints (plus it would be a kick in the teeth for “clean” cycling to exclude one team that makes that such an integral part of the team philosophy.
I reckon that the killer for BMC will be the four US teams bit. If ASO let in all of them then they will have to have four French teams too.
by Monty. on Nov 1, 2009 6:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be some serious statement!
Cervelo in le Tour:
Green Jersey Hushovd
Stage win Haussler
Stage win Hushovd
2xsecond place Hushovd
With such a successful Tour you get your invite next year I think
And I’m not so sure about sky! You don’t pay for your invitation right? They seems not so solid for a wildcard
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 1, 2009 6:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Either Sky are screwed
or Bradley Wiggins’ price has suddenly shot up again
by Monty. on Nov 1, 2009 6:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
I think Sky may have some trouble now.
It’s hard to imagine the ASO stiffing Vacansoleil with their wise signing of the Feillu brothers.
by gavia on Nov 1, 2009 6:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Forgot to add
I’m pretty sure Sky have done the groundwork (major sucking up/cash?) to make sure they have a guaranteed invite for 2010.
by Jens on Nov 2, 2009 6:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Where's their genuine GC contender for 2010?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Serge Pauwels and Thomas Lovkvist?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Next year? I think they're great but not yet...
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
two words
rupert murdoch…
i don’t think aso would leave a media outlet “BSkyB” out in the cold. Cycling isn’t the ASO’s only event. they have a bit more power than other teams in that regard i would think.
by rowyco on Nov 2, 2009 10:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Except that
ASO’s cycling rights are currently negotiated centrally through the European Broadcasting Union & one of the conditions is that there has to be a free-to-air component. At the minute, that effectively counts Sky out in both Britain & Italy, even though Sky are apparently interested. Yes, they have things other than cycling, but come on, French Open Golf??
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 12:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
but...
he also owns Fox…
I could just as easily be wrong, but it certainly won’t hurt their chances, that’s for sure!
by rowyco on Nov 2, 2009 1:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure he owns Fox
but so what? Can’t see them or their audience (stereotyping horribly here, admittedly) being much interested in cycling beyond, say, Lance, in the States anyway (& Sky are hardly buying up American riders, not that they’d stand a chance given how crowded that corner of the market is a present. (Australia might be slightly more promising but still.)
In fact, you could make a case for the opposite view, which is that ASO/other European rights holders would not give two hoots about pissing off Murdoch (& frankly, over here James & Elisabeth count for a hell of a lot more than the old man these days, at least publicly) because he is already regarded as way too dominant & assorted European media interests with whom ASO already deal have no interest in his getting an even greater foothold in Europe.
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 1:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't think the individual riders will have anything to do with it in this case
Although i suppose they could make some noice about bringing EBH to help avoid 8x EasyCavWins?
by Jens on Nov 2, 2009 6:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Anything to avoid ECW's ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately even EBH can't do that
Only if it’s majorly uphill would EBH triumph
by dansel on Nov 2, 2009 8:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well.. I think it is..
Where you think the selection is based on?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Money ... who can pull in fans
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not sure what that has to do with it ;-)
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 9:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well then I can't explain, although you're right to ask I suppose
The French and Euskies agree with you ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I kind of thought that
but if they can’t even get their licence paperwork sorted out on time… not very typical of Brailsford & co, mind.
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 9:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure Sky have done the sucking
but then I remember the podium back at Milan-San Remo covered with Vacansoleil signs, even though they had been booted off by the CAS ruling to let Fuji ride. I’m sure that ASO are capable of saying “thanks for the money, but you’d better spend even more next year. Just to make sure”
It would be some serious egg on Brailsford’s face though.
by Monty. on Nov 2, 2009 5:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also my understanding
is that the September 2008 agreement runs out after this year, and that after that the top 17 ranked teams get guaranteed TdF spots (for the next year I’d assume) and everyone else needs a wild card.
I had seen someone say it was a four year deal, but I do not believe that to be true. Maybe someone can confirm? I took this from a cyclingfans post on a L’Equipe article here
by Nomer on Nov 1, 2009 5:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
clarification
by “after this year” I mean after the upcoming 2010 season, which is obviously not taking place in the current year.
by Nomer on Nov 1, 2009 5:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Me likes it and I think we get 22 teams in the Tour.
I really don’t think they are going to overlook VacansOleil. They pleased ASO with their new riders.
That would make a dismiss for BMC in the top 22. But I don’t know about Katushya. They could be easily taken out of the Tour
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 1, 2009 5:59 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
agreed
I feel Katusha and Sky are most vulnerable (of the PT teams), despite their deep pockets and monopoly on national markets that make them viable as business entities.
If the field were selected today Vacansoleil would definitely deserve an invite on roster and results. Last year it appears the Tour invites were announced on or around March 17th, so practically no racing to be done before then that would likely mean enough to affect anything (can’t see early Belgian season or TDU/Qatar and all that meaning much). Especially since the organizers were probably contemplating their decision and planning for a few weeks before that, meaning they probably would be less likely to react to semi-classics and the like.
It seems the only things left that can affect the situation are transfers and any ethics violations by teams like Saunier-duval/Fuji had (which don’t appear likely). Astana is also probably in regardless of PT status if Bbox and Cofidis are grandfathered in.
by Nomer on Nov 1, 2009 7:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If the agreement is still in place, then I think that Skil will not get an invite...
Not to knock them or anything but if Vancansoleil was invited, they would do the same thing except have more chances with guys like Bozic and Hoogerland.
Other teams that might have a little trouble: Sky and BMC. Only reason is that they are new and might just be pushed out because there is no room because of national pride/politics. The French would probably like to see Saur-Sojasun in and Lance will definitely get in.
It is going to be a tough choice.
by Vlaanderen90 on Nov 1, 2009 6:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Agree
I think Skil just got less likely with the Evans signing.
by gavia on Nov 1, 2009 6:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Evans seems to be the nail in skil's coffin
+1
On a side note, I’d imagine BMC will seek to play up their “Swissness” if too many American teams in TdF is a problem for organizers. Perhaps even license there if they are not already- didn’t Barloworld switch from Britain to South Africa?
by Nomer on Nov 1, 2009 7:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sky and Katusha seem to be the short straws.
Though I agree that Skil’s chances have dimmed.
"…I saw bloody Cavendish coming, really fast…"
HH
by ELVISGOAT on Nov 1, 2009 8:13 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'd have to say that Rabobank will be enough Dutch for ASO
If there are no more problems with other teams then having Rabobank and three stages will have to be enough. Maybe a few years ago Prudhomme might have wanted to make waves or a statement but why not include as many big teams from different countries as possible.
Although on the subject of making waves/statements wouldn’t it be interesting if ASO said to everyone, “Pick your best eight, everyone’s invited”.
Cancellara was robbed! There is none better.
by Mark Frank on Nov 1, 2009 8:28 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
nice post
i think skil are definitely out, it’s a shame but vlaanderen90 is right, vacansoleil will be the same, only better. brice feillu in particular could be a good shout for the polka dot jersey. i daresay aso would like to stiff Katusha and/or Footon in order to get Sky. it’s just whether they can get away with it..
this is an interesting topic, and will only get more interesting as time passes. with the increasing number of quality teams, maybe it’s time to knock one rider off the grand tour roster, or at least have a good think about how to fit everyone in.
"well...you live in england so: you love the rain. loves the queen. hates cycling. based on mr bean had a tremendous amount of humour. all ride in a mini cooper. all getting drunk before the age of 12. getting drunk at least 3 times a day."- frinking, 7/9/09
by benrazor on Nov 1, 2009 8:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
another thing BMC has going for it (other than the mentioned above) is Hincapie
riding in his 16th TdF. That is if he decides to ride. (He has made noise about not riding it again.) He will tie the record next year for number of times a rider has finished the TdF.
Do you think Evans would sign with BMC if they didn’t have a tentative agreement for the TdF?
by ZoeRochelle on Nov 1, 2009 8:58 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hincapie has "only" started 14 and finished 13
Joop Zoetemelk started & finished 16 (the first 12 in top 10).
by tedvdw on Nov 1, 2009 10:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like I don't know what I am talking about.
I thought last year he was one from tying the record.
by ZoeRochelle on Nov 2, 2009 11:52 AM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
maybe it's the American record
which I think may be Andreu, and would probably be around 13-14. I could be wrong though.
by gavia on Nov 2, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not Andreu: 9 fer 9
Hincapie has the American record already: http://www.letour.fr/HISTO/fr/TDF/recherche/USA/all/participations.html
by tedvdw on Nov 2, 2009 1:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The last four teams
Here’s how I rank the Bubble teams right now.
This is like predicting the Bubble teams of the NCAA basketball tournament.
I see 18 teams pretty much guaranteed a slot with the 17th being Garmin and 18th Cervelo. So we have four slots to fill:
19. Vacansoleil
20. Radio Shack
21. Saur-Sojasun
22. BMC-the last team with a slot
-—————————————-
23. Sky-the first team on the outside
24. Katusha
25. Skil Shimano
So if somehow Astana and/or Footon and/or some other team really screws up this winter (along with ASO having an out that allows them to exclude a team if they violate the agreement somehow) then Sky gets the first slot opened, Katusha the second, and Skil the third.
by ursula on Nov 1, 2009 10:24 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I don't see Sky on the outside
Who else gets booted so they are in?, no friggin clue really. Multiple guesses.
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 1, 2009 11:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You could boot Lampre...
they bring absolutely nothing to the Tour and usually only make about 9,000 euro for the whole team in prizes.
by Vlaanderen90 on Nov 2, 2009 12:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and Euskaltel while you're at it
Sorry Albertina
by thebongolian on Nov 2, 2009 5:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I will reluctantly agree
After the debacle with Astaloza this year, them sitting out a year wouldn’t be a bad thing. Other than that issue, they really have only been a place holder recently anyways. Why not put a team in there that will liven things up with an actual chance of a win. Unfortunately, the Euskie boys are the nearly men recently.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well.. Difficult case.
The Astarloza has surely not been good to them but they have an attractive young team. They attack a lot! Nice to see but looking through their team there are 2 or 3 riders who really belong in le Tour:
Anton, Intxauti, Txurruka and maybe Samsan.
Indeed not enough if you could chose for let them out, right..
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sure they're going to Celebrate the Pyrenées by excluding Euskaltel
No, I think not
by Jens on Nov 2, 2009 6:31 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
The Basques are known for their tendencies to express themselves with TNT
Cancellara was robbed! There is none better.
by Mark Frank on Nov 2, 2009 6:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That's a frighteningly convincing argument...
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly. They bring so many fans to the Tour I'd be very surprised if this happened.
And upset, obviously. Besides, if they boot Euskie why not the Footons? They haven’t exactly brought much to the Tour in recent times….
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 8:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They weren't in the Tour this year
But that is fair enough.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think it would be hard to overlook BMC for Sky right now
Better to fabricate some shite about Astana or Katusha, dump them, and bring in BMC!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Katusha maybe... the TDF winner 09 is still riding for Astana
He deserves a guernsey … and it would be ‘fabricating shite’ which is bad for the sport. I’m a fan of a number of Sky riders, but at the moment, I think they come in behind BMC.
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 4:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously I wasn't serious
However, Vino riding for Astana seriously brings down their credibiltiy, regardless of Bert riding for them or not. Anyways, if they didn’t get an invite, he could jump ship for another team.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Where Astana's concerned it's safer to take things seriously ;)
because feelings run high. Anyway, I’m hoping that Bert and Vino will be there …
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 4:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You know you can't take this kind of stuff seriously
It’s not important, just fun.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree but I'm also a wimp...
But I like your philosophy. To me all sport should be fun. That said, I like the narratives and the redemption of Vino appeals ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 4:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Of course Astana is in!
And of course wae are going to see an attacking VinoMort.. Yeaaaaah
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
'Vinomort'! I LOVE it... :)
so long as he doesn’t hiss…..
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You mean talk with snakes?! (I have read the translations version! Is going to be some serious trouble)
I’m more afraid of the death eaters.. Seriously.. I think if they get you.. You arte a Vinomort fan for ever…
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Oooh, the death eaters. horrible =(
but yes snakes hiss…
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Have you had a bad day? ;)
Spunout says it was a joke. Contrary to what another thread suggests, perhaps we don’t always have a sense of humour. Alternatively, it’s usually at the end of a long day when we ‘chat’ :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed it was
But obviously not a very good joke at that!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously, we believe you... don't we Lou?
But the ‘M’ word will be raised if you ever suggest the demise of Vino again :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If only I had the power to plant false evidence
And make things the way they should be.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You understand that now even I'm thinking the 'm' word?
i’m not sure we’d agree on the way things should be ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I say bring back the old days
Where any individual thinking got you labeled as a Communist sympathizer.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm using Lou's disclaimer
Spunout, you are dragging your coat tails and one of us will step on them. Proceed at your peril!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:52 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You understand we'd probably meet that criteria... at least I would ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rest assured I would have you thrown in the slammer ASAP!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You don't scare me in you big jack boots! marshmallow underneath ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That does it!!! Down with Bert and Astana
My minions are on their way from the Deutsched vaterland to Spain right now with bag of tainted O pos as we speak!!!!!!!!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They can supply their own ;)
Joke Bert fans… ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I hear there is a stash that the Spanish cycling federation
Won’t let out of their sights.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and who are their friends?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I cannot tell you for fear of a Kazahk neck tie!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Don't forget the snow leopards!
I hear they can be dangerous. Kazakhs have mandarin collars not neckties you fashion tragedy!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
How could I forget
Well, off to run for 30 minutes or so. Will continue this exchange later.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Looks like no run for me
The skies just opened up! Ah well, such is life in die Eifel/Ardennen this time of year.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Never mind. It's just about bedtime here
after 26 degrees C and clear skies today…
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:31 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Haaahaha
In my family, we fondly recall the day when, as a young ’un, I came home from school and announced to my Mother that I was a communist…
Liberal voters, every last one of ‘em. They can’t figure out what ‘went wrong’ with me…
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 6:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Same! My father phones every election day and says
with a mixture of horror and pride, ‘i suppose you voted Green?’ You know the answer. I think he’s happy that at least he taught us to think for ourselves ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That has been tried before ;-)
the righteous prevailed, in the end
[disclaimer: I am joking. This is in jest]
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 6:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was joking!
Yes, ‘tired Lou thought processes’ at work, I’ll grant… but I was thinking along the lines of ‘oh right, let’s pick on the former SU teams’… and well, it amused me… should I go to bed?
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 6:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, not yet ... I was hoping you'd turn up.
HSC marking in full swing. my brain is fried ..
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'd swap Katusha and Cervelo.
I think the bad blood (literally as well as figuratively) might just be out of Katusha, so they can hopefully avoid screwing up this winter. Sastre realizes he can’t out-climb Bert and Andy, so he’ll do the Giro-Vuelta, leaving just Hushovd and Haussler as Cervelo’s main draws. I think they lose out in the battle for the wildcard with BMC.
Sorry Rupert Murdoch, but Sky loses to Lance’s publicity, Saur-Sojasun’s Frenchiness, and the Feilus. Should’ve tried harder to get wiggo.
by dansel on Nov 2, 2009 1:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
+1
Looks like a good list. Having the problem of too many choices to make is actually a good thing for us viewers. It just means that despite the shite economy, pro cycling is on the up and that can only mean better racing all around.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 3:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Katushja looks to strong to oversee..
McEwen, Swift, Napo(Sprinttrain). Ivanov, Botcharov, Ignatiev(Viva la attaque) Karpets and Kirchen (GC)
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Once a week I give in to my baser instincts :(
oversee= supervise
overlook= ignore
Please excuse me if I’ve gone too far.
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You've gone to far damn it!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My favourite writer -Frinkster
I just want to be able to say I gave him a piece of advice when he’s a famous sports journalist – or a comedian :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But you've gone to far.
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you mean I've gone too far?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry.
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha no..
oversee is btw clearly a Frinkism..
In Dutch it is is overkijk or close to.. Litterally translated is oversee
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Literally maybe 'overkill'?
But frinkisms are more fun :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
no.. kill= doden in Dutch
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ok... you understand that unlike you and many others who are here
i am terrible at all languages except English :(
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.. I speak both languages fluently and you was trying to correct me?
Foolish woman (:
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Often ... sigh
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Are you not finding
that you are starting to pick up Dutch? Even a smidgeon? I know that I am. (truly – the other day, I was spotting issues with the google gizmo’s Dutch-English translation, much to my surprise).
Personally, I think that this is part of the Frinkster’s Cunning Plan… he is trying to surreptitiously get us all speaking Dutch…
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 6:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, he is furtive and brilljant...
Occasionally I get it, but tonight after marking all day, i’m having trouble understanding English :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't that supposed to be briljant?
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
bugger! You win :(
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Lou is right
More to the point, Frinkster is changing English to Dutch one consonant/vowel combo at a time.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
'Angelsachian' is my favourite
It’s the closest I’ll get to a halo.
Lou is nearly always right. ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
to=too
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Look up ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That's where I took my to of!
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Off or from
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 6:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
AAAH
I’m glad I skip my English examn today
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You did not!
Please go ‘muahaha’
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Uuh no.. Spanish Examn tomorrow.. That's going to be a disaster if I'm not going to start learning.. 2 hours ago..
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Start studying immediately!
You are currently practising avoidance behaviour ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I know. Have faith in frinkisms ... they work ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 6:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Footon is no guarantee in my eyes
BMC, The Shack, Saur Sojasun, Vacansoleil, Sky are in
No Cervelo, no Skil Shimano, and i dont know if Milram’s gonna go (they might need to have a decent season) but theyre likely in
by agl on Nov 1, 2009 11:02 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
No Cervelo? 2 stage wins and the defending green jersey doesn't get you in?...
that would be absolutely shocking. They are above Sky
by Vlaanderen90 on Nov 2, 2009 12:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
At 2nd thought, yeah
even though outside of sastre, hushovd, haussler, i dont know if theyre that impressive. we might see 23 teams there, i wouldnt be shocked
by agl on Nov 2, 2009 12:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Sastre will do the Giro-Vuelta double instead of le Tour
In which case all they have is Hushovd. Hushovd < BMC w/ Evans et al.
by dansel on Nov 2, 2009 1:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
hushovd, haussler, Deignan...
Cervelo actually wins races rather than most of the guys on BMC who might be there but they dont win…Of all of the guys that they have gotten, combined they had 0 GT stage wins last year. The Cervelo guys had 8. Teams have gotten in on much less too but when you have the defending green jersey and guys who can take a bunch of stages (Hushovd, Haussler, Deignan, Sastre, Konovalovas were all stage winners in GT’s last year that are still with the team.)
BMC just has a bunch of Classics racers with Evans. Other than Evans WC, the team that they assembled wins sparingly and does not show up for every stage looking to make a show.
In my opinion, it would just be better for both of them to skip the Tour and try to win a GT in the Giro and Vuelta. Sastre rocked the Giro last year with 3rd* and two stage wins and Cadel, unless he punctures, can definitely win a GT that isn’t the Tour. But if you give the bid to a team just because it includes a guy who finished 30th in last year’s tour then something is amiss
by Vlaanderen90 on Nov 2, 2009 2:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Cervelo v. BMC v. Liquigas in the Giro?
I like it.
You’re right about Cervelo’s victories in the GTs this year. I think BMC’s signings taking no stages, though, is more a random variation than an indication of their lack of similar talent (minus sprinters, that is). My prediction is based on the assumption that Cadel is gunning for the tour while Carlos won’t be, in which case I think the ASO likes having a WC on the potential podium.
by dansel on Nov 2, 2009 2:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
ASO would also want to keep the green jersey interesting
Not inviting Thor is practically the same as handing the jersey to Mark and thus killing a lot of the excitement in the intervening stages. The GC stages a well covered by Contador, Schlecks, Dwarf, Armstrong, Wiggo, Klöden, .. Not forgetting that Sastre actually won TdF, which alone ought to out-edge Cadel’s importance.
by OctaBech on Nov 2, 2009 3:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree about Footon-Servetto
They where not there in 2009, unless there is some rule I missed, I don’t see why they would be there next year.
Age and treachery will overcome youth and skill (F. Coppi)
by MathieuG on Nov 2, 2009 7:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That was because of the Piepoli and Ricco and cases
Which may not be relevant next year. But I wouldn’t cry if they are denied to start, the team is not very interesting.
Staring at the swim team gets you killed by a gang of dancing ninja men who know how to twirl.
by TheFigurehead on Nov 2, 2009 9:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But looking through their selection this year.. It's weaker the weak..
I mean.. Contintalie weak.
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
De la Fuente & Cobo are gone
they provided much excitement during Qatar and the Tour in previous years but they’ve moved on leaving a team with an average age in the mid 20’s – not much experience I’d say
by joeyc on Nov 2, 2009 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
+ Kessiakoff
Everybody who made the news last year is gone.
by Jens on Nov 2, 2009 12:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So unless Footon is actually grandfathered in from the old agreement...
… even though they have changed sponsorship like four times in two years, then they should be on the outside and in my guessing, lets Sky or Katusha slip through.
by ursula on Nov 2, 2009 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think they should take the 5 or six teams on the Fence
and tell them that Paris – Nice is the qualifying race for the Tour
Moo
by Willj on Nov 2, 2009 2:41 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
+1
The idea of qualifying races is a good idea. Make the teams bring top squads to the races and race like their Tour ride is hinging on it. The usual races that most of the big names avoid would become more relevant. From ASO’s standpoint, it makes perfect sense. From my standpoint as a fan, it would be awesome.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
paris-nice is NOT a race that big names avoid.... gt gc boys go to p-n, whereas sprinters go to t-a
"Wizard's first rule. People are stupid. They will believe anything they want to be true or fear to be true." -- Terry Goodkind
by umwolverine on Nov 2, 2009 4:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What I still can't wrap my head around is how BMC has gone from
Being a mostly US based team to now being a team that may be getting invited to the Tour. I wonder how all of the US domestic riders on the team are feeling about now. One day you are riding Gila, the next day you’re in the wind for the World Champion! Talk about going from the minors to the majors overnight.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
And won't it be excellent when people start thinking of it as an international team?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 4:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes it will
I just hope they have enough strong guys that can handle the jump in difficulty/workload. Riding a 160K races is a bit different than 250K races. Some people just can’t handle the jump.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 4:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Fingers crossed yeah? (I'm touching wood too) ...
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 4:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But are you knocking on said wood?
If you’re not, then it doesn’t count.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So says the American, the international BMC man knows there are many ways to make wood lucky ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah you got me, I'm an American
Albeit one living in Germany. Americans aren’t lucky enough to just be able to touch wood and make it count, at least not this American. I am pulling for them though. I’d love to see them at the Tour.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, to each his own. You knock, I'll touch...
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 5:52 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
One wonders how much of BMC just dumping cash to make the jump...
…had to do with the UCI deciding to screw around with their American program last year by enforcing stupid rules.
by Ed K on Nov 2, 2009 8:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Btw.. Evans stated
That they are going to ride the Giro, no shocker there, and that they have to try to get a wildcard for the Tour during the Giro.. If it’s true that the ASO decided the wildcards on the 17th of March last year that seems a little bit late.. But I hope they know better.
Source: Cyclingnews
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 5:50 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I think that a Giro invite is a great place to start for them
As far as a guaranteed Tour invite, I just think that Evans was ready to get out of Silence ASAP and wasn’t too worried about whether they got a guaranteed TdF invite or not.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 5:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
BTW There is been some snarkism, that can work in Evans sentences
vans said that his decision to Silence-Lotto to leave was inspired by the atmosphere in the group as by the quality of the riders.
“If you are looking for a team as GT rider , you need a team that from day 1 is 100% behind you. But you also need riders who are able to physically and capable do the necessary work.”
Google translate from, quick learner, Sportwereld
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:16 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Oops. This was totally in the wrong topic.. I'm sorry...
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 6:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Great posts...
and good information…
I am a huge Skil fan…and I was surprised and dismayed that Skil did not make any more effort to sign a big name tour rider this offseason. I too think that they will not get a ride in the tour. I am reall upset about it…van Hummel has always been my favorite rider (prior to this season and his coming out party). On the other hand Vacansoleil
did a good job with the Feillu brothers. Just disappointing…I kept waiting for the signing that would give them a good shot at the 2010 Tour. Oh well…
"If me and King Kong went into an alley, only one of us would come out. And it wouldn't be the monkey."
"I don't really trust a sane person."
"I never met a man I didn't want to fight." The one and only Lyle Alzado
by TRDean on Nov 2, 2009 7:26 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Crickets...chirp chirp
Anyone out there? Uh guys, guys?!
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:34 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Don't talk to me about crickets!
On of those bastards has taken up residence in my water heater. Again. Chirp chirp bloody chirp from a cavity in my kitchen wall. Thumping on the metal shuts the bugger up for all of three seconds. Bastard.
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 7:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just so you know... killing black crickets is bad luck ;)
Give them a cuddle and take them outside ;0
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Can't get to the bastard
to cuddle OR kill it! (and I wouldn’t want to kill it, BTW. Sorely tempted as I may become at times). I just wish it’d hurry up and get laid, and STFU!
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 7:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
HTFU :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Says the person
who does not have a horny insect carrying on in their water heater in the middle of the night :-(
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 7:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No i have a F...ing Koel outside my window that starts 'whooping' at four every morning!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What wa I doing outside your window?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 7:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You were just coming home from the surf :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 8:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Is that
like a whipoorwhill? The car alarm of the avian world. I lost a night of camping to one of those buggers.
"Harder! Better! Faster! Stronger!" Philippe Gilbert
by Chris... on Nov 3, 2009 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
seriously
there was a back country MTB race I did a couple years ago in which at least half the field had been kept up all )(### night by a )(@##!! whipoorwill (the other half must have been ridiculously heavy sleepers). I’m a 10+ year vegetarian, but I would have feasted on that little fucker if I could have caught it.
by Sui Juris on Nov 3, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, how did you do that?!
(is everybody else seeing what I’m seeing here…?)
by Lou... on Nov 4, 2009 3:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
HMTL "code" blocks
But I don’t know which symbol does that. Experiment:
at
#pound#
$dollar$
percent
circumflex
&ersand&
star
(bracket)
underline
plus
by tedvdw on Nov 4, 2009 4:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Right, put stuff between @-signs to get a code block, but make sure to leave a blank line and after to create room for the grey background.
For i = 1 to 10: Print "Basic, dear Watson. I mean, elementary!": Next i: End
by tedvdw on Nov 4, 2009 4:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, grazie!
oh look, I've found a new toy! weeheee
ahem
by Lou... on Nov 4, 2009 4:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking yes. They start around 3am and stop around the time you leave for work
In their favour is the fact that they herald summer. Mind you, so does the temperature gauge and it’s a lot quieter.
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 4, 2009 7:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously, is that why they chirrup?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yup
(that, and to piss Lou off, of course)
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 7:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
LOL! I had no idea :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Off with their heads!!!
Kill kill kill or is that kijl kijl kijl? Frinkster can let us know.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He can't let us know! He's studying for his Spanish exam...
But i’m going with your spelling :)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Converting the word Spanish into Dutch slowly
Spanish=Spanissh=Spanijs or Spanijx or something similar? Frinkster, what is your formula. Let me know so I can Dutchicize everything.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 8:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Or maybe hollandize, it's a very good sauce or so I'm told.
Cancellara was robbed! There is none better.
by Mark Frank on Nov 2, 2009 10:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think chop is the right spelling
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 7:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Get back to your books Clever Clogs!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Books? Aah Espaniol buono mucho
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 7:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It bloody better be. We'll wait for the results!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Jens is right... we know you're brilljant but the numbers talk too
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 7:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't it Espanjiol?
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 7:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I so haaate other languages than Dutch.
I have no freaking clue
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 8:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
One last thing before you go back to study ...
Languages and you have an affinity. Do the work now so that you have all the opportunities we all want you to have.
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 8:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You need to get a basic grasp
of Spanish, so that you can expand your Cunning Plan to Spanish speakers. Don’t worry – they’ll be speaking Dutch, too, in no time at all!
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 8:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We all know how Flecha's name looks in Dutch
Jan Anton Van Der Pijl, but how do you convert Spanish phrases slowly and subtly into Dutch? That will be interesting.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 8:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you need a spider or two
"Wizard's first rule. People are stupid. They will believe anything they want to be true or fear to be true." -- Terry Goodkind
by umwolverine on Nov 2, 2009 4:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I guessed this thread had exploded due to the Frinking-Aussie alliance.
How right I was ;-)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 8:45 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Is your name not here more than once?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 8:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You know how unconvincing it is when you act dumb...
Your name is in the Axis thread… you know. I lose the funny with you. I’m intimidated by your wit. Bugger!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 8:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The cyclo-cross thread... remind me who exploded that one ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 8:56 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It's not my fault there were only two people watching ;-)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 8:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Spunout will be offended to be called an 'Aussie'
But I thought you two just wanted quiet time. Cyclo-cross was a ruse ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ha!
You know I only have eyes for Niels Albert (shhh, don’t tell Frinking!)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Give him 5 minutes...
And I’m disappointed Albertina. i always thought it was Basques or Death!
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Never fear, Benat Intxausti is very much in my heart ;)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Albert->Albertina
That could work..
Other link? Albert is a French name. The Baque country side lays in French. So Albert is also Basque
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmm your logic is almost persuasive...
…but French Basque names never sound French!
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think anyone has ever called me an Aussie before
I don’t know how to respond.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 9:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
it would be nice to say something like
’I’m flattered but my accent would give me away’ instead of the horrified intakes of breath it induces in most people ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:12 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Aussie accent is pretty interesting to me
It is no more strange to me than the many British accents. I’m used to hearing all from watching British Sky all the time. There are many shows, especially kids shows stolen, I mean imported, from Oz.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 9:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I do miss watching Neighbours after lunch now that I'm not a student :-(
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
There was this ridiculous show on ITV call Ladettes I think?
Really awful stuff. If I were Australian I would be deeply offended.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 9:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They have a British version too
It’s offensive either way. But hey, I’m easily offended apparently ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ha! I didn't actually think you were a Down Underite...
It’s just that usually when a thread has doubled in size, Lou, Seahorse and Frinkster are involved in some way, and so they were!
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Down underite? Don't go Frinky on me!
I’m just a Yank living in Germany.
If I just had one more gear, I...
by SpunOut on Nov 2, 2009 9:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would like to pointout that you are usually also present ;)
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:22 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I usually come in on the end of it feeling a little lost ;)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 2, 2009 9:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A triumvirate of...
… what was it?… ah yes, ‘some of the greatest minds in cycling’… ;-)
Isn’t it funny how the brain-storming, the melting pot of genius, happens spontaneously in virtually any random thread…
by Lou... on Nov 2, 2009 3:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And therein lies the greatness of the Cafe ;-)
"If I were World Road Race Champion, I would wear black shorts. That probably has more to do with me being on the wiser side of 30 and understanding better that the decisions I make now never really go away. White shorts would not be something I'd be proud of...." - David Millar, in Rouleur.
by Albertina on Nov 3, 2009 9:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Look who's talking!
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Studying done?
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 2, 2009 9:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No.. Almost started.. Shees give me some time! (;
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Shack
Why should L.A’s team get an invite over the current world champion’s?
by joeyc on Nov 2, 2009 8:54 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Protour + $$.
And do you really want Lance to throw a hissy fit? That alone is reason to include him.
by dansel on Nov 2, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
what you meant to say was:
And do you really want Lance to throw a hissy fit? That alone is reason to exclude him
by thebongolian on Nov 2, 2009 10:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually I would really like to see that, more so I would like to see JB throw a hissy fit
on twitter of course
Look, it's a bird...no, it's a plane....oh never mind it's just fucking balloon boy
by Phil H. on Nov 2, 2009 11:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That wasn't a serious question was it?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 9:31 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rainbow Jersey has been excluded before
It wouldn’t be the first time. Mario Cipollini in 2003.
http://www.irishpeloton.com/
by irishpeloton on Nov 2, 2009 9:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is great
We are into Polemica already, and the season – let alone the race – hasnt started!
My two fave ideas from this are using Paris-Nice as a qualifier and / or having 8 man teams – both of which are genius, and hence neither of which will get adopted by the ASO
by addict on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Because ASO use logic
To have Paris-Nice as qualifying race then all the teams need to participate which creates the exact same logistic problem.
Unless there’s a qualifying race to Paris-ice. :p
And increasing the amount of teams means decreasing the chances of the teams being able to brig home trophies which means less sponsor exposure.
Not forgetting how much longer the carevan of cars will become.
Let’s just be happy that ASO is handling it without input from us, because that would become a real mess. :p :)
by OctaBech on Nov 2, 2009 10:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
“Let’s just be happy that ASO is handling it without input from us, because that would become a real mess. :p :)”
Apparently you don’t understand. This blog is actually a think tank. Our sole function is to toss ideas around and see what sticks to the wall or to see “if it floats”. Some of the greatest minds in cycling lurk here. It’s true.
Cancellara was robbed! There is none better.
by Mark Frank on Nov 2, 2009 10:31 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for the compliment. (:
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 10:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You're not lurking, so obviously I'm talking about you. (:
Or were you just enjoying being a member of the think tank.
Cancellara was robbed! There is none better.
by Mark Frank on Nov 2, 2009 10:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
As one of the greatest minds...
… may I suggest that bending the eligibility rules at Paris-Nice is likely to be a lot easier than bending the rules at the Tour – and some of the pro tour guys may actually be glad to be given the week off (Euskies, anyone?)
the length of the caravan is a fair point, but insane driving is insane driving irrespective of how many DS’s are involved in the “Paris Dakar while blackberrying jounalists and radioing cyclist while watching tv and being a short order chef and yelling at the race director” rally that goes on behind the peleton. These guys could have a crash in a closed circuit race of one.
Beyond that, I would think that the aim should be to get as many potential classification / stage winners in the race – if that is at the expense of 1 bag carrier per PC/SW I can live with that.
by addict on Nov 2, 2009 12:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Then let's ask Footon not to go
The average for the team in the mid 20’s and someone mentioned that most of the experienced guys have left leaving a team with boys in comparison to the rest of the field.
by joeyc on Nov 2, 2009 12:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was just wrinting an anti-Footon rant
they were irrelevant, then dopers, then irrelevant again
There are about four guaranteed teams which can be guaranteed to do nothing but show up come the tour. If (say) Cervelo gets uninvited so Lampre can perm their hair in ths spotlight, that would be a complete traversty
by addict on Nov 2, 2009 12:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also interesting. (Was looking if a GT may start with 8 riders. I think the UCI will tell somewhere they have to have 9 riders)
Conditions
1.2.049 The organiser shall, at least 60 days in advance, invite the team or rider by sending general information.
In the case of national, regional or club teams, he shall notify the national federation of the
invitation.
At least forty days before the race, an invited party shall inform the organiser in writing (letter, fax)
whether he/it wishes to participate in the race or whether he/it wishes to decline the invitation.
At least thirty days before the race, the organiser shall send an official UCI entry form to all invited parties whose participation he accepts. At the same time, he shall inform invited parties whose participation
he does not accept to that effect.
At least twenty days before the race, the invited party shall return to the organiser the original and
three copies of the duly completed entry form. The organiser shall keep the original of the form and
shall, within 48 hours of its reception, send the three other copies to each of addresses mentioned
thereon.
Source here
July 3rd Tour 2010. -60 days is 3rd may.
Giro starts… 8 may
But maybe this is for small races only..
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 2, 2009 10:36 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Cycling needs a championship series
Kinda like college football. BCS. LOL!!
But seriously, it seems that the TdF has become the default cycling championship/world series/world cup/ whatever you want to call it. It’s interesting that there’s not really a “qualifying” round to get in, other than decisions made by ASO based on what? PT status? That’s political. $$$? Very political.
It’s all politics…. and $$$, of course.
by MaestroDon on Nov 2, 2009 11:25 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Another problem we have here
…is that anyone with the $$ and the time can make a cycling team. Is there no regulation? Then they buy a few good riders, spreading the talent thinner and thinner among more and more teams. Where’s the snapping point?
Good thing: more riders get to ride pro. Bad thing: decisions like this.
by MaestroDon on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
20XX Dream Teams...
If money wasn’t an object, who would you pick for your team – max of 27 riders?
by joeyc on Nov 2, 2009 12:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don't actually think there's anything enormously wrong with that.
Otherwise you end up with some kind of franchise system.
Having said that, given what the UCI have said about the relative statuses of pro-tour & pro-conti teams we seem to be moving towards some kind of results-based promotion/relegation system, where money would still be an advantage.
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 12:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
the pro tour license is essentially a franchise
albeit there seems little value in buying in besides having more riders on your squad
by thebongolian on Nov 2, 2009 2:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I take your point
except that theUCI are supposedly evaluating each of the teams that apply for a PT licence against a list of (albeit mysterious) criteria, rather than selecting who is best qualified to fulfill a particular “slot”. In theory, if there aren’t enough suitable teams, they would just have fewer PT teams.
by civetta on Nov 2, 2009 5:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That would be a nice idea
just to be considered for a ProTour licence you would have to be in the top two or three Pro-Conti teams from the year before.
by Monty. on Nov 2, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Boring response / fun response
Boring:
Contador +26 riders to carry bottles.
Fun (ie non Contador).
How about a Cuddles / Schlecklet / Spartacus team? It would be strong in the classics, and it would set up the classic 1-2 in the mountains. Schlecklet to go, cuddles to wheel suck against the response. And cover you both ways – if the GT is TT dominated, thats cuddles; if it is climby, that is Cuddles. Plus the oppo would have to mark both. And Spartacus would give you two stage wins a race, guaranteed.
by addict on Nov 2, 2009 12:24 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
and I might mean "if it is climby, that is schlecky..."
Operator error in spades today…
by addict on Nov 2, 2009 12:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lampre
No one has mentioned them, but they could get non-invited.
If the Tour could disinvite Fuji-Servetto this year, GTs can disinvite PT teams next year also. Guaranteed non-performance will be a good enough reason, just as it was before.
And Lampre will be horrible. After Cunego and what’s left of IPR finishes the Giro, they won’t have anything left for the Tour.
The way I see it, Footon-Servetto and Lampre are both non-invited while Euskaltel is grudgingly allowed back with Sammy Sanchez on the starting line. Katyusha is not in jeopardy.
This leaves enough room for Radio Shack, Sky, BMC, and, lastly, Vaconsoleil.
by Mr 60 Percent on Nov 3, 2009 11:18 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Based on 'the contract' they are invited but based on perfomance they should be out.
Although they signed Petacchi for this season. If he can get back in form he could be a contender for the green jersey
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What about the whole grandaddy deal
Take a look at tours from back in the 90’s, who was there and still is?
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Which year do you want?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Aah you mean.. Lampre was there in 1995 and is still there..
That could also be an argument to let them in. Sentimentel choices
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did you not read the earlier posts?
Lampre and Footon were commented upon
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:21 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I don't see where Lampre is mentioned.
by Mr 60 Percent on Nov 3, 2009 11:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Use Ctrl+Find and search for Lampre
A whole section of opposing opinions.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Vlaanderen90 did
Use Ctrl-F (or Cmd-F) to search for Lampre on this page.
by tedvdw on Nov 3, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And can somebody explain to me why Footon-Servetto could sneak in the Giro last year?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:29 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
2008 you mean?
I’d say the organisers were ready to do block them, besides Ricco and a few other prominent men were in the team at the time.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I mean 2008..
But the Giro let them out.. Due going to the court, i’m really to lazy to look words up, thet got in the Giro.. On which ground did they get acces?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
What was amazing to me was that Fuji was allowed to ride the 2009 Giro.
by Mr 60 Percent on Nov 3, 2009 11:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lol.. I meant 2009.. D'uuuh. Brainfart..
I think.. I doubt now
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey genius minds! Could someone answer my question?
And can somebody explain to me why Footon-Servetto could sneak in the Giro last this year?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 5:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
The Arbitration Court has confirmed their preliminary decision in the case of Fuji-Servetto v. Race Organizers. The Court upheld the ASO’s exclusion of the team, because the ASO claimed that Fuji-Servetto, the successor team to the scandalous Saunier Duval, would damage the image of their races. The Arbritrators allowed that the ASO’s argument provided legimitate grounds for exclusion. Race organizers may exclude teams that they view as potentially damaging to their races, according to this decision. At the same time, the Arbitraters struck down the RCS’s argument in Italy that the organizers could exclude teams on their own discretion.
by Jens on Nov 3, 2009 5:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I knew I could trust your great mind! Thanks
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 5:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you mean Astana
Here’s why: Saunier Duval at the time had no problems with UCI or Wada but Astana did and they were the team to leave out.
In 2009 the Giro did try to block Fuji Servetto but lost the appeal from the team.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:39 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
That one!
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Last minute invite
If you remember, Astana were told with days to go that they were in at the expense of a smaller team due an infringement of the rules.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No rule infringement involved
It was a little Swiss team, N something something medical, and no-one really understood why they had got a Giro invite in the first place. With hindsight it looks like they were always a placeholder for Astana.
by Monty. on Nov 4, 2009 7:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Then how was the Tour able to block Fuji Servetto
if the Giro could not?
Or did Fuji just not bother try to go to the Tour given what happened the year before?
by Mr 60 Percent on Nov 3, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The contractual agreement from '07
If you can recall that it was the Tour that the team directors signed an agreement with ASO that meant ASO could disallow teams that didn’t sign or infringed on the agreement – that’s exactly what happend in Fuji’s case.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks. So, with no infractions last year, the Tour would be forced to accept Footon next year?
And, by the same logic, the Tour would be legally entitled to boot Euskaltel next year?
by Mr 60 Percent on Nov 3, 2009 11:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I like to hear that from somebody else..
Why wouldn’t they sign the thing?
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lack of sponsorship
Saunier Duval pulled the plug at the end of the season
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Let me first recall the contractuel agreement from '07..
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They were left out the Tour for: Image damage. The court agreed
Why they were allowed in the Giro remains a big mystery
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 12:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Another opinion
Not mine but this better explains:
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/17032009/58/fuji-servetto-omitted-tour.html
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing to do with that
It was a couple of very strange rulings from CAS. The then ProTour teams signed the one agreement with ASO, RSC and the UCI that would let them all ride the “historic” races until the end of 2010. But CAS ruled that ASO could exclude them from the Tour because they had given a good reason to do so, whereas RCS weren’t allowed to exclude them from the Giro because they had just said “we don’t want you.”
by Monty. on Nov 4, 2009 7:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Btw O/T
Joeyc: Your tagline.. Is that a quote or you?
“Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won.”
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
That's me and Norman Stadler.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just curious..
Does that mean I can’t talk about cycling because I never won a cyclingrace?
I try to understand the line obviously
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 11:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Tired of couch potatoes saying they know better
Winning isn’t everything, but it does set you apart as having the ability to put what you preach into practice. – Obviously this applies to events were you are solo like crits.
"Many poeple can talk but have not won any endurance events, I can talk because I won."
by joeyc on Nov 3, 2009 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Still confused but ok
What do you fear most?
1. coup d’etat
2. putsch
by Frinking on Nov 3, 2009 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure there'll be palmares following...
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 3, 2009 4:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
...Solo like crits?
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 3, 2009 2:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
FWIW
I am champ of the Block I Live On Crit Series, and I always race that solo . . .
by Sui Juris on Nov 3, 2009 3:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly,
so if your experience in riding and winning crits is that it’s a solo venture, well then, maybe that experience doesn’t relate to the level of pro cycling or give you any better right to comment on it than anyone else.
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 3, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
in that case
I’m champion of the Cobbled Alley I Live On Paris-Roubaix :-)
by civetta on Nov 3, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i usually
beat my wife
(go faster than her)
Moo
by Willj on Nov 3, 2009 5:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
After supplying her with a 39 kg bike. Yes we've seen
bra-vo, [clap clap] braaa-voo
by Jens on Nov 3, 2009 5:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well I'm the Boss of my beach :)
when there’s no-one else there…
"How strange it was to see men doing something beautiful. Something pointless and elegant." Tim Winton, 'Breath'
by Seahorse on Nov 3, 2009 4:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well just because you do the sport doesn't always mean you understand it better
which is evident in espn’s baseball analyst John Kruk…who is a moron and has hot dog meat for brains.
(yes I only wrote this post to bash Kruk)
Look, it's a bird...no, it's a plane....oh never mind it's just fucking balloon boy
by Phil H. on Nov 3, 2009 3:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I've always seen myself more as a couch-rutabaga
by Jens on Nov 3, 2009 4:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
When I hit the coach I'm much heavier than a rutabaga and I eally branch out
I’m a coach-pumpkin
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 3, 2009 4:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A couch coach-pumpkin?
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 3, 2009 4:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Chris can we get a damn spell check for this place?
No horn, watch for finger.
by sminer on Nov 3, 2009 4:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You sure?
Because Ted seems pretty on top of things, lately.
by Sui Juris on Nov 3, 2009 5:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Drew smells like soup
How long do you think it will take for him to find that?
by Jimbo... on Nov 3, 2009 6:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Footon-Servetto just got a bit less likely
Alberto Fernandez de la Puebla suspended for EPO use after an aimed control (er, what’s the correct phrase?) on Oct 15.
by tedvdw on Nov 5, 2009 10:04 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Ah yes, thanks. D’oh. Espresso time! Again!
by tedvdw on Nov 5, 2009 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
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