The Peloton & The Podium: A Win for the US and a Win for Wouter

I didn’t call for Tyler Farrar (Garmin-Cervelo) to win today’s stage but I am thrilled he was the first to cross the finish. How cute was is it that he lost his balance doing the no hands victory dance? (And I mean that in a most affectionate way). This is the American sprinter’s first ever Tour de France stage win and he delivered it to the USA on the 4^th of July! More importantly, he dedicated the win to Wouter Weylandt, his best friend and member of Leopard-Trek who was tragically killed during stage 3 of the 2011 Giro d’Italia. Teammate Thor Hushovd led him in for the win and will also retain the yellow jersey.  Romain Feillu (Vacansoleil-Dcm) and Joaquin Rojas Jose (Movistar) followed Farrar on today’s podium. Andy Schleck moved up to #8 in the General Classification  and Alberto Contador is still far behind at #69, putting him at 1:42 behind the race leader. 

So an American rider from an American team delivers a win on the 4th of July. Here's my question:  How will this be elevated in the US? I hope this gets some attention beyond the usual places. I would love to see this sport get more recognition in the US, especially considering we have some of the most talented and enduring riders the sport has to offer. We also have four US based pro teams and 10 American riders competing this year - the most in 25 years. I am anxious to see how it all plays out in mainstream media. 

Mark Cavendish (HTC-Highroad) and Thor Hushovd both lost points today after being penalized for a "tussle" during a high speed sprint. Initially Cavendish was seen nudging Hushovd with his helmet but it was later determined by officials that both committed infringements. Hushovd apparently left his line. Cavendish has a career 15 stage wins in the Tour de France and is competing for points needed to get the green jersey. There is no question he is one of the best sprinters in cycling. But...he's also a bad boy. There are certain things about his persona that I like and find - well - hot. He keeps things interesting. But today it cost him points toward the green jersey. 

Tomorrow takes us to Lorient - Mûr-de-Bretagne  for Stage 4. It’s considered a flat stage with a tough 2km climb to a summit finish in Brittany. Not suited for a true sprinter but rather may work in favor of Phillipe Gilbert.