They are of a different breed

Stage 2 of the Tour de France was a 113 mile journey through the Vendee region of France from Challans to Les Essarts. With the exception of one small climb, the terrain was relatively flat, which meant a chance for the sprinters to attain Tour de France glory. Sprinters are like the hotshot drivers of NASCAR, they'll do whatever possible to win, even if that means putting themselves in danger. That's why commentator Phil Liggett refers to the sprinters as "a different breed of rider."

If you aren't involved in the sprint, like Lance Armstrong and the other favorites, your goal is to make it through these days without crashing. Ride up front during the stage, then when the sprint begins, slowly fall back, getting out of the sprinters' way. Today was no exception. A four man breakaway was out front most of the day, leading by as much as 4 minutes. Among the four was last year's revelation Thomas Voeckler, the Frenchman who held the race lead for 10 days. Despite his efforts, the four men were gobbled up by the main field with under 6 miles to go. Then it was up to the sprinters to finish it off, and today, it was Tom Boonen, edging out Thor Hushovd at the line.

Dave Zibriskie continues to lead, Lance remains in 2nd, 5 seconds behind. Tomorrow should be another day for the sprinters. Tuesday is the next big day for Lance and the favorites, as it is the team time trial. In the team time trial, each team rides against the clock instead of each person.

Also today, Roger Federer won his 3rd straight Wimbledon, defeating Andy Roddick in straight sets. It really wasn't fair to Roddick to play Federer after having to finish his semifinal match yesterday, but that's Wimbledon. Roddick didn't have his usual power and quickness, which makes it extra hard to beat Federer. Federer is a magician on the tennis court, he is amazing to watch. He plays the game the way it should, he has no weaknesses.

In the Western Open, Jim Furyk held off Tiger Woods to win by 2. After making eagle at 11, Tiger was tied for the lead. But Furyk answered with a birdie of his own and Tiger couldn't keep the momentum going. Still, you have to like Tiger as the favorite at the British Open, which begins a week from Thursday. If he had done better than 73 in the opening round, he would've won this week. Regardless, his game continues to improve and he dominated St. Andrews 5 years ago, there's no reason why he shouldn't win again.

Tomorrow, I'm off to Kings Island. My stomach hasn't cut it the last two visits, so I'm determined not to have that happen again.