This weekend showcases the talents of the world's two greatest athletes. Today, American Lance Armstrong got off to a good start in his bid to win an unprecedented sixth consecutive Tour de France. Tomorrow, Japan's Takeru Kobayashi defends his title of World Hot Dog Eating Champion at Coney Island.

Cycle racing in this country is certainly not even close to the sporting importance of what it is in Europe. The reason is clear: bicycling never gave way to the automobile as much in Europe as it did in this country.

So, for America to own the greatest cyclist in the sport in the world who also happens to be one of the most phenomenal athletes in the world as well, should inspire and excite Americans no matter what their take on the sport as a whole might be.

This is a long, grueling and dangerous course and our hero has very little support among the European ungratefuls to inspire him.

Long live Lance!!!!!!!!!!