Announcing: Your Chance to Vote for the Euro Peloton Cycling Awards 2008

Starting on December 1, Euro Peloton will begin awarding "EuroPrimes" (pronounced preems) for the best and worst in various cycling catagories. Below is a list of designations, 20 in all. Each award will be delivered on a daily basis, starting on December 1. Between now and then, readers are encouraged to submit their nominations for consideration in each catagory. Please email all nominations to europeloton@gmail.com. Submissions are rolling in, and will be excepted up until posting time for each award, so it's never too late to weigh in on a given catagory!

Euro Peloton will be taking a break from posting while we compile data for the awards process. Posting will resume on a daily basis on December 1.

"EuroPrimes" 2008

1. Best rider overall

2. Best grand tour performance

3. Best climber

4. Best sprinter

5. Best one day rider

6. Breakthrough performance

7. Most promising young rider (U-25)

8. Best American rider

9. Best domestique

10. Most exciting race

11. Best Uniform

12. Best team

13. Worst luck

14. Most boring rider

15. Biggest cycling villian (rider)

16. Worst uniform

17. Biggest disappointment

18. Most boring major race

19. Worst team

20. Biggest dope (r)

A sincere thanks to all who participate, and look for the first award post on December 1, 2008.

Sincerely,

EP

Frank and Andy Schleck: Dynamic Saxo Bank-IT Factory Cycling Duo Poised for 2009 Cycling Domination

The Schleck's will hope to represent their tiny country well in 2009

Saxo Bank-IT Factory teammates and Luxembourgian brothers Frank and Andy Schleck will come into the 2009 season with new responsibilities for Bjarne Riis' Saxo Bank-IT Factory team. Gone over the off season is Tour de France winner Carlos Sastre, and with a lack of a clear team leader for stage races, both Schecks will be marked as team leaders in the grand tours, and in the smaller stage races of 2009. The two brothers will also contend in other races during the year, and the success of the Saxo team will in many ways depend on the performances of both of the brothers Schleck throughout the season.

In previous years, Frank Schleck was counted on to lead Bjarne Riis' team at all of the hilly classics. He took his first and only classics win to date at Amstel in 2006, while in 2007 he placed 2nd at Amstel and 3rd at the world's oldest classic, Liege-Bastogne-Liege. This past summer, Frank was ready to ride strong at the Tour, but ended up riding in support of teammate Sastre, who ended up winning the overall. In 2009, Frank will again need good form for the Ardennes classics, but he'll have to save a bit more for the 2009 Tour, where he and brother Andy will most likely be co-leaders.

Also important is that Frank, as he did toward the end of 2008, now must see his way through a series of investigations into possible doping allegations dating back to the 2006 season. The media scrutiny is sure to persist into 2009, as the Luxembourg cycling body continue to investigate Schleck's past actions with the notorious Dr. Fuentes.

As for little brother Andy, 2009 is a crucial year in his development as an elite stage racer. After a sublime 2007 where he won the best young rider's white jersey and took second overall at the Giro d'Italia, 2008 was a continuation in the career trajectory of the 23 year old phenom. He finished a strong 4th at Liege ahead of the Tour de France while riding in support of brother Frank, and a 12th overall and best young white jersey at the Tour in July hinted at the youngster's potential as a rider to watch for the future.

The 2009 season will in many respects be a make or break year for the youngest Schleck, as he looks to establish himself as a team leader on one of the most potent cycling teams in the world. He'll likely get a chance to lead at either the Dauphine Libere or Tour de Swiss, and his performance at either one of those races will help to foreshadow his performance at the Tour in July. Should Andy falter, his older brother may find himself alone, carrying to GC torch for the Saxo team on his own, along with all the pressure that comes with such a singular responsibility.

In allowing Carlos Sastre to leave for the new Cervelo TestTeam, Bjarne Riis has, for better or worse, put all his eggs into the Schleck basket. He'll depend on the Luxembourgian pair to carry his team throughout the year, with exception to Fabian Cancellara in early spring, who will do his usual damage in the cobbled classics. And while CSC is sure to collect a slew of wins throughout the year, at the end of the 2009 season, Saxo Bank-IT Factory's success (or failure) will mirror that of the brothers Schleck. At only 23 years old, hopefully young Andy is ready to step up . . . because in 2009, it's sink or swim for the budding grand tour star.

Mother Russia Rises Again Behind Staunch Katyusha Pro Cycling Team

The Katyusha pro cycling team will be one of the most talented for the 2009 season, as the Russian conglomerate ITERA will provide in excess of 15 million Euro to fund the newly founded Russian team. Katyusha management has wasted no time in acquiring top talent to take on some of Europe's best, and providing that the team can gel in the pre-season, a slew of wins throughout the year should be in the making.

For the early season classics, Katyusha will have a variety of cards to play. Geert Steegmans, comes over from Quik Step, and will lend a strong hand in the northern classics. The Belgian spent the past seasons learning from two-time Paris-Roubaix winner Tom Boonen, and is ready to take over leadership responsibilities during the tough cobbled-classics. For "la primevera", Milan-San Remo, it will be "Pippo" Pozzato who will fly the flag for the new Russian team. The Italian is coming off two years at Liquigas, where he took several big wins, including a stage win at Het Volk the Tour de France.

In the hilly Ardennes classics, Katyusha will hope that Pozzato can climb with the mountain men, but more likely it will be Christian Pfannberger who will lead the team at The Amstel Gold Race, La Fleche Wallone, and Liege-Bastogne-Liege. The 28 year old seems ready to make the leap to elite classics star, after having finished in the top ten at all three Wallonian classics last year. He'll have an excellent contingent for support, including climber Alexander Botcharov, and recently deposed Astana climbers Vladimir Gusev and Antonio Colom.

When the grand tours roll around, expect Robbie McEwen to be featured heavily on the flat stages,along side Pozzato, while Vladimir Karpets fills the role GC hope for the team. The Russian is a former white jersey winner in the Tour de France, and will enjoy full leadership responsibilities for Katyusha at the Tour, and possibly, the Giro. Gusev too will be protected in the grand tours, as the stocky Russian is a great time trialist and improving climber.

Finally, the Hungarian Lazlo Bodrogi will act as the prologue/time trial specialist for Katyusha, and will hope to steal an early leader's jersey at one of the grand tours or perhaps a smaller stage race like the Tour de Swiss. The four-time Hungarian national time trial champion and former winner of the Tour of Luxembourg will provide valuable leadership and horse power, and will be of particular value in the team trials at the grand tours as well.

The Katyusha pro cycling team has not been shy in pursuing the best talent for the 2009 season. An interesting group of cycling protagonists have gathered for the inaugural season of the Russian conglomerate, and nothing short of multiple victories will be accepted. In fact, with the group of riders that they have signed, the Katyusha team may find itself as one of the most intriguing teams for the 2009 season. As long as the wins keep coming But with 15 million Euros finding the operation, how could the team not succeed?

Classics Clout: Saxo Boss Riis Brings Back Frank Hoj for 2009 Classics Season

In Varese, Italy at this past year's world championships: Hoj happy as always and ready to ride! His teammate, Matti Breschel, would go on to finish third that day.

Frank Hoj, the classics-savvy 14 year veteran, has signed with Bjarne Riis' Saxo Bank-IT Factory outfit for the 2009 season. A lighthearted yet dependable workhorse, Hoj will prove valuable during the early season, as an important gregario to Fabian Cancellara and Stuart O'Grady at the cobbled classics. He'll also likely fill a key support role at the Ardennes classics, as he plays lead out man for the two Schlecks and Matti Breschel.

Hoj last rode for Bjarne Riis in 2004, as a domestique to several riders, including Bobby Julich, Ivan Basso, and Michele Bartoli. He also put in some results for himself, and his 8th place at the Tour of Flanders in 2004 showed his potential as a classics strongman. He moved on to ride for Gerolsteiner and Cofidis over the next two seasons, but injuries and poor form doomed each year since for the Dane.

So now, he returns to Bjarne Riis in hopes of being able to find the form he had back in 2004. He'll have access to the best equipment, trainers, and coaches, and he'll be riding with some of the world's best cyclists. Hoj has long been known as a consummate team player, and a valuable asset in any difficult race. Less of a stage racing talent, he is most at home in tough conditions on difficult one day parcours. His bigger frame allows him to power through and over cobbles, while his experience helps him to conserve energy and reserve his strength for the finish. All of these talents will be of great value to his new teammates, especially Cancellara.

Perhaps best of all for Hoj in 2009 is he'll be able to have some chances to win for himself on the opportunistic Saxo Bank squad. Riis preaches teamwork around every corner, and the Dane believes in providing opportunities for all team members to win. If Hoj has great form in a given early season semi-classic like Nokere-Koerse, Het Volk or Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne, there is a good chance that Riis would ask the rest of the team to work for Hoj.

Later on in the season at Flanders, Roubaix and the hilly Wallonian classics, Hoj will mostly have to work for teammates. But if he is fortunate to get into an early breakaway at Flanders or Roubaix, it would not be impossible for Hoj to dream of taking the win by time trialing away from the field. Quick-Step's Stijn Devolder was able to use teammate Tom Boonen to draw attention away from himself at Flanders in 2008, and Hoj could use the same tactic with Cancelara or O'Grady in 2009.

Even if Hoj doesn't manage to win a race, it won't matter. His tireless work race in and race out will earn the respect of both management and the rest of the team, and at the end of a long day's work Hoj will still wear the same gap-toothed smile that he is known so well for. His positive attitude will keep spirits high all season, as one of cycling's elder statesmen embarks on what may be his final season as a professional.

Leonardo Piepoli B Sample Positive: CONI Should Recommend Lifetime Ban

Liars like Piepoli and Schumacher should be gone from the sport for good

Leonardo Piepoli has stubbornly refused to admit that he doped in this past year's Tour de France, and after a lengthy waiting period, the Italian's B sample has also tested positive for the next generation EPO, CERA. Piepoli, having failed to admit his transgression even in the face of overwhelming evidence, should be banned for life from the sport of cycling. Already vulnerable and searching for credibility, the sport of cycling doesn't need dishonest scoundrels like Piepoli involved. Kick him out for life, and send a message that dishonesty will not be tolerated any longer.

Other riders have tested positive in 2008, and many have found the inner strength to admit what they did. On the one hand it is wrong to cheat, but it is even worse not to admit what you have done, especially when you are caught red handed. Riccardo Ricco, currently on suspension for cheating along with Piepoli (his roommate at the Tour), at least was able to stand in front of the world media and admit what he did. At least there was a shred of contrition, a small glimpse of shame.

The same should be said for Bernard Kohl, the disgraced star of the now extinct Gerolsteiner team. Kohl too was found positive for CERA, and instead of denying all and insisting on a B sample test, Kohl instead professed his guilt and vowed to except whatever punishment that was to be meted out to him. Again, it is deplorable that he cheated in the first place, but at least he didn't compound the problem with even more lies.

Kohl's teammate, Stephan Schumacher, is in the same situation as Piepoli. He has yet to come forward and admit his guilt, instead hoping he'll be able to slip through the loopholes in the system. He even has had the nerve to insist that his contract with Quick Step is still valid. Such arrogant and disrespectful behavior as that exhibited by Schumaker should be met with the harshest consequences. Ban him for life, simple as that.

Until cycling deals harshly with the true liars and cheats of the peloton, fans will continue to have to endure false results and deflating dishonesty. Now more than ever, cycling is embracing a transparent and honest sport. The one missing piece is a take no prisoners, no holds barred attitude concerning those that can't even admit their wrongdoing even when it clearly exists. For my part, I hope the only time I see Piepoli is on retrospectives that examine the worst of cycling history.

Last Man Standing: Why Jan Ullrich Must Make a Comeback to Cycling

Unfinished business: Having the big diesel back in pro cycling again would make a lot of cycling fans happy

With the recent comebacks (or comeback attempts) of Jose Gutierrez, Roberto Heras, Lance Armstrong, Ivan Basso, Floyd Landis, Alexander Vinokourov, and Raul Alcala, one huge name has not yet decided to try his hand at a return to pro cycling: Jan Ullrich. "Der Kaiser" has been retired now since the infamous Operacion Puerto affair broke just ahead of the 2006 Tour de France, and only recently has settled all of his matters in court.

Now that he has a clean slate legally, the time has come for big Jan to consider a return to the sport. At only 34 years of age, the German still has several good years left, and 2009 is as good a year as any to mount a comeback. Need more reasons for Ulle to return? Here are three huge ones for you . . .

1. Money: Ullrich has no doubt spent a sizable sum of his nest egg in the past years defending his name against doping allegations. He has won most of his battles in court, but the victories have come at a big price. Ullrich has a few years left to make the big money of a front-line cycling star, and he needs to take advantage while there is still time.

2. Jan Ullrich bikes: Ullrich recently launched his own brand of bicycle, but he introduced his product at a time when his name was being dragged through the mud by media and fans alike. With a successful comeback,. Ullrich would be able to raise awareness about his bike line, and restore some credibility to the Ullrich brand.

3. Unfinished business: When he left the sport ahead of the 2006 Tour, Ullrich looked on track to once again claim the yellow jersey of the Tour de France. His form gradually improved in the Giro, and all signs pointed to a dominant performance in the time trial-heavy 2006 Tour. It was not meant to be though, and Ullrich retired without having had the chance to take his second overall win in France. In coming back, the German could use 2009 as a year to build his form, with an eventual 2010 objective for the Tour. The time is now though, as even one more year off the bike would proabably be too much for the aging star to recover from.

With the arrival of his mentor and long time coach, Rudy Pevenage to Rock Racing, the path seems clear for Ullrich. Ride in 2009 for the American team, re-build his form, and then plan an all out assault on the Tour de France in 2010. Behind the staunch financial backing of Rock's Michael Ball and the TLC of coach Pevenage, Ullrich would have all the tools necessary for a comeback. Most importantly, he would have at least one more chance to take on former rival Lance Armstrong, who despite what he says WILL be back again in 2010. Lastly, if Alexander Vinokourov can plan a comeback, than surely Ullrich can too.

Cristina Perez, Wife of Eufamio Fuentes, Claims She Can Ruin Spanish Sport

As reported from multiple outlets, Cristina Perez, the wife of infamous Operacio Puerto doctor Eufamio Fuentes, has claimed that what she knows about the scandal could bring Spanish sports to its knees. Calling herself a "Pandora's Box," Perez claims that many medals won by the Spanish at the 1992 Olympics were thanks to the work of her husband. this comes as no surprise to cycling fans, who have long known that the Spanish are among the most dirty countries when it comes to doping their athletes.

The problem with Perez's claims are that they come very late in the game. The Puerto dossier has been closed for over a year, after a spanish judge decided that the evidence was inadmissable. Spanish athletes throughout the nation must have breathed a collective sigh of relief, as the evidence against them was sufficient.

There were certain pro cyclists that were obviously caught up in Puerto, including Francesco Mancebo, Alejandro Valverde, Oscar Sevilla, and Jose Gutierrez. Another high profile rider linked to the scandal was Alberto Contador, the 2007 Tour de France champion. Contador repeatedly denied any involvement though, and was never sanctioned.

Hearing comments like thosemade by Perez will make cycling fans crazy, as there is nothing that will be done by authorities. The Puerto case is closed, and it will not be re-opened. All of the riders above, as well as many additional athletes ot named here, will continue to derive a living from cycling despite the fact that they cheated in past years. All this is a shame for the sport of cycling, which is trying to clean itself up after years of doping within the sport.

Rock Racing Roster Confirmed: New Venom for 2009

Rock Racing announced their 2009 roster this week, and the controversial American team has added significant firepower for the new season. Team owner Michael Ball has managed to poach several top riders from the now defunct Toyota-United team, including fast man Ivan "Cuban Missile" Dominguez and time trial specialist Chris Baldwin. Also joining the team will be Australian sprinter Baden Cooke. Cooke is an interesting rider, despite a down last two seasons. In joining the American squad, Cooke will look to jump start his career again, with strong support from his new teammates.

Returning to Rock for another season are reigning US pro champ Tyler Hamilton, every man Mike Creed, US crit champ Rahsaan Bahati, Oscar Sevilla, Victor Hugo Pena, and Fred Rodriguez. Also coming aboard are tow powerful Spaniards, Francesco Mancebo, and Jose Gutierrez. Mancebo and Gutierrez, both embroiled in the Operacion Puerto affair a few years back, will hope to regain the form they had before being forced out of European cycling the last two years.

The 2009 Rock roster will be among the most powerful in America, and in some cases, the world. They'll have strong time trialists (Hamilton, Baldwin), GC threats (Hamilton, Mancebo, Gutierrez, Sevilla), climbers (Hamilton, Gutierrez, Mancebo, Sevilla, Grajales) and a big stable of fast finishers (Bahati, Rodriguez, Dominguez, Cooke). In fact, at the upcoming Tour of California, the venom green clad squad will be among the most dangerous entered, with legitimate threats in all disciplines.

If 2008 was the coming out party for Rock racing, 2009 promises to be the coronation for Michael Ball's squad. 30+ wins on the season is very likely, and they'll be considered among the best teams at the Tours of California, Utah, Missouri, and Philly Week. With a bit of luck, Rock Racing could be the top NRC team for 2009, and also will be able to once again threaten at the US crit, time trial, and road race championships.

Increasingly, Rock Racing really are living up to their motto, "Here to Stay." Michael Ball continues to gamble on controversial riders, and it seems as though most of his gambles pay off. Sure, Kayle Leogrande was an experiment gone wrong, but Mancebo, and to a lesser extent Gutierrez, seem ready to break out in 2009. If Cooke stays healthy, Rock will be among the most feared teams of 2009.

2009 Giro d’Italia: Italian Grand Tour Looks to Top Tour de France Talent

The 2009 Giro d’Italia is shaping up to be one to remember, with some of the biggest stars in cycling set to contend the first grand tour of 2009. Among the cycling luminaries ready to wage war next May include 2008 Tour de France winner Carlos Sastre, American comebacker Lance Armstrong, and Ivan “Il Terrible” Basso, fresh off a two year suspension for involvement in the Operacion Puerto scandal of 2007.

With a few more high profile entries, the Giro may find itself as the deepest grand tour in terms of talent assembled for 2009. Italian mainstays Danilo Di Luca, Gilberto Simoni, Stefano Garzelli, and Damiano Cunego are sure to take the start in Venice, and an appearance from Astana’a Levi Leipheimer and Andreas Kloden should be expected as well. Should either Alejandro Valverde, Denis Menchov, or Christian Vande Velde decide to contest the Giro, the July Tour de France could find itself overshadowed by its Italian counterpart.

That the Giro seems to be gaining in popularity among the world’s best cyclists should be applauded, as the Italian tour is arguably the most beautiful of the three grand tours. France may have invented the bicycle, but it is undoubtedly the Italians that have perfected and immortalized it. Behind 50+ years of international dominance, the Italians have been more proficient than any other country in victories, dwarfing Spain, Germany and France. Most recently, the Italians put on a clinic at the world championships in Varese, placing three riders in the top five, and taking their third consecutive rainbow jersey.

Beginning in Venice in 2009, this coming year’s Giro should once again prove exciting and challenging, with a team time trial and forays into the Dolomites and Alps. The Italian countryside, at once beautiful and remote, will provide the backdrop to the drama of both Armstrong’s and Basso’s grand tour comebacks, as the insatiable Italian tifosi line the roads cheering their heroes. Providing the major favorites come to the race with good form and health, the Giro should be one of the best races of 2009.

Silence-Lotto Leaves Cadel Evans Alone Again for 2009 Tour de France Attempt

Lack of team support will have Evans grimacing again in 2009

The 2008 Tour de France was a difficult one for Cadel Evans. Although the Australian was on form and motivated to take to the top step of the podium at the Tour, things didn't work according to plan for the Silence-Lotto leader. A crash in the 9th stage of the Tour slowed Evans down, and he was over matched and outgunned in the high mountains by the powerful CSC team. Using brilliant tactics, CSC was able to isolate Evans during the mountain stages, and attack him ruthlessly until he was unable to follow. The eventual benefactor was Caros Sastre, who took the win on Alpe-d'Huez and never looked back.

As the Tour wound down and Evans fielded question after question about his inability to win the Tour, the Australian bristled at the suggestion that his form was not good enough. To Evans, there was one over riding factor that ed to his shortfall at the 2008 Tour: The team the Silence-Lotto surrounded him with for the three week event. Management was able to secure the services of Yaroslav Popovich to help Evans in the mountains, but the Ukrainian had an off performance at the Tour, and was unable to be of much help to Evans when he needed it most.

When teams came calling for Evans with contract offers in late summer, the Silence-Lotto management vowed to procure more climbers for Cadel's attempt at the 2009 Tour. Feeling confident that he would have a stronger supporting cast in 2009, Evans stayed with Lotto. Initially, things looked good for the Belgian squad, as they were able to sign the Tour KOM leader Bernard Kohl. But a doping positive a few weeks later, followed by an admission of guilt, saw Kohl suspended for two years.

Meanwhile, Popovich too has flown the Silence-Lotto coop, choosing to sign a one year deal with Johan Bruyneel's Astana team. In signing the Dutchman Thomas Dekker ahead of the world championships, Lotto has given Evans a decent support man for the mountains, but Dekker is unproven at the Tour, and also has a history of injuries. So, like in 2008, Evans will have to go to the Tour with an inferior team. If he wants to take top honors in France next July, he'll have to do it with his own legs.

All this is a shame for Evans, and leaves him with little chance at victory in 2009. The soft-spoken Aussie deserves better, and is running out of years to try for the overall win at the Tour. Next year, he'll face a highly motivated Alberto Contador and a stacked team Astana, as well as a more experienced Andy Schleck and his all-powerful Saxo Bank-IT Factory juggernaut. Additionally, last year's winner Carlos Sastre will be back, with a decent SCS TestTeam to support his Tour defence. Somewhere in Australia, Cadel Evans must feel significant frustrations regarding his team choice for 2009. Unfortunately, he'll have no other choice than to ride his heart out again in 2009, and hope that he is able to follow the right wheels. For Evans, 2009 will be another lonely trip in the Tour, with minimal team support, which is too bad.

Roberto Heras in Search of Contract; No Takers Thus Far for Ex-Armstrong Domestique

Years ago, Heras led out Armstrong. Perhaps the time has come for Armstrong to return the favor

Roberto Heras has made it clear over the last year that he would like a chance to ride again in the professional cycling peloton. An excellent climber and dependable team worker, Heras has more than proved himself as a capable rider, despite the fact that he has been found guilty of doping in the past. Thus far, the Spaniard has not been tendered a contract offer, while unsanctioned, yet guilty riders continue to earn a living from racing professionally.

Heras' situation is a shame, as the Spaniard has served his two year suspension for doping at the 2005 Vuelta. There is no reason he shouldn't be given another chance to ply his trade as a top-flight climber, especially considering that there are other riders in the peloton who have not yet been held accountable for their past transgressions. Of suspected riders not yet sanctioned, Oscar Sevilla and Alejandro Valverde are the most glaring examples.

Currently, Heras has just completed the Ruta de los Conquistadores, a four day mountain bike race through the rugged Costa Rican countryside. With a respectable 8th place finish at the event, Heras has proven that his fitness is good and he is ready to rejoin the pro ranks. Why teams like Rock Racing, OUCH or even Silence-Lotto haven't tendered an offer to the 34 year old is still a mystery.

The problem in cycling in regard to sanctioning seems to be that once a rider is held accountable for doping, they are ostracized from the world of cycling even after their suspension has been served. Other riders have suffered this same fate, including Jorg Jaschke and Patrick Sinkewitz. It seems a shame that a rider serves their suspension, only to find that there are no teams that are willing to provide a chance for redemption.

Roberto Heras deserves a chance to ride again as a professional bike racer. Whether this will happen is still up for debate. Heras has never admitted to doping, and that may be the problem. Riders who have come clean, like David Millar and Eric Zabel, have found that there are teams willing to take them back into the fold. Heras may be best served to admit that he doped,and ask for forgiveness from the cycling world. Heras helped Lance Armstrong win at least two Tours de France, perhaps now is the time for Armstrong to extend the olive branch to an ex-colleague. It may be Heras' last chance.

Tour of Georgia Cancelled for 2009 as Organizers Regroup

The Tour de Georgia won't happen in 2009, as organizers have decided to regroup for 2010. This is somewhat surprising news, considering that Lance Armstrong's comeback was expected to "save" the race from extinction. However, Armstrong never resolutely committed to riding the April stage race, and his lack of support clearly sped up the race's demise.

While the situation is not a great one for Georgia, it is by no means a deathblow. Organizers lost money on the event in 2007 and 2008, and title sponsors were few and far between over the course of the last several years. With a full year to search for a big sponsor, the Georgia organizers have bought themselves some time to revive the race. While it won't be easy, the search for a sponsor may be easier if and when America and the world come out of the current financial downturn.

Now that Georgia is out of the picture for domestic racing, the Tours of California, Utah, and Missouri take center stage for American cycling fans. The Tour of California is a stable and solid event, especially with the recent partnership between it and ASO, the organizers of the Tour de France. Missouri and Utah however, are in need of increased exposure if they are to survive long term as stage races.

The Tour of Utah has had problems in the past, even having once to cancel due to lack of funds back in 2007. Behind a resurgent management team, Utah was back in 2008, but not with as good a field as California or Missouri. If Utah is to continue as a stage race, organizers will have to find a way to attract a more powerful field of riders. Great talent leads to bigger media exposure, and eventually to more sponsorship dollars.

The Tour of Missouri, though also in danger over the next year, is a bit more stable than Utah. The race was able to attract some high-powered Pro Tour level teams, which led to competitive racing and exciting stage finishes. Although nowhere on the level of California, Missouri nevertheless seems to be improving year after year. Hopefully, the three remaining big time stage races in America will continue, despite the demise of Georgia.

Lars Boom: Another Young Rabobank Ace in the Hole for 2009

Back in September, 22 year old Dutchman Lars Boom announced that he will pour himself into the road discipline in 2009, after a successfull stint as one of the Netherland's top cyclo-crossers in 2008. Boom holds all three Dutch national jerseys (time trial, road, cyclo-cross), and team sponsor Rabobank will hope that the Dutchman can make a successful transition over to road racing.

Boom will join fellow Dutchman Robert Gesink, also 22, on a resurgent Rabobank squad that has big plans for 2009. Boom, the 2007 U-23 world time trial champion, has the potential to be a leader on the Rabobank team. Over his short career, Boom has made a lasting impression, and all signs point to a successful 2009 on the road.

Having Robert Gesink as a teammate will serve Boom well, as the 2008 Rabobank revelation will be able to assist Boom with transitioning to big time European racing. Hopefully Boom will be included on the Tour of California team, as the early season stage race will give him an important first taste of elite road racing. And after he gets his feet wet in the early season, Boom will be avaluable asset to Gesink as the lanky climber tries his hand at the Tour de France for the first time.

Boom will continue to race cyclo-cross through the winter, and should arrive fit and motivated at the beginning of the 2009 road season. And as long as he can stay healthy, Boom should be seen on a handful of podiums throughout the year. And when the world championships roll around next fall in Mendrisio, Switzerland, Boom may be on the list of favorites in the time trial discipline.

After a tough 2008 season that saw Dutch star Thomas Dekker leave the orang-clad Rabobank team, things are looking up for the team of veteran's Oscar Freire and Denis Menchov. While Freire and Menchov garner big wins and headlines, both Boom and Gesink will be able to ride with relatively little pressure. Then, as the mid-season point arrives, each of the youngsters will be able to come to the front and seek out wins of their own for the Rabobank team. if all goes to plan, the orange and blue of the Rabobank outfit could be seen at the front of the peloton throughout the year, from February through October.

Tour of California: Future Grand Tour?

American fans are hungry for a bigger Tour of California

Although only three years old, the Tour of California has quickly grown into a top-ranked stage race for the world's best cyclists. Behind excellent organization, challenging race routes and careful team selection, the ToC has been able to establish itself as a destination race for many top pros. Ten years ago, the best riders from Europe wouldn't even think of coming to America for a stage race. Today though, thanks to Medalist Sports (the organizers of California, Georgia, and Missouri), and Amgen (the title sponsor), there are a dearth of excellent riders coming across the pond to compete at California, and to a lesser extent (for now), the tours of Georgia and Missouri.

So what is the next step for the ToC? Already race organizers have chosen to expand the race to bookend weekends, making it nine days long. It was a prudent and necessary step for the race organization to take, as the overall route now feels more like a true stage race. An uphill finish on the final stage also lends credibility for the eventual overall winner. Perhaps a race like the ToC can begin to consider whether it wants to become a three week grand tour someday. Now, before you say "Impossible!", let's review the argument for such a development.

The Tour of California is in an ideal spot on the racing calender to make the leap to three week stage race. There are few other races happening in February, so the talent required for a grand tour would be relatively easy to recruit. Plus, there are few places in the world better suited to an early season stage race than California. The weather is usually decent even in winter, and far warmer than northern Europe in February. Riders looking to prepare for the Giro would be able to ride the Tour of California as preparation. Many riders have used the Giro d'Italia as preparation for the Tour de France, and California could serve the same purpose for the Giro or early season northern classics.

Another compelling argument for a grand tour in California is the fact that the cycling off season is getting shorter and shorter. Increasingly, the racing schedule is impinging on the "off" months of November and December, and most teams are currently planning training camps as early as November 30th. Why couldn't many of those teams just start their training camps in early December with the understanding that for eight to ten riders on the team, the Tour of California would be a major goal in two months time?

Finally, and perhaps most compellingly, America is long overdue for a grand tour. Cycling in America is gaining in popularity, and the crowds for bike races, especially in California, are huge each year. Not only would a grand tour survive in America, it would thrive. Unlike in the Vuelta a Espana, where there are seldom large crowds, California consistently attracts a huge fan contingent. This leads to better sponsor exposure and to increased funds for the race. In fact, there were so many teams interested in riding the ToC last year, that race organizers had to turn several high profile teams away, including Cadel Evans' Silence-Lotto squad.

The Tour of California, at least for the next few years, will likely remain as a nine day event. Race organizers have been careful to bring the event along slowly, and have built on their success year after year. But sooner or later the reality will become clear that the Tour of California is made for grand tour status. And while it may take awhile to happen, the ToC seems destined to become a three week event.

Dominique Rollin Moves Up, Signs with Cervelo TestTeam for 2009

Dominique Rollin announced himself as a strongman to watch for the future at last year's Tour of California's queen stage, a 217 kilometer slog in terrible conditions down the coast from Seaside to San Luis Obispo. Rollin, then riding for the now defunct Toyota United team, escaped from a select group a time trialed home for the biggest win of his career. The Canadian showed his qualities as a tough one day stylist made for difficult conditions, and he was rewarded for 2009 with a contract to ride for the new Cervelo TestTeam.

Rollin will have chance to ride alongside some of the best cyclists in the world, and he'll also have a chance to compete in some of cycling's toughest one day races. His ability to outride lesser riders in tough conditions will serve him well at the spring classics in Europe. Indeed, with good form and some luck, Rollin could find himself in contention at the Tour of Flanders, or even Paris-Roubaix.

Rollin's first full year in Europe will probably see him learning more than winning, and taking his lumps along the way. But at only 27 years old, Rollin's best years are ahead of him. Providing that he can adjust to the style of racing in Europe, "The Weapon of Mass Destruction" could wreak havoc on the European peloton in the near future.

For those that have never met Rollin, it should be stated that there are few cyclists in the sport who are as accommodating and personable. Always smiling and a willing domestique when the need arises, Rollin will be invaluable to Carlos Sastre in the grand tours. His can do attitude and positive outlook will work wonders for the Cervelo team, as it begins finding its identity within the European peloton. Rollin too will be looking for his Euro identity, as he looks to continue improving with an eye, someday, on taking a European classic.

Rumors Link Jan Ullrich Comeback to Rock Racing, Manager Refutes Claims

Could Ullrich (here riding in his nation's colors) really be thinking comeback?

Cyclingnews.com reported yesterday that rumors have been swirling around the possible comeback of Jan Ullrich to professional cycling. Rock Racing is the team that Ullrich has been linked to, but "Der Kaiser's" manager has denied that any comeback is in the works. However, with Armstrong, Landis and Basso returning in 2009, is it that much of a stretch to imagine Ullrich returning?

At 34 years old, Ullrich, if he wants, could mot definitely come back to pro cycling. An enormous talent, Ullrich's problem as a competitor was with his mind, not his body. Lack of self-discipline and off season weight gain hounded him throughout his career, and he was never able to defeat Armstrong at the Tour de France. A former Olympic road champion and two time world time trial champion, Ullrich had an amazing career despite falling short against Armstrong year after year.

That the big German has been linked to the Rock Racing team is no surprise. Ullrich was cast out of the sport in 2006 amid doping allegations, and his current rogue status would jibe well with the outlaw Rock outfit. Additionally, Ullrich would enjoy riding with wily veterans Tyler Hamilton, Santi Botero and Oscar Sevilla. Sevilla was Ullrich's former teammate at T-Mobile, and was also banished for a time from cycling for his own links to Operacion Puerto.

Jan Ullrich, whether he wants to admit it or not, has unfinished business in the world of professional cycling. He was unable to leave the sport on his terms, and no doubt he often thinks about the negative connotations surrounding his exit from cycling's professional ranks. But there is still time for redemption for the fallen hero if he chooses to pursue a comeback. Maybe he would not be able to return and win, but he would still be able to compete and then retire his way, not that way of the governing body.

Jan Ullrich's fans will cross their fingers and hope for a comeback, knowing that Ullrich brings an attitude and feel to cycling that few other riders do. He is at once likable and engaging, but at the same time frustratingly erratic and unpredictable as a rider. But when he is on form, there are few riders that strike bigger fear into the hearts of their opponents. As he sits reading the news papers in Germany, hopefully Ullrich will decide to give it one more shot, if only for German cycling and his rabid fans.

Garmin-Chipotle's Steven Cozza Rider to Watch for 2009

Cozza doing what he does best: Leading an early break and putting a hurting on the main field

Garmin-Chipotle's Steven Cozza, known by some as "The Peoples Champion," recently completed a successful 2008 season for his Garmin-Chipotle squad. At only 23 years old, Cozza seems on the precipice of greatness, and 2009 could see the Californian make an even bigger impression on the world cycling scene. An outspoken critic of cheating and dopers, Cozza is exactly what cycling needs over the next decade to help restore it's tarnished image as a sport full of cheaters.

Although 2008 didn't see Cozza take to the top step of any podiums, it was still a successful year for the Garmin rider. He rode strong in the early season at the Tour of California, and was often seen pushing the leading breakaway or riding at the front of the chasing pack. His kamakazi attitude showed clearly throughout the race, as he fearlessly rode as intensely as he could for each stage.

Bad luck bit Cozza shortly after, as the Petaluma, California native was struck down with a broken collar bone at the beginning of the European classics season at the Three Days of De Panne stage race. Therefore, he was unable to take the start line at Flanders and Roubaix. Nevertheless, after a stint back in the states to regroup himself, Cozza seemed ready to do battle again, and proved his strength at the world championships in Varese, Italy, with an amazing top 25 in the elite road race. Using his endurance and tactical sense, Cozza was able to make the final split. And although he wasn't able to stay with the final surges, it was apparent that the youngster is getting closer and closer to competing with, and perhaps beating the world's best.

During the off season, Cozza will concentrate on fishing, motor-cycle riding and being with family, before preparing once again for a long cycling season. As Garmin team director Jonathan Vaughters has said many times, Cozza has the potential to be one of the best domestiques in the history of American cycling. I would go one better than Vaughters, and say that Cozza has the ability to one day try for the overall in a Race like Tirreno-Adriatico or, with some more climbing work, the Tour de Swiss.

In terms of his one day potential, Cozza's performance both at the world championships and the early season Monte Paschi l'Eroica Italian classic showed that he can thrive on a variety of courses and conditions. But it was his impressive 10th place at the opening prologue time trial at the Tour of California that truly showcased his natural ability as a top-flight time trialist. If he can continue to progress as a time trialist, Cozza may one day find himself as a national or even world time trial champion. A run at the yellow jersey in the Tour isn't out of the question either. For Cozza, the sky truly is the limit, as he continues to improve season over season. For that reason, he'll be one of EuroPeloton's favorite riders over the next few years. Ciao Cozza, and forza!!!

Doing the Double: Will Cycling Ever Have Another Giro/Tour Winner in the Same Year?

Although doped, Pantani claimed the Giro/Tour double in 1998

The last rider to win both the Giro'd Italia and Tour de France in the same year was the Italian Marco Pantani. 1998 was the year, and Pantani was able to dominate in the giro in May and then destroy a then very young Jan Ullrich in the mountains at the Tour. Anyone who is a serious cycling fan knows that Pantani was doped to the maximum that year, but managed not to get caught. Back then, it was relatively easy to elude the drug testers.

In 2006, Ivan Basso seemed poised to do the double after a dominating win in the Giro that had Gilberto Simoni claiming that Basso was an "Extra-Terrestrial." Basso vehemently railed against Simoni's claims, only to be denied a start at the Tour in July when his name was implicated in the now infamous Operacion Puerto debacle. Since then, no one has even come close to the mythical Giro-Tour double.

So who will be the next rider to challenge for the double. Further, is it even possible to try to win the double. Alberto Contador was able to win both the Giro and Vuelta this past season, but each of those races are far apart from each other, giving a rider time to recover from the massive effort required in a grand tour. There are a small handful of riders that could try for the double, but in today's day and age, it is no small undertaking.

Contador is the most obvious candidate to try the double. A lithe climber and budding tactician, Contador possesses all of the necessary qualities for a run at both titles. He won't even try to double in 2009, but if he can get another Tour win next year why wouldn't he take on the double challenge in 2010? Basso is another possibility, but he has to come back first. He has been away from the top level of the sport for a long time, and he'll need to prove himself in 2009 before there is any talk of him pursuing the double.

After the two aforementioned riders, there aren't many other possible candidates out there that aren't young and untested. Of the very young generation though, there are a few riders that could one day try for the most difficult double in all of cycling. Garmin-Chipotle's young Irish climber Dan Martin may be one. An explosive climber, the 22 year old Martin has been tipped by Garmin director Jonathan Vaughters as a rising grand tour star, and with the proper tutelage, he may be able to hope to one day ride into the record books.

Robert Gesink, the young Dutchman on the Rabobank squad is another who could one day try for the double. Long and lean, Gesink will be a force if he can find the time trialing skills to match his climbing. Also only 22, he has a few years to hone his form before the real pressure of winning encroaches on his career. Finally, maybe Liquigas will find Roman Kreuzinger up to the task in the next few years. At 22 he is one of the most accomplished young riders today in stage races, after taking the overall at this year's Tour de Swiss and an amazing 13th overall at this past year's Tour. If he continues to progress, the Czech rider could one day find himself as a possible double contender.

The Giro/Tour double has been and will remain as one of the most mythical accomplishments in all of cycling. Very few riders can ever dream of achieving the feat, and without luck and the proper circumstances, it is an impossibility. Hopefully one of the above riders will amaze the cycling public by attempting to accomplish the famed double. For the short term though, there doesn't seem to be a legitimate double contender for 2009.

Better Late than Never: Lance Armstrong to Ride Classics in 2009

In what seems like a lifetime ago, Lance won the Fleche Wallonne in 1996. 13 years later he'll hope to win it again

Throughout his "first" career, Lance Armstrong was revered for his performances in one race: the Tour de France. Each year, he would quietly prepare for the grande boucle, shunning the spring classics and the Giro d'Italia. Many of his detractors during those years (myself included) argued that Armstrong was a one trick pony, incapable of contending in multiple races throughout the season. Sure, he dominated at the Tour, but where were his other wins?

The Great Eddy Merckx won 16 monuments, and managed to win each one at least twice, in addition to multiple grand tour victories. Armstrong on the other hand took a grand total of none. Zero. And the reason wasn't that he wasn't capable, but rather that he never really tried. He was so consumed with winning the Tour that he never allowed himself to try to contend in any other races. But it appears that all that will change for 2009, at least according to Armstrong.

The Texan, claiming that he not trying to be sneaky, or "coy" in his words, says he still hasn't decided on whether he'll race the Tour. Instead, he has committed to ride the Giro in May, and now is saying that he will also participate in all of the spring classics except for Paris-Roubaix. As a long time Armstrong detractor who was constantly frustrated with his Tour de France obsession year after year, I say: IT'S ABOUT TIME!!!!!!

How great will it be to watch Lance take on the cobbles at Flanders, or on the steep climbs of Liege? In all probability he won't have much of a chance at victory at Flanders, but getting a win at Amstel or Liege isn't out of the question, providing he has good form. And he has already won the semi-classic Fleche Wallonne, so he has proven that he has the characteristics of a hilly one day rider. Sure, the major classics are hotly contested each year and Armstrong would have to possess sublime form to take a win, but it's still possible. Many of the Giro d'Italia overall contenders stretch their legs at La Fleche Wallonne and Liege, and Armstrong will want a clear indicator of his form ahead of his first ever participation in the Giro. He'll come to the hilly classics looking to at least stay with the favorites, and if he can do that, a win isn't out of the question.

Armstrong seems finally to have realized that there is more to cycling than just the Tour de France. In his heart of hearts, he realizes that a podium finish at any of the classics or the Giro would go a long way to securing his legacy as one of the best bike riders ever. He'll find the going tough in each classic as a win at those events can be career changing, but even if he doesn't win, his comeback campaign will be deemed a success if for no other reason than he took on a new set of challenges.

When Lance Armstrong retired three seasons ago, I, along with many other cycling fans, was happy to see him go. But as we draw closer and closer to the beginning of the 2009 season, I find myself rooting louder and louder for his comeback. Hopefully his claims to ride in early season races isn't merely a PR stunt. If he follows through on his promise to race the cycling monuments and the Giro, he will have won me as a fan for the remainder of his comeback. Not only that, I'll be pulling for him to shock the world and get a win in one of cycling's most precious one day tests.

As of now, things seem to be on track for Armstrong. He still has his trademark cockiness, as evidenced by his recent statements about Linus Gerdemenn, and is as vigilant as ever about positioning and preparation. He recently finished testing his time trial position in San Diego, and has freely admitted he is in better shape than he ever has been at this point in the year. Sure, he is a looooooooong way from making a successful comeback, but the early signs look good. Finally, and this can't be underestimated: Armstrong would not risk making a comeback unless he knew he could compete at the highest level again.

With all of the recent revelations regarding Armstrong's schedule, the cycling persona that he was known for the first time around seems to be fading. He'll still retain much of his core personality, but it is refreshing and exciting to see "Big Tex" think about expanding his cycling horizons. As he embarks on his second career in cycling, cycling fans everywhere should rejoice the fact that this Armstrong has a different plan for himself and his place in the cycling world. Tour de France, eat your heart out, Lance is branching out!

Wacky Race Ideas for Professional Cycling in 2009

Can you picture the carnage if the pros were able to take a shot at a Little 1000?

There is plenty of time now that we are in the offseason for thinking about stuff you normally wouldn't have time to ponder. With virtually no races on the calendar and most riders on vacation, I got to thinking: what races are missing from the International cycling calendar that would be great to watch? Here are some ideas. Not necessarily good ideas, but ideas.

Someone should make a race that allows only sprinters to ride that is a climb-heavy race. Perhaps at the end of the year, after the world championships, gather all the riders somewhere warm, yet hilly, for a one day Sprinter's Climbing Race. Perhaps St. Thomas would be a good locale. The premise would be simple. The crowd would be able to watch the world's best sprinters battle it out on steep climbs. Sure, you can watch the best sprinters in the world soft pedal it up any steep mountin in the grand tours, but wouldn't it be great ot watch them ride as hard as they could on the steep ramps? Picture Robbie McEwen, Allesandro Petacchi, Allesandro Benatti, Mark Cavendish, JJ Haedo, Thor Hushovd, and other top sprinters riding on their limit for "Best Climbing Sprinter" title. It would be great! Of course you would have a smallish field, but it would be imperative that only top-flight sprinters be allowed to compete to ensure fairness. In other words, no gregarios.

You could do the same thing for the climbers, except have a pancake-flat sprinters race. Again, no climbers that are also sprinters would be allowed. Riders like Damiano Cunego, Alejandro Valverde and Paolo Bettini would not be invited due to the fact that they are great climbers and good sprinters. Only pure climbers like Contador, Leipheimer, Gesink, Basso, Vande Velde, Cadel Evans, or Andy Schleck would be allowed to participate. Wouldn't it be great to see who would win a bunch sprint among the names mentioned above?

And what about those gregarios? Don't they deserve a race of their own? I say yes they do. So come up with a one day race open only to professionals who have not won a pro race in a given season. Make it varied each year to play to the strengths of a variety of riders. One year on a flat course, the next on a hilly one. Who wouldn't want to cheer on the workers of the peloton, the ones that never get much credit? Wouldn't it be great to salute a rider that likely will have zero chances to ride for themselves during the race season? At least for one day, these domestiques would be able to be front and center, the stars of a particular race.

And what about a relay-style race for the pros? The amateurs have the Little 500, but there is no such race for the pros. Again, after the world championships, allow teams of four to enter the Little 1000, a race consisting of four 200 mile legs. Teams could consist of any combination of riders, but most likely each trade team would come up with their best four for the race. Host the event on the Indy 500 track in Indiana, and you have a media frenzy. I can see it now: Zabriskie, Vande Velde, David Millar and Brad Wiggins crush the field in the inaugural race. Belissima!

So there are a few ideas for some new races for us rabid cycling fans. Any other bright ideas? God knows there's enough time until the beginning of next year, so start thinking!

Cycling Race Radios: Get Rid of Em!

Armstrong patiently waited until Ullrich cracked in 2001, thanks to faking fatigue early on in the stage

There has been much debate recently as to whether cyclists should be allowed to communicate with their teammates and directors via radio during races. Everyone has their own opinion on the matter, and the issue of race radios seems to spark the cycling fan's passion like few others can. Although there are arguments for both sides, it seems increasingly obvious that if cycling wants to become less formulated and predictable, it should reduce the use of radios in the sport, at least for select races.

I ascribe to the old school, so there is no doubt that I would like to see radios banned altogether. However, in today's cycling climate, that is very unlikely to happen. So, being the easy going type, I am willing to compromise. I suggest that one team member be allowed to wear a radio to communicate with his director behind in the race caravan. By reducing the amount of radios each team has, profound changes would occur with respect to race tactics.

Without every team member being wired for sound, you would have a more nervous, skittish peloton. Each team would need to remain hyper vigilant in regards to breakaways and attacks. Using team Astana as an example, Alberto Contador would need to have at least one of his top lieutenants at the front of the race early on so that they could join any early breakaways. More importantly, once in the breakaway, the Astana team member would have very little knowledge of what was going on behind. Sure, they would have time gaps, but besides that, not a lot. No more would a teammate know whether his team leader was feeling good or whether they were suffering. Instead, the rider in the break would have to hope that their guy was going well, or choose to take their own chance for victory.

Taking the argument a step further, teams would no longer be able to keep checks on other top riders. In the 2001 Tour de France, Lance Armstrong famously feigned fatigue on the way to Alpe d'huez, eventually dropping Jan Ullrich after the German had used up all his teammates. It was a classic example of race radios changing the tactics of a race, as Armstrong was able to trick Ullrich into isolating himself, before riding away for the overall title.

A few cyclists today race without radios, among them "The Killer," Danilo Di Luca. Di Luca has been able to take impressive wins in both one day and grand tours, proving that racing with a radio is not a requirement for victory, even when everyone else is wearing one. So perhaps cycling's authorities will take a chance and reduce the use of race radios. If so, cycling fans can expect more long range attacks, higher drama, and fewer bunch finishes. When one examines the idea, the only correct choice is to curtail race radio use for 2009 and beyond.

The Missing Piece for American Cycling Fans: A Big Time Classic in the USA

Some streets in Boston make you feel like you're in Europe

American cycling has come a long way since the 80's. Beginning with the Philadelphia International Cycling Classic in 1985, America began to add races to their calander that attracted an increasingly competitive and international field. Today, the USA is home to several top stage races (Tours of California, Georgia, Missouri, and Utah), and the talent arriving to compete on American soil, especially recently, has been impressive.

Among non-stage races though, there aren't many big time one day races in America. Of course the Philly Week series is prestigious, but besides that one week span in early June every year, America doesn't have any other one day races that attract the best riders in the world. With the arrival of the Garmin-Chipotle and Columbia teams to America over the past few years, now is as good a time as any for a race promoter to try their hand at an American one day classic.

There are several areas in the country that would be suitable for a "classics" style race. Topping the list is Boston, in the northeastern United States. Boston is one of America's oldest cities, and has a rich history that is suited well to a bike racing atmosphere. Additionaly, the city of Boston features streets that would be perfect for a classics-style race. Short, steep climbs can be found throughout the Boston metropolitan area, and there are even cobbled roadways that could be included. Weather could be a problem in scheduling a one day race in Boston, but the months of May, June and August would be appropriate times to host such a race. In fact, August would be ideal, right ahead of the Tour of Missouri. While the grand tour stars are in Spain at the Vuelta, the classics stars could head to the USA for the Boston classic and then for the Tour of Missouri a week later.

Another possibile city for a one day classic in the USA could be Boulder, Colorado. A cycling-frenzied locale, Boulder would be an ideal site for an American cycling classic. Not only is the weather usually good, but the terrain in Boulder is challenging. At 5,400 feet elevation, Boulder could also count itself as the classic with the highest elevation, which would add another element of preparation for any prospective rider. Again, the time to host the race would be August, so that the classics competitors could use both the one day race in Boulder and the upcoming Tour of Missouri as preparation for the approaching world championships.

Whether America will ever get a one day classic is still very much unkown. But for a race promoter like Medalist Sports, the organizers of California, Georgia, and Missouri, a big time one day race is the only piece missing from their impressive arsenal of events. With any luck, Medalist will find a way to put on a one day race in the future, and continue to bring the best cycling stars in the world to America's fans.

Comeback Kids: Ivan Basso, Lance Armstrong, Floyd Landis Look for Redemption in 2009

If only Ullrich would come back, we could possibly see this again . . .

As most of the cycling world knows, Ivan Basso, Lance Armstrong and Floyd Landis will all be back in the game of cycling in 2009. While Basso and Landis are coming off of doping suspensions, Armstrong has chosen to ride professionally again both to raise global awareness regarding the search for the cure for cancer, and perhaps also to dissuade those who would suggest that Armstrong won his 7 Tours de France with chemical assistance. Each will hope to regain their grand tour winning form in the coming year.

For Basso, there is already some indication that the Italian climbing talent will be able to contend in next year's Giro d'Italia. An excellent performance in the recent Japan Cup showed that Basso is on good form and ready to attack the 2009 season. He should be on the list of contenders when the Tour of California rolls along, at least as a possible stage winner. And when the Giro rolls around in May, Basso will be a top favorite, regardless of whether Armstrong is on form or not.

Armstrong meanwhile has made it clear he'll race the Tour Down Under ahead of the Tour of California. The Texan will hope that the Australian stage race will get him race ready for California, where he'll ride in support of Levi Leipheimer, who will be looking to win the overall title for a third straight year. After Paris-Nice, Armstrong will go to the Giro for the first time ever, where he'll hope for a podium finish, at minimum. A month after the Giro, maybe, just maybe (according to him) he'll compete in the Tour de France. The smart money has Armstrong on the start line in Monaco, and the real drama will begin should Armstrong have good form. If he does, an internal split could occur withing the Astana team as Alberto Contador struggles to establish himself as the clear leader of the Kazahk-based team.

Floyd Landis has decided to ride for the California OUCH team, and will not have the chance to ride in many big time European stage races. Instead, he'll no doubt focus on the NRC overall title. At only 32, Landis still has enough time left in his career to rebuild his legacy. With a good 2009, the Pennsylvania native may have a chance to catch on with a Pro Tour team. But to do that, he'll need to have an excellent ride at the Tours of California, Georgia and Missouri. Each of the three American stage races will be key in proving to the world that Landis can ride with the best. If he can manage a few stage wins or a GC podium, the much maligned American should receive offers from bigger squads for 2010.

As Basso, Armstrong, and Landis all plan their comebacks, media attention for cycling should increase. Landis is a controversial, unapologetic spoiler, Armstrong a business-like, cold stubborn maverick, and Basso a soft-spoken yet confident returning superstar. Each will play an important role in the 2009 cycling season, and the Tour of California will feature all three of them at once, which should provide an intriguing beginning to the 2009 cycling season.