I've been following the Tour fairly closely and so far I have seen fans almost knock riders over while running next to them to the point where the rider had to swing at them to get them away, a fan start pushing a rider up a climb and the rider was docket points/time, and a fan throw a cup of liquid on a rider as he passed by. I sure hope it was water but it could just as easily have been something really bad! I have only seen one race in person and I sure don't remember people being that bad! Is this kind of behavior only in Europe? Has anyone seen or been involved in something like this?
-GNB
GNB, there is a LOT of drinking happening during the hours and hours of waiting for the riders to roll by. This no doubt contributes to the type of behavior you've seen. All in all, I think that generally this adds to the sport. However, there is a line that should not be crossed, but many do.
... Brad