PREVIEW

Today, it all begins. The partying, the drinking and the reason we are all here; to follow Rupert Guinness’ shirt collection for the duration of the tour. I arrived in the Netherlands a little early for the start of this years tour for a little extra “preparation”, Holland style. Rotterdam is rocking and shaking after last nights massive win in the soccer over Brazil. I however remained fairly quiet, settling for a six pack each with Popo and Rasty knowing full well the three weeks of torture that was in front of us.

I went out yesterday for the last time and did some hot laps of the Prologue course. Not really sure why, this is Holland, it was flat. Johan didn’t really care, he was too busy playing Mafia Wars in the car.

Lance looks trim and ready. Some of the team members get sick of getting asked questions about him. Not me. That’s how 90% of Lance Armstrong rumours start. I’d like to think I’ve had a hand in almost all of the crazy rumours started about him over the last decade. I wonder if they’ll believe some of the crap I have ready this year. Hey, it’s the tour. I’m sure the media will eat it up!

As for my picks for the prologue, well if Fabian “2 stroke” Cancellara brings his “special” bike, he’ll win for sure. Not entirely sure how he fits it into his frame though. I’ve being trying to put an engine on my bike for years, not to mention the debacle of the magnet trial in the 2008 Paris Roubaix where the pedals locked up when a magnet fell out of position. I’m still impressed how I managed to swindle the media on that one.

Wiggins also looks strong, as does the regular contenders. Contador, Evans, Sanchez, even Bookwalter. I expect the Schleck boys to lose some time, but that’s no surprise considering how maggot the boys got last night after two cases of Heineken.

Hopefully it’s not windy. Holland does that to you.

I expect a strong top 10 time for myself. I now have a streamlined Time Trial position and since I removed the spokey dokies, I am really flying. Wish me luck!

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