Michael Boogerd seized what little ounce of hometown sympathy wasn't already directed his way in anticipation of Sunday's Amstel Gold Race by announcing that this season will be his last. At 34 years old and in his 14th season, he probably hasn't shocked many people with the announcement. Personally I don't think he has a snowball's chance of scoring his 53rd career victory this weekend, but his DS had a nice, and I think very a-propos, description of Rabo's long-time classics ace:
"Michael Boogerd is still a fantastic athlete. I love to watch him race, because with him it comes straight from the heart," said team manager Theo de Rooij. "For Dutch cycling in general and for the Rabobank Cycling Teams more in particular it is a pity that the era comes to an end. `Boogie' has given a lot to Dutch cycling."