It’s not often that a man stands head and shoulders above the rest, but when they do, they have the power to inspire the common man. This inspiration drives us towards our own goals and dreams, if these select men can do it, why cant I? But sometimes, this very courage, will and determination to be best, drives them too far..
Lance Armstrong, surviving testicular cancer against all odds, this man achieved the unachievable, for in July 2005, Lance won his 7th Tour de France, the world’s toughest cycling race and arguably, the world’s toughest sporting competition, becoming the first man in the history of cycling ever to do so. He then retires from the sport he loves, reputation, almost god like to cycling fans, still in tact. Legend status well and truly secured.
With the desire and hunger that burns within, its hard to give up the only thing you know. This is what you were built for, born to do. But when you have achieved all there is to achieve, why come back? Well that’s exactly what Lance Armstrong did in January 2009, 3 and a half years since his last competitive road race. After finishing a very respectable 3rd place in the 2009 Tour de France, a magnificent feat, Lance vowed to win next year. Fast forward to the Tour de France July 2010, Lance has fallen from grace, no longer Mr. Indestructable, Lance was distinctly..human. Finishing in 23rd place, no stage wins, just another rider amongst the 170 who started the race, being beaten by riders who would normally not even get near him.
The decision to come back has not proved a good one, Lances stock has fallen, the ingredients that have made him a true great, the blind optimism, determination and stubbornness have lead to his downfall. But he will still be my hero.
-S
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