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Ok, so in a number of threads in various forums I have seen discussion of Landis' thusfar excellent season (at the very least amazing spring). These cyclists are ranking Floyd as one of the top 4 or 5 American cyclists ever. This would be among Armstrong, Dave Z, and Tom Danielson. Maybe if you're lucky they throw in a Lemond. The problem of course being that they are often completely overlooking the other amazing racers that this country has had.
I appreciate their love of the sport, but how does one go about explaining that cyclists such as Davis Phinney, Andy Hampsten, Eric Heiden, Major Taylor, Connie Carpenter, et. al belong on that list? Do you outline Davis' 300+ wins (just make sure to highlight the 2 TdF stage wins, including the first by an American, and the US PRO title)? Maybe a few pics of Hampsten on the Gavia or on the podium at the Giro? Connie's gold medal in the 84 Olympics?
I think that the problem arises from the fact that newer riders don't really know about the challenges that were faced by Americans venturing to Europe in 80's. So how does one educate the cycling masses? How do you go about the task of introducing cyclists to the 7-Eleven cyclists? The Levis/Raleigh domestic squad?
I appreciate their love of the sport, but how does one go about explaining that cyclists such as Davis Phinney, Andy Hampsten, Eric Heiden, Major Taylor, Connie Carpenter, et. al belong on that list? Do you outline Davis' 300+ wins (just make sure to highlight the 2 TdF stage wins, including the first by an American, and the US PRO title)? Maybe a few pics of Hampsten on the Gavia or on the podium at the Giro? Connie's gold medal in the 84 Olympics?
I think that the problem arises from the fact that newer riders don't really know about the challenges that were faced by Americans venturing to Europe in 80's. So how does one educate the cycling masses? How do you go about the task of introducing cyclists to the 7-Eleven cyclists? The Levis/Raleigh domestic squad?