An American in Paris

The Paris-Roubaix is a legendary race that’s been held for over 100 years. Riders thrash over ancient cobblestoned streets through small country villages in the French countryside. It’s a race of attrition as riders abandon and crash out from start to finish. The cobbles are unrelenting at times and the race is a true test of mental and physical strength. It’s refreshing to see superstar athletes get punished and fend for themselves in the harsh environment (sounds like fun huh?)

Yesterday’s race was a treat as the top names in racing all came to the front at the end and we saw the best ever finish by an American. George Hincapie finished 2nd to cycling’s new rock star, Tom Boonen. It was a respectable finish for George but I just wish he would have had a little better positioning for the final sprint…I knew he’d get caught on Flecha’s wheel as soon as Boonen attacked and sure enough that’s what happened. Either way, it was an exciting race. To see more great coverage of the European “spring classics” tune into OLN-TV for “Cyclysm Sundays”. Next up is the Amstel Gold Race this coming Sunday.