Lance Armstrong Finishing Amgen Tour Prologue 2009

It was great to finally see Lance Armstrong racing a Time Trial in person at the Amgen Tour of California 2009. Here is a short video of him flying into the finish:

Bicycle Emporium Amgen Tour Kickoff Ride

The weather ended up being beautiful and a great group turned out for the Bicycle Emporium Colnago Demo and Tour Kickoff ride.

I dug riding the Colnago CX1 with Zipp wheels, and full SRAM Red components. I loved the stiff ride, the race geometry, and the bike is great looking. The prologo seat felt like a brick at first but after about 20 miles I started to like the feel. I still don't think I will be riding one for 100+ miles but for racing under 100 I think it could be great. The vent holes really help keep your bottom side from getting too sweaty. My only complaints are that I am not sure if I like the feel or the shifting of the SRAM Red levers but I am sure you would get used to it. Overall, the bike is super light and the Zipp wheels would be great had it not been for the fierce wind.

Amgen Tour Gala

Had a great time with Bill and Michelle Marengo from Bicycle Emporium at the Amgen Tour of California Gala. Met Gordon Ong from City Bike Works who was a ton of fun and helped introduce us to the team riders. It was an incredible experience to meet all the pros including Carlos Sastre (2008 Tour De France Winner), Lance Armstrong (Cycling Legend & Cancer Survivor), Tom Boonen, Thor Hoshovd, Tyler Hamilton, Chris Horner, Fast Freddie Rodriguez, Victor Hugo Pena, Ivan Basso, Christian Vande Velde, and more. It was great to finally see and hear Phil Liggett, and Paul Sherwin after so 17 years of listening to them commentate on the races. Plus, the dinner was fantastic with Filet Mignon, Lobster, Fondue, and more. Ummm.

Thor Hoshovd

Tyler Hamilton

Carlos Sastre

My beautiful wife, Christine, Michelle (looking great) and Bill (looking debonair) out front of the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium.

Gordo, my new best friend ;-)