[Duke]

I actually love the Tour but I can never catch all of it and I'm lucky if I ever get to see a full stage. There's a lot about it that I love and I do agree with the madness because it is a punishing test of ones endurance even without those murderous cobblestones.

I would like to see a bit of work done in the way of crowd control as well. I have to say I enjoyed watching much of stage 17 for the very reason that the crowd was not crowding the riders. This to me seems far more respectful to the riders and the sport in general so I'd love to see it in all stages.

As for Rasmussen, whether or not he's actually guilty of anything will likely never be known but I agree with you on why he was removed. There's a lot of talk though that he shouldn't have ever been allowed to race in the first place which is what I'm sure Team Rabobank is having to listen to.

It's just sad overall to see such a prestigious event such as The Tour de France be shrouded in this kind of controversy. These days it seems more emphasis surrounds the off sport action than the sport itself.