Each year we watch Le
Tour de France as the bicyclists pedal their way around France—and
sometimes a neighboring country at the beginning of the race. This year, Le Tour started in Corsica. I know, I know. That’s France. But the Corsicans don’t always consider
themselves French, or so I’ve heard. I
imagine the Tourist Board of Corsica is over the moon about those three days. Corsica’s obscurity is doubtless
changing. We caught a glimpse of
stunning country—craggy peaks, steep slopes, an improbably perched village at
the edge of the sea. It was very
dramatic and new to us.
We watch Le Tour
for two reasons. First, it’s an
extraordinary physical accomplishment for the cyclists. Over two thousand miles around the country on
plains, mountains, curves, villages and finally, the Champs-Élysées in
Paris. The photography is
first-rate. The camera-equipped
helicopters are French, but the video is shared with other stations, including
the station we watch. And since we watch
French television on cable, we have the benefit of both the full footage made
available there and the more edited footage on NBC Sports Network.
 |
| NBC Sports photo with chateau in background |
We’ve been watching for many years and listening to the
outstanding commentators—Phil Liggett (former amateur cyclist), Paul Sherwen
and Bob Roll (both former professional cyclists), all three first-rate and
experienced bicycle experts. I’m not much for sport commentating (except for
ice skating because I grew up skating myself), but these fellows are
entertaining, informative, interesting and challenging.
Phil and I have our favorites. Since Lance Armstrong’s fall from grace, I’ve
moved my loyalty toward Mark Cavendish, cyclist from the Isle of Man. I used to support the Spanish rider, Alberto
Contador, but once Armstrong faltered, it was clear he wasn’t alone.
We look forward all year to Le Tour and welcome the three-week distraction. If you have any interest in scenes of France,
you might want to check out Le Tour.
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