Sorry, Wolfgang, but I disagree mightily. I think Armstrong's motivations were crystal clear and well uttered beforehand. Every one I know, including this fan of Armstrong, pretty well agreed that he had almost no chance of pulling off a sixth win. The world was gunning for him, the course was set to defeat him, and the inevitable cheap shot enviers were all about. Lance said from the beginning that not only would he attempt to win, but he would do everything in his power to do it hugely. He didn't want any doubt that he was the legitimate champ, and further he wanted it to be from full effort in the stages. The only time he let up was in the final stage, and that was tactical.

My Grandmother always said that what one is speaks louder than what one says s/he is. Lance Armstrong showed himself to have the heart of a lion, and his teammates showed themselves to be worthy of that distinction.

Mick