The uncertain life of an Elite Racer

[gmason]

I have known quite a few NHL players over the years, but their life(style), while not nearly as glamorous as fans would seem to think, is light years better than what I can find about Elite cyclists.

Angel Casero, winner of the latest Vuelta Ciclista d'Espana has no team for next year! Part of that situation is probably his fault, as he appears to be holding out for a team that is guaranteed to be in the Tour de France. But I find it interesting that someone of his stature has not been snapped up yet.

Of course he was not helped either by the fact that his team disappeared, and another cut back several riders for next year.

And according to Chris Boardman's book, hockey players also drink a lot more beer than cyclists can. Of course they usually weigh several stone more on average as well.

Cheers...Gary

[velocipedio]

Last I heard, Lampre were interested in Casero, Casero was interested in Lampre, and all that was left was the actual inking of the signatures.

I don't feel bad for Casero. He priced himself out at the beginning, and then went out of his way to alienate all of the Spanish teams [except Euskaltel, but they were never really a likely option], and then he played the game almost up to the last moment.

Compare this to Cristphe Moreau, who had a deal with CA ready by midpoint in the season, or Leipheimer who took a good job [the #3 rider, in fact] at Rabobank on the strength of his one great performance in the Vuelta. Even arch-flake Frank Vandenbroucke landed at Domo!

If Casero has to sit out next season, it'll be his own damned fault.

[gmason]

Well, Casero signed with Coast. It will be interesting to see if they do get an invite to the Tour after all.

Cheers...Gary