Win a signed jersey from Ryder Hesjedal or the TOC squad!
Posted on May 30th, 2012 in NEWS | 289 Comments »
The last few weeks have been quite the whirlwind all around the globe for Garmin-Barracuda. Ryder’s amazing win at the Giro d’Italia, Dave Zabriskie and Tom Danielson taking 2nd and 3rd in the Amgen Tour of California, and then followed by Dave Z getting his 7th USA time trial championship.
To celebrate, we are giving away One Garmin-Barracuda Team Jersey autographed by Ryder, and One Garmin-Barracuda Team Jersey autographed by the whole squad from The Amgen Tour of California (below photo) tomorrow (May 31 2012).
It works like this.
1. Be a fan of Castelli on Facebook. All people who are fans of Castelli by the end of day May 31st will get one entry.
2. Share this post on Facebook and you get another entry. Facebook share button is at bottom of post.
3. Share this post on Twitter and you get another entry. Share button at bottom of post.
4. Just for fun tell us in the comments below what was your favorite moment from the Giro or the TOC. (we might give out another jersey to our favorite comments)
289 Responses
Favorite ATOC moment was meeting Nathan Haas and riding with him and three others from the finish in Livermore back to the Hotel.
Favorite Giro moment was seeing pictures of Ryders sufferface on Stelvio. Best-post race moment was Ryder’s HUGH hug from his wife.
When Ryder pulled away from the GC leaders on that mountain stage, showing that he was the one that the pink jersey would need to be wrestled from if at all.
Vande Velde’s monster pull up the bottom of the Stelvio
Favorite moment of ATOC was getting to watch it all in one shot. Since we were in San Diego on vacation the week of the Tour I had them all in the DVR waiting for me when I got home. Avoiding posts on Facebook from the teams I follow for the week was the hardest part! The best was not having to wait until the next day to see a stage. I wish there was a way to get NBC Universal in Indianapolis though. Our local affiliate doesn’t broadcast it over the air anymore so sadly, no Giro for me this year.
My favorite part of the TOC was hearing David Z saying he was riding his R5 the rest of the tour after he won the TT! I just bought an R5 VWD, and just thought it was really cool that I’m riding the same bike as a pro! Made me push even harder on my next ride!
My favorite moment was the suspense given throughout the giro. Ryder was in pink and then lost it and stayed in a close second. I loved seeing him win it back in a true garmin fashion: the TT.
My favorite moment TOC moment was when I met Jonathan Vaughters, got him to sign my Team Presentation Poster and mentioned that I was hoping to get DZ’s signature as well… he then mentioned that ‘DZ is a bit of a recluse.’
I totally understood why he would be… it was in Clovis after his impressive end (where he tried to TT it) and 96 degrees… That said, someone on the team (trainer, mechanic… something… Don’t know who he is) took my Captain America bobble head onto the bus and DZ signed it. It now sits on my desk at work for me to admire daily.
I was worried the entire timetrial, it came so close, and it looked like Rodriguez was beginning to gain some of his time back, but the Canadian really pulled through. And to think, if the race was just 1000m longer on stage 19, we might be seeing the Pink Jersey on Rodriguez. The best grand tour in my lifetime (The 2010 Andy Schleck vs Alberto Contador coming in a close second).
Favorite Giro moment was seeing Marco Pinotti gave his BMC team its second stage win in the race, after team-mate Taylor Phinney won the opening time trial.
I’ll tell you my least favorite part…. It being over!
Guardini teaching Cav how to sprint!!! axaxaxxaxaaaa
Favorite Giro moment was Stage 19 watching Hesjedal latching onto Scarponi’s wheel and then pulling away on his own. It showed he wasn’t ready to give up the battle for the maglia rosa.
My favorite ATOC moment was going to downtown LA with my dad and watching the final stage. I was even lucky enough to catch Tom Boonen’s bouquet at the podium ceremony. I also watched Tommy D roll away after all the podium ceremonies were done and that was even more inspiration to ride harder to one day ride in the ATOC
My favorite moment honestly was the time trial to end it…. No team mates…. Just heads p… Ryder puts in a champion performance … Yes many thought it was a given but he still had to put rubber to road… P5 dominance, Castelli dominance, Garmin Dominance!
Favorite Giro moment – Hearing our Canadian national anthem! Go Ryder!
ok, I know it’s not Garmin, but what can compete with Jens eating a bee that stung him?
Dave Z being a total aero beast on the P5 and in the Castelli skinsuit and Christian Vandevelde killing it and giving everything to help Ryder do what he does best.
My favorite moment from the TOC was Stage 7. Why? Simple I was dressed as a smurf and I got to run alongside Dave Zabriskie. Although, a disappointing result, it was by far an amazing experience to run alongside one of my favorite cyclist. I also enjoyed seeing Captain America during the time trial. When is that outfit going to go on sale?
All moments of the gir were amazing! i especially love seein the TTT’s, Garming loos like a real argyle army! :)
I really enjoyed the end of the 3rd stage of the ATOC when Sagan rode the wheelie after the sprint to victory. He just looked like he was having a blast at the end of it all, overcoming the tired and soaking it up while he could with an attitude more people should have.
My favourite moment from the Giro was watching Ryder take control of his own destiny on the final climb. When it looked like the leader on the road was pulling away and riding into pink, and the rest of the GC contenders were siting back and doing nothing, Ryder took it upon himself to take control and he gained valuable seconds back. Also just seeing Ryder with the Canadian flag fills me with great joy. #weightofanation indeed!
From the Giro: watching Christian Vande Velde (previously a grand tour team leader) selflessly burry himself for Ryder on the initial slopes of the Stelvio. That is the mark of a pure professional, and shows that cycling truly is a team sport. And who was Ryder first to congratulate after that stage and after winning the whole thing the next day? His team. I love cycling because of teams like Garmin-Barracuda and riders like Vande Velde and Hesjedal.
Stage 5 with DZ kicking butt and winning the ITT in TOC, Christian Vande velde giving it all to help out Ryder and All the guys for winning stage 4 TTT at Giro. You guys are awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I fractured my clavicle in a training accident three weeks ago. If it hadn’t been for the Giro and being able to cheer for Hesjedal while I was recuperating on the couch and taking short rides on the trainer I don’t think I’d have made it!! I finally was able to ride out in the real world for the first time today!! Thanks all, for keeping my spirits up!
my favorite moment of the giro was in the final stage see the P5 in action
My favorite moment of the ATOC was seeing Captain America’s focus and intensity in the time trial and then the waiting with each rider to see if his effort would keep the lead.
My favorite moment was watching Ryder waving the Canadian flag attached to a hockey stick. A great moment in Canadian cycling history!
Hesjedal’s look of pure ecstasy as he crossed the line in Stage 19.
My favorite moment of this year’s ATOC was going to LA Live with my 8 month preggo wife and seeing Team Garmin-Barracuda racing live in person. It was a moment that I will never forget. So much fun. Go Team Garmin-Barracuda!!!
Favorite part of both the ToC and Giro were the ITTs, watching DZ kill it and grab the yellow, and Ryder steal the pink back on the last day. Fantastic!
Meeting all the Garmin-Barracuda riders before the start of the ATOC. Incredibly hard-working, professional, and overall cool guys.
No way no way. Best moment of the Giro. Stage 19, Matteo Rabottini has a mechanical. He hands his bike to this guy standing on the side of the road in his underwear while he switches bikes. Then the team drives of without the bike! Underwear guy get a free Cipo bike! Golden moment. You simply cant make this ish up.
http://road.cc/content/news/58943-giro-underpants-guy-nabs-ultimate-roadside-schwag-farnese-vini-cipollini-team
Watching Garmin-Barracuda dominate the Giro. Team GB is the real deal.
ATOC: Not that I don’t love Garmin, but Sagan’s 5 wins were simply amazing. It’d definitely psyched me up for watching TdF.
Giro: Watching Ryder race tactical, following all important moves, attacking to make a statement and staying calm when he had nothing to worry about.
My favorite part of the ATOC was seeing my 5 year old son jump up and down cheering Captain America on for the win!
Vande Velde’s monster pull up the bottom of the Stelvio and Ryder proving he was the man to beat among all of the favorites.
ATOC – DZ’s time trial.
Favoriate TOC moment was simply having all those amazing rider’s states-side!!!!!
Easily my favorite moment of the ToC was watching the Garmin train roll up to the first KOM on the queen stage. I was there with my puppy running a bit of support for a co-worker who rode the stage that morning, and it was great to see Garmin in full pursuit of Jens & Horner!
My favorite thing is knowing that when watching the Tour de France, I can now hear “Ryder, winner of…” & not ALWAYS, “only Canadian cyclist, Ryder….” Paul & Phil we know he’s from Canada, eh.
I liked seeing Ramunas riding in his pink jersey
Favorite moments: watching the Giro and TOC with my son.
My favorite: The large grin in Ryder’s face at the end of stage 20 in the Giro…(when the German nearly past away at finish line)
Priceless !
My favorite part of the Giro was watching Ryder take on all the challenges of each stage & then becoming the overall winner in a very tough bike race. The mountains, the weather, it was all thrown at him, but he overcame all the obstacles and won. Ryder is a cyclist that makes the Classics so much fun to watch. I can’t wait to hear, Phil, Paul & Bob say his name if he rides the TdF.
Great Giro. Whole team looking good for the entire race. I really liked Ryder taking responability to set the pace when the other favorites just where watching each other. Regards from Norway.
My favorite moment was when Ryder win that precious 13 seconds in the top of Pamepago. With that shows that all the seconds counts.
Best time of TOC was seeing Team Garmin ride to their hotel after stage 3 in Livermore . I got some great pictures and memories that will last a life-time . Awesome stage
Watching Dave win the time trial in Bakersfield then meeting Tommy D on the way to drug control.
Favorite moment had to be seeing Christian Vande Velde setting an unbelievable pace on that last mountain stage. I haven’t seen pacesetting and domestique work like that in a very long time and it just seemed like CVV would not yield to that mountain. I think that really put Hesjedal in a position to win and survive and it shut down any attacks from the other GC guys who were quite clearly only trying to hold onto his wheel.
It has to be the ease of Ryder on the final TT, he cruised round the course and you could see in his face the combination of concentration and the knowledge that he was faster than Purito to take the Maglia Rosa.
Maple leafs rule!
I love the pics of Ryder with the Giro trophy. It looks like an oversized, golden rotini or some kind of pasta!
Waking up on Memorial Day and realizing that I have the whole day to catch up on cycling! Only got better when Ryder took it!
DZ captain Americaing the ATOC!
Lovin watching another one of the “new” cycling nations, as an aussie its great to see riders from canada havin a BIG WIN!
onya RYDER!
Ryder beeing there all the time in the Giro, almost every time watching the nervous parts of a stage and seeing the blue castelli garmin barracuda shirt savely in the group of favourites or somewhere near. Relax and laidbacked waiting for his final Milan attack. A pleasure to watch even in Holland.
My favorite moment of the ATOC was DZ’s great attack with 5km to go in the 4th stage…and, at the end of each stage, realising it was 2am and that i had stayed awake all night to watch from Europe!
My favorite moment in the Giro was on the way up to Alpe di Pampeago, when Ryder turns back to look at Rodriguez and Basso, as if to say “Can you follow me? Can’t you?. Ok here I go” and then his rush to the line to take the 2nd place.
My favorite moment was, when Ryder attacked on final ascent to Alpe di Pampeago in his new Castelli climbers kit, and the suffering looks on all riders that day.
My fave moment: All of it, with so many good bits, how can I pick something out?!?
My favorite moment of the Giro was the victory of the argyle in the TTT! They showed that they really are the strongest team, not only in the TTT, but in the whole Giro. And the reason why they are the strongest team is that they have very good riders in the team and they have a GREAT teamwork!
Lovef watching the last High Mtn Stage with Ryder leading the way up the climb. And seeing the time split, I knew he’d best Rodriguez in the TT. I wish I could have been in Milan!
My favorite moment of the Giro was Team Garmin-Barracuda adding a Grand Tour to its palmarès. This team stands for everything that is right about professional cycling, and as such, Ryder Hesjedal’s victory was truly one for the sport, its sponsors and, most importantly, the fans who refuse to let dopers and cheaters ruin the beautiful and thrilling experience.
Favourite Giro moment had to be any time Ryder was mentioned. After pronouncing his name Hez-je-dal for a few years where ever ive read about him, seeing him win has finally helped me to remember and actually pronounce his Hesjedal correctly. I shall never forget it now!
The TTT at the Giro was my first favorite moment from the Giro as I could watch my hopes for Ryder winning the Giro getting one step closer.
The best part of the Giro was the last 5km of stage 19. After being the strongest on Stage 17 Ryder pur it beyond doubt by easily matching the accelerations of Basso and Scarponi, recovering, having a drink, and then distancing them. It was impressive to see, but the highlight was the last 50m as he rode hard up to the line he was smiling. He was happy, and he was having fun smashing the best!
O dont have a favorite moment, o have lots of favorite moments. All during the Giro d’Italia, seeing a fantastic rider like Ryder Hesjdel making the race. He was the Giro d’Italia.
3 memories from the Giro (No coverage of ATOC in UK)
1. The Team TT – the guys were a well oiled machine and it was a thing of beauty to watch.
2. Ryder and Christian’s efforts on the final mountain stage – they knew that they had to limit Thomas de Gendt’s breakaway, but in doing so they would get no help from Rodriguez and the other GC rivals until Ryder was susceptible to attacks.
3. Ryder’s TT in Milan – numerous times it looked like the bike was skipping and he could have hit the floor, but his sheer skill kept it upright and allowed him to make up the time and surpass Rodriguez – a very worthy GT winner
Ryder just riding away from all the favorites at Cervina. He looked so comfortable, in so much pain, and absolutely destroying his rivals: Relentless!
That gave him 20 seconds, but it broke everyone else!
My favorite moment was on the final kilometers of stage 14, when Ryder attacked at the Cervina and the other riders weren’t able to follow him. Even Rodriguez suffered a lot and couldn’t close the gap. This was the first key moment of the Giro and everyone else had to admitt that there was this Canadian guy who also could become a threat for the GC.
Later I saw a video of the teamcar with the Teammanager and it was amazing to see how these guys are also involved and emotional with their riders during a stage.
Best day ever!
My favorite moment was probably when Ryder attacked, on the 25th of May. I was in front of my TV like singing and screaming : “Come on Ryder !” I even invented a very little song to encourage him. That was a perfect Giro, I did the same the day after and finally, during the Time Trial ! The podium was also a fabulous moment, to see him like this, happy more than anyone at this right moment ! I was smilling and hearing his anthem and seeing him like this made some tears appear on my face ! That was a perfect Giro and Ryder, with all his perfect team, made me really happy !!
By the way, at the end of these stages, when Ryder was taking seconds, he was like a big smile on his face, and even if I think there was a lot of pain, I can’t help thinking that was also happiness !
Congratulations to all, and thank you so much for the emotions given during 3 beautiful weeks !
@Carlota_Guimier
Though I can only understand a little Italian, watching the Giro in Italian was fun, Italians can comment on paint drying and make it sound exciting, best of all the commentary as Ryder approached the finish of the TT, then as it was evident he won…. PRICELESS!
It was so many beautiful and memorable moments on this Giro start from Team winning in Verona. But most impressive was the last stage in Milano. Never nervous like in those 34 minutes when Ryder was on the road. And was really happy to be near the podium and see him in Maglia Rosa. His tears of happiness at that moment is my favorite moment of Giro. I looked at him and remembered how difficult it was his way to victory. And he made it!
Favorite moment was on the Stelvio when Garmin pulled everyone up the hill. Epic effort from Vande Velde! Then Ryder towed the favorites almost all the way to the end like a boss without panicking about De Gendt closing the GC gap ahead. That was top-notch maths by the team (and Peiper in the car)!
As a Canadian my favorite moment was easily seeing Ryder’s eyes fill up as the Canadian anthem was being played. Made me really proud to see and also knowing what kind of impact it would have on cycling in Canada
The team unity of this this team, whether at TOC or Giro, everyone is out to help the team win and that is a quality you don’t see every day from other teams. I am proud to be a fan of a good quality team that puts the team before any superstar.
The unity of this team, whether at TOC or Giro, everyone is out to help the team win (and themselves a distant second) and that is a quality you don’t see every day from other teams. I am proud to be a fan of a good quality team that puts the team before any superstar. Top down, great team. Proud to be a fan!
My favorite moment from the Giro was watching Ryder with tear filled eyes, and full of pride, listening to our national anthem. I am so proud of what Ryder has just done for Canadian cycling. There will be a boom of people on the roads this summer and it will
Undoubtedly be because of him.
My Favorite moment, was seeing Ryder with the Pink Jersey on listening to the Canadian National Anthem play and then grab a Canadian Flag that was on Hockey sticks and start to wave it. That was such a priceless moment for me.
Favorite moment was on stage 14 in the last few KMs when Ryder put in the big effort to pull away and looks at the other riders almost to say “is that all you got?”.
How can you pick just one part Without the many great moments it wouldn’t be worth watching. Since a lot has been said about Ryder, I’ll switch gears. Don’t forget Tyler Phinney. He kept getting back up and battling after each fall. And for all those other cyclist who push and surprise us with great moments of cycling. They all inspire me to push on and keep on cycling.
My favorite Giro moment, there are so many. This race has beautiful scenery, incredible weather (hot sunny days to snow filled mountain passes), and an exciting course that kept me entertained from start to finish. If I had to pick one, it would be the climb through the town of Assisi with the riders chasing Rodriguez through the narrow streets. Only in Italy could you find such a combination of history, enchantment and cycling drama.
My favourite moment of the Giro was when Ryder crossed the line of the TT with a 16 second lead and then I knew it was the first time a Canadian won a major on a Canadian designed/assembled bike.
When Ryder looked Rodriquez in the eye at the Mortirolo like’ Is this all you have got and countered his attack’ like a true barricuda and castellian
I am a huge fan of Cervelo bikes and every time a close up of the Garmin Barracuda team came up and I was able to see the team making an attack or working toghether to protect the leader it was awesome!!! Also the sprint finishes where so intense and fun!!! Hi to all from Puerto Rico!!!
skipping my ride to watch the TT, then cycling to my favorite cafe, screaming, ‘ryder won! its all argyle all over!’
It was without a doubt stage 19. With everyone going uphill and Ryder slowly dropping Basso, Scarponi and then finally Rodriguez. The look of pain and pleasure on Ryders face was amazing and the events so exciting! Its hard to describe what Ryder was doing as he came across the line 2nd. Was he smiling or grimacing? I want to believe it was a combination of both.
Seeing Ryder on the podium in pink and hearing Oh Canada being played. Victory in itself is sweet for a few, creating history for your country is even sweeter and shared by millions.
Best moment of the Giro was watching the final TT in a cafe in Canada. Watching Ryder take so many risks and bury himself like he did was incredible. Seeing him stand on the final podium with a Canadian flag while wearing the pink jersey was inspirational for a whole country.
My favorite moment of the giro was when Ryder attacked on the final 3K of stage 14. It was a move of opportunity to take pink that day, but the time he gained on that day was the difference and ultimately won the race for him.
I was driving through Northern Ontario and I stopped at a Tim Hortons for a donut. On the TV was a local reporter excitedly talking about the “gyro”. Made me smile that people cared in hockey country,
I don’t have one favorite moment from the AToC, I have five: when Ted King and Timmy Duggan drove the peloton all day for Peter Sagan to take the wins!
Favorite TOC moment was Captain America’s time trial. Sagan was pretty impressive too!
Has to be a tie, hearing the Canadian national anthem in Milan, tied with watching the fan in the Borat bathing suit running up the climb with the leaders!
When Ryder rode away from “the big” favourites on stage 19. They all tried to attack him and he just stayed with ‘em. Then he attacked them and rode away. Awesome!
Post my favourite moment from the Giro or TOC? With that Giro I didn’t even have time to watch the TOC!! My favourite moment was stage 19, Ryder continuously attacking on those mountains leading to another exciting finish. Seeing how much he still had left, it was then that I was almost certain that Canada was going to have their first grand tour champ!!!! I immediately went out and climbed the biggest hill I could find on my road bike :)
Ryder Hesjedal’s heroic last 5km push at the end of stage 20. It put him in a fantastic position, but the best part was when he found out his Dad had come all the way from Victoria, BC to see him at the last minute. He rushed over to see him and forgot all about those tired legs for the guy who helped him get this far. As a Canadian, I’m proud when our athletes remember and respect their roots. Ryder’s a real winner.
Racing on the road is about the power in your legs, the pure mindset you have, and the will to feel the pain and want more of it. In the 2012 Giro, Ryder not only reached for that moment once but over and over, day after day. For Ryder to stand as the champion of the greatest race on earth he had to train endless days his whole life, something an outsider like me cannot watch, but to watch him reach for those little moments when the clock was ticking was all the memories I’ll ever need.
The best part of the Giro for me was Thomas de Ghents amazing performance on the penultimate Stage 20. That was an amazing ride. Since I live in NJ and was able to go to the TOC last year and only the Northern Stages it was great to see Captain America ride like a and man and almost pull out a win. However, a win for RaboBank is a win for California.
définitivement le passage de Ryder dans les dolomites!!
From Giro: on the last mountain stage after vandeveld sacrificed himself for the team and left Ryder in a great position. Ryder was able to find a perfect balance of pace up the mountain to reel back de gente and to prvent the other top GC riders from attcking and gaining too much extra time. He also saved enough for a hell of a time trial the next day! Many people never think of the amount of strategy required to win a bike race, and this was a great example of how important it is.
My favourite moment of the Giro was how Ryder constantly responded to attacks virtually demoralizing his GC competetors especially on Stage 14.
Favourite moment of the ATOC by far was watching Captain America ride into yellow on the individual TT.
My Favorite moment was of course when Ryder one. It instantly put Canada on the map for Cycling!
My favorite moment of the Giro was when Ryder put on the pink jersey for the first time and then rode hard to defend it. You could tell then that he wanted the win and was willing to put it all out there to get it. Oh yeah, and then on the podium in Milan, when his face looked like he wanted to say “somebody pinch me! I’m not sure this is all real.”
My favorite moment of the Giro was watching Christian Van de Velde pull Ryder up the Stelvio for kilometer after kilometer then when Christian pulled off, Ryder hung in there, face etched in suffering and pain. It would have been so easy for him to have broke on that final 8K climb when he was pulling all the leaders up the mountain but he hung on and limited his losses that day. Incredible moment of the Giro.
1st time check stage 21 time trial. I knew hesjedal had it but purdito still road the ITT of his life
My favorite moment at the AToC was getting to yell “Dave Z.” while he was checking out the time trial course in Bakersfield and getting a smirky grin in response (or that is what I’ll keep telling myself it was). Also, Dave Z. is amazingly fast on the TT bike, if you didn’t know it already, and you may end up with more pictures of the road than him.
I love how Ryder was going pretty insanely during his final TT–it looked like he was going to fall on a few occasions. He was going balls-out. He knew he had the yellow and the Giro.
My favorite moment was Matteo Rabottini’s herculean effort to overtake Joaquin Rodriguez in the last few hundred meters of stage 15 to take victory after his massive 150km solo effort. I think I would have cried if he’d lost.
Just Ryder Hesjedal wearing the “Maglia Rosa”.
Perfect!
Has to be not being able to tell whether Ryder was grinning or grimacing as he finished on the Alpi Di Pampeago!
Best moment of the Giro — having my internet fail while watching in class, and pulling out my phone to follow Ryder. I told my Professor that “texting is for suckers. You can’t hate me for watching cycling.”
Fav TOC moment was DZ a.k.a Capt America crushing the field on the ITT.
My moment was seeing a rider (Ryder) put on the Rosa in Milan, in a spot i myself have visited, that validated and rewarded all of the efforts of the team that is now Garmin Barracuda.
I think my favorite, most exciting memory from the Giro has to be about 4-5 km from the end of stage 19, when Ryder Hesjedal, Michaele Scarponi, Joaquim Rodriguez and Ivan Basso were trading looks, almost mentally daring each other to make a move. Especially Hesjedal and Scarponi – you could almost hear Ryder making the silent “whatcha got?” challenge. It was like the pinnacle of tactical cycling – the riders sizing each other up, making short feints, trying to get each other to show their cards. Just so much energy building up – and then when Scarponi went, and Ryder hung on his wheel, and then distanced him – it was the payoff.
All of the best of bicycle racing, encapsulated in just that one brief kilometer on the Pampeago!
Hope-of-a-Nation – delivering on the goods in the Giro
That one part where that one guy got flat, had some random guy on the side who was wearing only his underpants to hold us bike, and then both him and the team car shooting off without the bike when the rider gets a replacement. Lol
The best part of the TOC for me was watching Dave Zabriskie’s attack in Clovis right before the finish and really screwing with the peloton. I would have loved to have seen him take the overall this year! Glad he got the stage victory in Bakersfield in the TT.
My favourite moment of the Giro was looking at Scarpone’s face when he couldn’t keep up with Ryder over the last climb on stage 19. What a true champion.
Favourite moment was seeing Ryder on the podium!
I think my favorite part of the tour is when Guardini beat cavendish in the sprint at the end of stage 18. I like cav but it was exciting since it doesn’t happen very often..
Ryder made an epic win, 31 sec. behind and win by 47 sec. in last stage
Watching Cavendish get bunny hopped over.
Ryder on the Podium!
“Oh Canada”
Favorite moment in the Giro was watching Ryder attack on stage 19 and ride away from all the other favorites. I found myself screaming at the computer screen telling Ryder to go FASTER!!
My favourite bit is all the guys butts in Lycra. Hey, I’m a newbie cyclist and although I’m watching it, my attention does still tend to wander…
Favorite moment was the TT stage…those guys are AMAZING!
My favorite moment was the start of stage 13, Savona-Cervere, where I met Ryder, Christian Vandevelde, Taylor Phinney and Jussi Veikkanen talking among themselves. So I asked Ryder if I could take a picture with him: he was very kind and so we took a picture together with my heart pounding loudly. A small gesture that made me the happiest guy in the world.
Thank you Ryder!
My favorite moment of the ATOC went right through my part of Northern California! Monterey Bay area: Santa Cruz and San Jose! Such a cool and inspiring moment.
When Ryder threw down in the ITT, showing that he could dominate at will.
Canada being represented in the best grand tour of the season.
Giro: Ryder, VDV and the Stelvio
TOC: DZ holding his round in the mountains
Have no clou about who this guy Hesjedal is , but I sure wish my little brother would stop talking about him winning that Giro thing !
Favorite moment at the Giro has to be Matteo Rabottini’s insane lone escape and the final push to beat Rodriguez with 200m left from the finish.
Such a deserved win and a really phenomenal performance!
My favourite moment was on stage 15. Rabotinni escaped and road alone for such a long time, and right at the end Rodreguiz over took him. I felt so sorry for poor Rabontinni, then he took the lead back right before the line. I was so happy for him, after all that effort he nearly lost it.
Favorite part of the TOC was watching Zabriskie fight through the climb up Mt Baldy to try to keep the leaders jersey. Enjoyed watching one of my favorite non-climber’s fight his way up the mountain trying to keep the race lead.
Favorite moment of TOC was watching Chris Horner breakaway at the end. Despite not winning the stage, it was a great performance and really exciting!
My favorite moment in the Giro was watching Christian VanderVelde making pace for Ryder in the second to last stage…such a team effort. CVV is such a beast!
Giro stage 19. Ryder attacking on the final climb and silencing doubters Worldwide. Garmin fans and Canadian Cycling fans in particular were collectively freaking out. Well done Ryder, Garmin and Cervelo and of course Castelli.
My favourite moment was watching Ryder pull away with a brave attack on the climb to Cervinia. It really announced his GC credentials and got the adrenaline racing after I had back him with the bookmakers at a big price before the Giro. It confirmed to everyone in the cycling world that he was the man to beat at the Giro and showed what being a bike racer should be all about.
It wasn’t the Giro or the TOC that was my favorite moment, it was watching the entire team the Sunday before the US Road Championships training on Paris Mountain. I was driving with my family and I was able to follow them and see how they worked both up and over the mountain. It’s intimidating to be pushed down a mountain pass by the Garmin Team!
Favorite Giro moment was the climb up the Stelvia. Loved seeing the American Vande Velde leading the chase group up the mountain and then loved seeing Hesjedal looking around like “what you got? I know one of you’s got to attack to beat me, who’s got it?” and everyone else just sticking on his wheel because he was clearly the strongest rider over the race. Great Stuff! Hesjedal was a worthy champion.
Being a fellow Canadian, when rider attacked on stage 19 to eat up some of JRod’s lead and proved to skeptics (media) that Ryder was the real deal.
Last meters of stage 17… Awesome!
I was able to meet the Garmin Team Mechanics at TT Stage in Bakersfield. I was impressed with how perfect they made the bikes look and ride.
Every single moment of the Giro was an awesome experience, it is by far the most interesting and in my opinion challenging grand tour out there.
But if there was one moment…it was seeing Ryder step onto that podium at the finish. He has come from nothing to be an absolute hero – since his victory in Paris Roubaix last year he has never looked back…and if he did, he’d realise everyone is too far behind him to even see ;-)
#IncrediblebikeRyder
Would love to rattle off al my fav moment from both tours, however had to have Pay TV cut due to household budget (gotta feed the kids I suppose) and no Pay TV in NZ means No cycling! saving up to have it reinstated for TDF so I can soak up a years worth of cycling pleasure in 3 weeks!
When Ryder attacked Scarponi on stage 19!
Best moment…..The Argyle Aramada in Pink!
The last section of stage 17 was by far my favorite, absolutely amazing!
The Best part of TOC was the TT in Bakersfield this year !!! Awesome to hear the riders give kudos to how difficult (deceivingly difficult) this particular TT is.
My favorite – watching Ryder climb solo the day before the TT, positioning himself for the win!
The time when Hesjedal won of course!
Fav moment was on Stage 19 when Ryder rode away from the competition and nearly pushed on to win the stage. Awesome!
Favourite moment of the TOC : When Fred Rodriguez crashed into the Gingerbread man (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHxhNNw0HlU)
Favourite moment of the Giro : When the Farnese Vini team forgot to pick up a bike when they changed it. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7T_8do5Ask)
A brilliant TT ride by Ryder to make up the 30 seconds and grab the pink jersey in the end. Just a brilliant ride!
Watching Cav cry about getting wrecked….
A moment in Giro History: I remember Ryder coming across the line 2nd to Kreutziger on Stage 19 to Pampeago, as he crossed the line he had this smile on his face that said, “I can hang on to them tomorrow, and on Sunday the Maglia Rosa will be mine.”
The look on Ryder’s face at the start of the TT…he was focused and he wanted it!
When Hesjedal, in Pampeago, attack and trim 13 second to Purito, because this stage was very important in the final victory. I likes that Hesdejal won the stage, but Kreutziger shatch it, one pain….
My favorite moment of this years Giro was when Ryder took to the final podium. You could see it on Ryder’s face as he stood their and began to realize what he had just accomplished. As he stood their, proudly taking it all in as the Canadian national anthem played in his honor, I began to get emotional as well. He has truly turned himself into a national hero over the last 3 weeks. Ryder is doing what many other greats have done in their sport before him, raise awareness and grow the sport. Prior to Ryder’s performance at the Giro, Cycling and Ryder, got nearly no coverage. Three days since his win, and the news is still publishing new stories on a national stage discussing his win and the future path that hes going to take. It has been amazing to watch and I look forward to continuing to see this great sport build throughout the future. Congratulations Ryder, your motivating a nation of young riders! Keep working and we hope to see you fighting for the Maillot Jaune!
Watching the Team that emphasizes team first win the TTT.
Loved watching DZ dismantle everyone in the TOC TT in prep for another Stars and Bars!
It was increddible how Ryder came back and won the pink. I said to some students where I work, that Ryder will win the whole Giro d’ Italis, but they said no, he looks tired. But I said he will come back, and he did. What a great rider. Congratulations!!!
Waking up every morning and watching Ryder and the rest of the Garmin boys tear it up, makes month 1/6 of my broken collarbone a whole lot more bearable. Hopefully the next two grand tours will also fill another couple months
Hearing the never-ending Canadian anthem play in Milano. Repping Ryder and Cervelo at the same time.
Counting down to 47 seconds over Joaquim Rodríguez in the Giro TT till Ryder had solidified his win! Wonder if his Caselli skinsuit made those 16 second difference to the win.
” Oh, Hesjedal” !!!!
When ryder first countered several attacks by Scarponi and then put the fear of God in the other GC contenders by riding away on the Alpe di Pampeago
Grande Rayder!!! Finalmente una faccia giovane e pulita sul podio…te lo meriti, c’è ancora qualche speranza che il ciclismo diventi pulito!!! GRAZIE un fan
The pink jersey on anyone. Only the pros can pull if off somehow.
Loved the TTT really shows the team spirit
My favorite moment is Ryder coming back in stage 19 of the giro and getting second.
DZ fighting for the podium on Baldy
Fav Moment(s): Ryder apparently talking smack, or at least attempt to bait the other GC riders at least once on every major climb during the final week… and then capping it off by taking off when none of them would go… scary good.
Hearing the Canadian anthem played for the first time on one of the biggest cycling venues there is, and seeing Ryder almost in tears hopefully realizing the impact that this would make back home.
It is currently bike to work week here in BC and the number of people I have seen out and talking about this is amazing. As much as lance has done for the sport here in Canada this is what we really needed. Our own true champion!
My favorite part was watching the final Time Trial. I was in the passenger seat of our car while my wife drove the first leg of a 10 hour trip. I got to watch it on my phone at 70 mph on I-35. Amazing.
2nd favorite part of watching that time trial was seeing Rodriguez get a little too close to a curb and hearing the Italian announcers actually exclaim, “Mama mia!”.
The best time during the Giro was when Ryder held up the Canadian flag and our national anthem played for the first time ever at a GC.
My favourite part was watching Ryder as he welled up listening to Oh Canada being played at the award ceremony. Proud moment for all Canadians and Canadian cycling enthusiasts alike!
The moment I saw this skinsuit, I knew Ryder was getting an unfair(but still fair) advantage in the TT:
http://www.grassyknolltv.com/2012/giro-d-italia/photos/stage-21/060-RTR32PBU.jpg
Watching Ryder literally FLY through the streets of Milan en route to the Maglia Rosa, while nearly crashing twice in his slick Castelli San Remo Speedsuit as he gobbled seconds on Rodriguez. He let his legs (and heart) do the talking.
I loved it all, after finding cycling again at the age of 40 I have been watching the whole tour… But so has everyone else.
I did a bit of star watching on and off the bike, spotted elvis and many male strippers parading in their underpants… The tour was great on all accounts. But the stage win at the top of that gruelling mountain made me think that cyclists are the most gutsy , string and determined people on this earth!!… Great example of mankind!!
Best moment? When Ryder came to the finish of one of the mountain stages (Cortina, I think) and you just couldn’t tell if he is in such pain or just smiling for staying in front. Probably, it was both. :) Here’s the picture I’m talking about http://nationalpostsports.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/ryder-hesjedal-1.jpg?w=620
When Ryder stood on the podium and got teary when the Canadian National Anthem was played. I’m not Canadian or his mother but I felt like both at that moment…very proud of a deserving young man!
Ryder kissing his pink jersey on the podium. He looked in desbilief. So emotional, so real. True champion! Best Maglia Rosa I have ever seen!
All of Stage 20.
It seemed the whole peloton was intent on making Ryder lose, even if it meant (in some cases) losing a place on the podium, but the team stood strong. C V V demonstrated an inner strength many never knew he had, and in the end Ryder showed the world beyond any doubt why he deserved to win the Giro.
Best Moment the Canadian Flag on the Hockey Stick
My favorite ATOC moment was Stage 1 – after watching Sagan sprint away from his lead out and winning, as we were walking back, the entire Garmin team, lead by Dave Z himself rode right by us on the way back to their hotel. :) Then, later in the week, to see Dave haul himself up Mt. Baldy, that was awesome! :)
Seeing Taylor Phinney on the podium, and then watching Ryder win it all. I missed the TT but I knew Ryder could win back the time he needed to be in pink. Chapeau Ryder!
My favorite moment was when Ryder was responding to Scarponi’s attack in the mountain. Everybody started to really consider Ryder as a winner for the tour.
Seeing a fellow Canadian pulling on the pink jersey and becoming the first Canadian to win one of the Big 3 races. Made all television stations in Canada and has put cycling on the map in Canada. Truly an historic moment in Canadian Sport and he has become a household name in Canada.
Favourite moment: Watching Ryder on the podium accepting the trophy and hearing our national anthem being played. I couldn’t be more proud as a Canadian Cyclist and have never cheered for any rider in any race as much as this one. Go Ryder Go!
Ryder in the pink, waving the Canadian flag on a hockey stick is without doubt THE moment of the Giro, for any Canadian. Respect for what Ryder has accomplished, being the ‘weight of the nation’, and always there at every stage, and pride for the impact he is making, not only on Canadian cycling, but all sport. What a great role model!
my favorite giro moment was watching the riders climb the stelvio! also all of ryder’s responses to moves by other riders, he just proved that he deserved the maglia rosa time and time again!
my favorite atoc moment was the naked guy and zabriske’s TT making it into the leaders jersey!
My favorite moment of the giro was seeing Ryder make up the 31 seconds at the first check point. Most exciting cycling race for any Canadian rider!!
The best part of the Giro was Ryder’s smile at the finish of the hill stages when he knew he had done well. Sort of like that smile had had in the TDF a few years ago when he went over the hill with Contador.
Watching Ryder while Oh Canada was playing.
Watching Ryder on stage 20 when he is climbing and none of the other riders will help him, after Vande Velde could not pull anymore you saw how big a heart he had, and when he finished the race and knowing he would make up the time on the time trial, it made Canada proud
The “I can’t believe I am here” look on the podium. Priceless.
Tears on podium
Loved hearing “O Canada” in Milan… and not a single hockey stick nor pair of skates in site! :-)
My favorite moment was stage 19 watching the argyle armada put the hammer down all day and none of the big GC’s being able to crack Hesjedal!
Favourite moments were De Gendt’s overwhelming win on the penultimate stage. Ryder clawing back 2 minutes in the last few mms on that stage.
The feeling of happiness knowing that one of our own won the first grand tour for our country.
The close up on Ryder’s eyes welling up during the Canadian anthem moved me with misty eye pride! I’m a proud Canadian!
My favorite is watching Garmin-Barracuda winning the Stage 4 team time trial. I think it was a great finish that brought Garmin-Barracuda victory over a very impressive and unlikely great time from Katusha Team. I love watching the whole team in concert in order to bring the best time.
La carovana – EVERY single time :)!!
ATOC Stage 3 on they way up Mt. Diablo. Dave Z acknowledged our comment when we yelled ” Go Z” with a “Thnx guys.”
My most memorable moment of this years Giro was standing in front of a monitor at work to watch Ryder blast a smoking time in the time trial. The whole shop, coworkers and customers included all held our breaths until Ryder crossed the line. Then we all counted down the seconds until Canada was officially in the Pink. Easily the most thrilling sports moments of my life.
Favourite moment of the Giro was seeing the reaction of my husband when the spirited fan in the Borat bathing suit flashed across the tv screen!
My favorite part was ending my 12 day Italian vacation in Milan as a spectator for the final stage! Never before have I experienced a race of this magnitude, let alone in the beautiful backdrop of Italy. And rocking my Giro d’Italia swag back in the states!
I am a proud Canadian who lives in Richmond BC. I cycle and personally know Sebastian Salas. The greatest moment of TOC was when Sebastain first grab the KOM jersey and Ryder also wore the Pink. I had quite a few beers to celebrate the occasions! I had more beer when Sabastian hold on to the KOM title and Ryder finally won the Giro!
My favourite moment of the giro was at the first time check of the last time trial. When Ryder’s time was close to winning I knew he could pull it off. After a few close calls on course I was a proud Canadian and was elated to watch cycling history unveil before my eyes!
This is what I posted on May 19th on FB: ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT day for Canadian cycling! Super wonderful effort by Ryder Hesjedal grabbing back the Pink jersey at the Giro and Sebastian Salas holding the KOM jersey at the Tour of California! Really proud of our two local boys!
My favourite part of the Giro was recording it in the morning and waiting all day to come home from work to watch the home town hero Ryder make his country proud of him while I sat on the couch with a beer in my hand like a true Canadian.
My second favourite part was when I went for a ride Sunday afternoon (after Ryder won) in my Garmin jersey and have a car pass by me and honk. When I looked at the drive he had a big smile on his face and gave me a massive thumbs up, at that time I knew cycling was now on the upswing in Canada, Thank you Ryder!
The best moment was finding out that a grand tour has been won by a Canadian.
Favourite Giro moment was seeing Ryder’s smile at the top of Alpi di Pampeago after making up 13 seconds against Rodriguez on that climb while the other riders looked like they were about to collapse
My favourite moment of the Giro was watching Ryder ride away from the other GC favourites near the end of Stage 19. I was yelling at my TV! Rodriguez summed it up perfectly after the stage: “We were supposed to drop Ryder and he ended up dropping us.”
The atmosphere in Canada has been amazing. I’m currently on vacation halfway across the country, but I had a great conversation about Ryder with a local after Stage 20. It was so great to see that the whole country was behind him and that cycling was mainstream for a couple of days, at least. That’s the first step.
Ryder’s winning is totally cool, as is the way he did it, and the way he handled it, but the best part of this year’s Giro has to be seeing Taylor Phinney in the Maglia Rosa. The whole show has been a rolling festival of panache.
My favorite moment of the ATOC was Zabriskie winning the TT, and seeing somebody else besides Sagan in the yellow jersey. Go, Z!
Favourite Giro moment: the tactical and psychological blow dealt by Ryder at the end of stage 19 on Alpe di Pamepago.
Seeing that (umm, ‘bigger’) man in pink Giro tshirt, running up the hill with a CANADA flag as Ryder rode away from Rodriquez! What a story that picture tells!
Seeing the stage finish in Assisi, 175m out and watching my non-cycling wife fall in love with the “passion” of the pink jersey as Ryder tried his best to hold it. Her comment “now I understand” was priceless as we soaked in the peloton. Capped it off with the whole team being kind enough to autograph my giro poster the next morning. Congrats Ryder!
My favourite Giro moment was stage 7 when Ryder took the maglia rosa for the first time! My least favourite was listening to news anchors massacre the name Hesjedal on the CBC! Chapeau to Ryder, we have followed your career and correctly cheered your name for years all over Canada
Favorite moment of the Giro – Watching Christian Vande Velde & Ryder Hesjedal lead the group of favorites on the climbs on stage 20 & Watching Ryder claim overall victory in the final TT.
Favorite moment of ATOC- Seeing the American fans on the road in California cheer on the riders.
My favorite moment was seeing Ryder kiss his wife after his win, followed by bringing his daughter up on the podium. I love seeing the human side of racers, and the support of friends and family!
Watching Ivan Basso crack over and over again!
My favorite moment was also when Jens ate the bee, priceless!
when Rodrigues conceded on the second last day, knowing hesjedal was stronger on the TT
Hesjedal’s war face! http://i46.tinypic.com/x4m6nt.jpg
My best moment of the Giro was my wife rolling her eyes when I said I teared-up when Ryder took his podium and kissed his jersey. After investing three weeks of watching the argyled ones, she understood and shook her head. great team, great wife, great life.
Seeing Ryder on the podium!!!
Being at the Ride before the pros at Staples Center. Riding the real course was real a life changing expirence for me. I was hoping team Garmin Barracuda would of won the TOC.
Watching the moment when Ryder put on the pink jersey for the first time
How can I pick just one? Ryder’s eyes tearing up as OH Canada played…him crossing the line with 16 seconds..him hugging his wife (lucky woman!!) after he finished the TT. Maybe the fav is the first time he put on the pink jersey..that alone was amazing for him to wear the leader’s jersey in the Giro!
Seeing Ryder standing tall on that podium hearing Oh Canada being played in the background, it was a victory for Ryder and for Canada!
My favourite moment was watching the TT with my 13 month old son at home and seeing him do his little cheer when I was getting excited when Ryder was about to win.
Love the moment, when Ryder was on the podium. Getting his pink jersey, hearing the anthem and waving the canadian flag (pinned on a hockey stick).
stage 17, which was culminated by this shot:
http://velonews.competitor.com/files/2012/05/hesjedal-scarponi-lead.jpg
as the GC ‘Bigs’ were trying to figure out how to break Ryder and when to attack, little would they know he would be doing the attacks.
My favorite part of the Giro was seeing a Castelli wearing team take the Maglia Rosa of course!! Next to the red scorpion, the Giro pink one has to be my favorite!
My favourite moment has to be the TT on the final day of the Giro- such final day drama! It’s for that exact reason that I love them! There is an unpredictability to it as well. Made for a more exciting last day of the Giro for me.
Listening to commemtators trying to explain why Taylor Phinny got screwed by the Italian moto driver…..
My favorite part of the Giro was, of course, on the Stelvio when Ruder realized no one else was gonna reel De Gent back and he took it upon himself to do it. That is why he deserved to win!
David harmon on Eurosport on the second last day “sean Ryder looks uncomfortable”
Sean Kelly “that’s just the way he rides”
David “he looks like he’s cooked”
Sean “No there he goes”
The best part of the Giro, we all dont like to say it, but the crashes! when Cav hit the dec at 70kph, it was the biggest upset of the tour, the red jersey and pink jersey down on the tarmac. Taylor Phinney and Mark Cavendish, riding the TTT as well as they both did with their injuries, inspiring!
theTTT because it showed how a team works together for a single purpose.
Best moment was hands down “pants man” (not ‘hands down pants’ man)
Watching CVV bury himself in the Stelvio to help RH – awesome
My favorite moment in the giro was while watching the 15th stage. I thought that it was amazing to see how Rodriguez came from back to the front. He passed everyone without diffuculty.
But when he was entierly at the front, Rabottini won from him.
I loved watching this, because I think that less experienced riders should also get a chance. And I love to see someone like him win from a ‘big cycler’ like Rodriguez.
Ryder’s grimace/smile at the top of the climb when he knew that the Giro was in touching distance.
I loved the Eurosport footage of Jack Bauer in a tug of war with Ryder Hesjedal over the pink jersey when it was jammed in Jack Bauer’s brake caliper!! This tug of war symbolised the struggle over the pink jersey as it moved from Hesjedal to Rodriguez during the most awesome Giro. An amazing race guys!!
I thought the tears welling up in Ryder’s eyes during the National Anthem was the best scene in the Giro. I felt it.
Stage 19 and 20 were my highlights of the Giro. Specially when Ryder attacked on the Alpe di Pampeago and got some time on Purito.
Listening to Oh Canada and seeing Ryder tear up atop the podium after the performance of a lifetime by him and all Garmin-Barracuda team members. at this years unforgettable Giro. (Especially CVD for his epic pull up the Stelvio!)
Yes I must say Ryder’s preformance in the last to mountain stages showed why he would be a good Giro winner. The TT is the icing on the cake, make’in Canada proud thank for you support of our national treasure.
The best race moment for the Giro in my opinion was stage 17, watching the GC favorites really show their stuff and show why they were the favorites. But really the best moment of the Giro was Pozzovivo playing the piano on the post-race show, twice!
Favorite moment was Ryder’s embrace with his wife after finishing the Milan TT, and then watching him walk away from that slightly dazed and looking like he was attempting to grasp what he had just done.
Watching Hesjedal steal back some time on stage 20 basically guaranteeing himself the Giro.
The whole giro was exciting. I can’t pick just one moment.
My favourite part … Hesjedal kicking Rodriguez’s ass in the last time trial !!
I couldn’t pick a favourite part, though, Ryder was amazing and definitely a joy to watch!
Favourite moment at the Giro; when the Canadian National Anthem was played in Milan, and seeing tears well up in Ryder’s eyes. Priceless!
My favorite moment was Dave Zabriskie goofing around on the podium, especially after his TT win. He brings his kids up, accepts all his gifts and then tries to avoid his kiss from the podium ladies. They end up kissing him at this weird angle and Dave turns bright red, ha!
Argyle Armada is STRONG this year.
Watching a Castelli sponsored team win the Giro! Go Ryder!
After following Ryder’s career closely since he joined Garmin (Slipstream) and Jonathan Vaughters in 2008, to see him grow into a Grand Tour champion and be the first Canadian to stand on the highest step of the podium at a Grand Tour was very special. One specific moment? Hard to pinpoint, but… when he “announced his presence with authority” on Stage 19, and claimed back 13 seconds with a strong attack leaving the other GC guys in the dust. He had the demeanor, poise, confidence and strength of a champion. Oh Canada, Oh Hesjedal!
Ramūnas Navardauskas taking the maglia rosa after the TTT was my favourite moment. Seeing such a hard working domestique taking the leaders jersey was awesomel. His work in the 2011 TdF was superb, it’s nice to seem him get some time in the spotlight.
Ryder was humble and humility he did win!
ryder go go!
My favorite moment of the 2012 Giro, was Ryder’s relentless attacks when every GC contendor was isolated. Bike racing (for me) is about passion and energy…Ryders attacks were very impressive and why I love to watch it. Christian’s performance was equally impressive up the Stelvio!
Best moment of TOC had to be the crazy dicing on Mt. Baldy. Lots of guts, strong legs and big hearts.
Favourite moment? Well, I am Canadian so we all know what that was! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO RYDER!!!!
I absolutely loved Ryder’s attack in St 19 on Alpe di Pamepago. He was challenged by the rest of the GC’s and then he dismissed them easily, in my opinion – to say to them, “Let me show you how to drop someone, eh….” Then, Christian absolutely destroying himself on Stelvio to bring Ryder up the monstrous climb. Brilliant riding by Ryder and great work by Garmin-Barracuda in the whole Giro, starting with the TTT and ending with great support in every stage.
Rodriguez statement after the stage – “We were supposed to drop Ryder and he dropped us instead.”!
The best moment was to see a Costa Rican win a stage for the first time! we are proud of Andrey Amador!
Stage 14 when Ryder pulled away from the GC contenders and retook the maglia rosa. There was about 3kms left and he just pulled away and they could do nothing!!!! It was a great feeling and that was when I thought that there was a great chance that he would win. He just took it to them and no response, nothing. 26 seconds, BOOM!!!
Dave Z in his Capt America skin suit winning the time trial. A close second is watching him hang on up Mt. Baldy to preserve his podium spot.
The anguish of watching one of the greatest climbers in the world Mr Tommy D falling aside on Baldy followed by the ecstasy of watching the little guys from Colombia (Mr Atapuma in particular) rise up and literally lift an entire nation up not only over Baldy but again into the world of quality cycling, truly inspiring
My favorite moment came before the start of Stage 2 of the TOC. For the 4th year in a row, we took our son Aaron to the TOC. Aaron has type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and was not expected to make it to his second birthday. Aaron is now 4 ½, is almost completely paralyzed (SMA is like Lou Gehrig’s disease affecting muscles, but not mentality), and will never ride a bike himself, but Aaron loves cycling, and especially the Garmin team. In their usual welcoming manner, the Garmin crew was kind enough to give my son a hat, which was then signed by Tom Danielson and Jonathan Vaughters. Aaron spent the rest of the TOC asking to see the “bikes” at all hours of the day, watching the action on the Tour Tracker and on TV during his respiratory care treatments, and then cheering for his team favorites Dave Z, Tommy D, and Heinrich, every day of the tour. This amazing Garmin team brings immeasurable joy to our family, and especially to Aaron.
We were at ATOC Sonora Stage 4 start, so got some great pics with Tommy D, Dave Z & Heinrich (in green at the time).
Favorite moment of ATOC was Mt Baldy – killer ride and for the Giro, Jason D (above) said it best. Ryder is a class act!
My favourite moment of the Giro d’Italia this year has to be the Team Time Trial on stage 4. The team were fantastic throughout and ended up deserved winners. What made it even better was seeing The Honey Badger in pink after it ! Unfortunately Ras couldn’t hold onto the pace and fell off which could have added a few more seconds to the win if needed. In the end Ryder was kept high up in the GC and stayed there for the rest of the race where he belongs.
My favorite part of the Giro was the first time Ryder pulled on the magilla rosa. He was unlikely to keep it all the way through but the excitement that he may get it again was inspiring.
My favorite moment at ATOC was seeing one of the Garmin staff taking time to be nice to my 4 year old cousin, Aaron, who has SMA-spinal muscular atrophy. One year when it rained they let him take shelter under a tent. This year they spent time with mom and dad, and gave him a hat signed by Tommy D.
My favorite part the ATOC was watching the last stage on NBC in FULL HD!!!!! EPIC!!! (and Sagan was pretty awesome too =) )
The Giro? 100% pure LEGEND!!! Everyone gave 1000%/100%, AMAZING!!! So proud to have watched!
#Ryderislegend!
Seeing Ryder fly the Canadian flag on a hockey stick on the podium in Milan summed up perfectly what it means to be a Canadian cyclist. Seeing him achieve such greatness and showing such class and humility and respect reflects well not only on himself, but on us Canadians. Thanks!
Well not a Garmin moment but my favorite was in the ATOC on Mount Baldy when Chris Horner tried to take the Yellow Jersey with his very gutsy breakaway. Love to see him go for it like that. That, to me, defined what Pro Cycling is all about. It reminded me of four words:
Innovate, Sacrifice, Unite, Succeed
There is a certain team I know that uses this approach. Any idea which team I might be talking about?
My favourite moment was watching the giant grin creep onto Ryder’s face as he knew the race was his. It started as a small smirk and gradually grew to a full blown ear to ear clown smile :D
He deserved it and I’m so happy a canadian from my favourite team took the top spot on the podium!
My favorite moment was, when I was driving with my bike on Mallorca and after coming back to the hotel watching the Giro. My legs burned but I was happy! :)
Giro: Final Stage and the ceremony
tof: jens voigts bee action
Bonjour, J’ai adoré la dernière étape de montagne lorsque les autres ne voulaient pas prendre le relais, vraiment fier de voir un canadien leur en montrer! Félicitation Ryder!
My favorite Giro moment was the beautiful climb on the Mortirolo with the big final on the Stelvio.
Oh yeh, and the win of Ryder of course
David Zabriskie busting out the Captain America speedsuit to win the TOC TT!
Ryder’s amazing win of the Giro! Go Castelli!
My hands down to you. Congratulations. Your performance was superb.