Riding with a champion

I was originally supposed to be up in Georgia watching some pro cyclists duke it out, but plans went awry and I didn't get to go. As it turns out though, all was not lost-and in my mind-worked out for the best. At almost the 11th hour I learned that Floyd Landis was going to be present at the open house of the recently opened Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze. His visit was to include a charity ride. This was not a "town hall" stop, it was sponsored by Smith & Nephew- the medical device company that supplied the components of Floyd's hip. A chance to meet and ride with the 2006 TdF winner...count me in!


Everyone was eagerly anticipating Floyd's arrival. When he did arrive, he was met with applause. Floyd is a very down-to-earth individual. As everyone started clapping, he had this...well, for lack of a better phrase, an "awwe shucks" kind of look/response. Floyd could be one of your riding buddies...unlike a certain other Tour winner named Armstrong, who is larger than life almost. Within minutes of seeing him, I really liked Landis. When I got a chance to talk to him, my initial reaction was reaffirmed.

A few people took the opportunity to grab photos and get a couple autographs, but time was short and the ride got started. I don't know what the final tally was on the attendance, but before Floyd got there my count was somewhere around 35 or so and more people arrived after that count. I'm thinking that the final number was closer to 50 (although math wasn't my strong subject in school).

Seeing that a number of attendees were not what you would call experienced cyclists, I didn't want to be stuck in between a bunch of squirrely riders. Between that and my desire to actually ride WITH Floyd I got up near the front.

Yeah, that's right...I'm drafting off Floyd Landis. How many chances will I have to do that?

There wasn't a lot of time, so the route was a short one. It was the right call, as the pace was kept low to enable everyone(almost everyone) a chance to ride alongside and chat with Floyd. He made a point of talking with a large number of the participants, in some cases slowing down to do so.

I got my chance to ride alongside and spend a few moments talking to him, which was totally cool. The ride was over WAY too fast. Once we were back at the staging area, I took the opportunity to get my picture taken with him.

Me and The Man... can you say Mutt & Jeff?

Once I learned of the event, I rushed and got hold of a Phonak jersey for Floyd to sign. I wanted more than just a magazine or photo for him to autograph. Thank God Craft USA ships fast!

More than a couple people were envious when they saw me getting this jersey signed.

I know I'm geeking out over this more than some would, but Gosh darn it, I enjoyed every minute of this event!

After meeting and talking with Floyd I am even more convinced that he is innocent of the charges leveled against him. I want to do my part to help in any way I can.