2009 Tour of Utah

This week we welcome local, national and international cyclists to the Tour of Utah! The tour is labeled as Americas toughest stage race! The coolest part about it is that I have ridden many of these roads and can testify that they truly are tough roads to ride, let alone race. On Tuesday night Curtis Thacker and I took Logan up to Salt lake to see the opening Time Trial at the Capitol Building. We had a great time and got to see many Cyclists including Dave Zabriskie, Floyd Landis (Winner of the 2006 Tour de France) and many others. Here are some photos from that night.

Floyd Landis warming up with some tunes.

Dave Zabriskie at the start gate. (He came in Second and was awarded the red jersey for the best Utah rider time.)

Logan enjoying the race with us!

The Podium after day 1

Today was another fun day at the Tour. I went into work and then came home to pick up the family and meet the Cooks, Curtis Thacker and Ryan Amy at the top of Mount Nebo, the finish for stage two of the tour. When we got home I went back to work and Logan and Kris crashed for a good afternoon nap. I was able to finally meet one of my cycling heroes in person, Floyd Landis, and get his autograph as well as meet the race leader and former team-mate of Lance Armstrong, Fransisco Mancebo, and get his autograph. As a side note Floyd Landis is a very nice and kind person. He was very sincere and seemed like the kind of guy you would like to hang out with sometime. One of the guys taht was near us said that you couldn't find a nicer guy in the peloton than Floyd.

Kris and Logan waiting for the racers to get to the top.

Mancebo cresting the summit to ultimately take second on the day!

Fransisco Mancebo, Yellow Jersey and my pick for the overall win! Click here to find out more about Rock Racing.

The Real Podium Winners! (Ryan Amy, Ben Parker, Curtis Thacker)

Floyd Landis and Fransisco Mancebo Signatures on my Jersey. I plan on wearing this jersey at LOTOJA this year for a little extra mental support and to say that two pros "Have my back".

It has been a fun couple of days and some really fun times with family and friends. If you ever have a chance to see a pro bike race... do it! You will have a blast!