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Courage and grace

Floyd Landis' gutsy comeback after surrendering the yellow jersey in the Tour de France is an inspirational sports achievement.

By TIMES EDITORIALS
Published July 22, 2006

Floyd Landis cracked during the most critical challenge of his career as a professional athlete. It was Wednesday, Day 16 of the grueling Tour de France and the final climb in the Alps. Landis hit the wall of physical and mental exhaustion that may as well have been made of concrete. He surrendered the coveted yellow jersey, ended up in 11th place, more than 8 minutes behind the new leader, and appeared to have lost any chance of winning the Tour.

Most bikers in that situation would have been looking forward to next year, but there may not be a next year for Landis. A biking accident three years ago left him with a hip condition now so debilitating and painful that he can't cross his legs or walk more than three blocks. Yet he competes in a 2,200-mile bike race that has been compared to running a marathon for 20 straight days. Following this year's Tour, Landis likely will get an artificial hip.

On Thursday, after some soul searching and a few hours sleep, Landis made what many consider the greatest comeback in Tour history. With 80 miles and three mountains between him and the day's finish line, Landis announced to his rivals that he was going for it. "I told them to go drink some Coke because we are leaving on the first climb if you want to come along," he recalled.

No one joined him as he raced his way back into contention.

Landis seemed to be the only one not surprised by his reversal of fortune. "I came here to win the race and I'm not done fighting yet," he said afterward. Now in third place and only 30 seconds out of first, he could retake the yellow jersey in today's time trial, a Landis strength.

If he falls short, he will be disappointed, but those pulling for him shouldn't be. This is the best of what sports offers - inspiration to persevere in the face of setbacks. Considering what is going on in the wider world, we needed such a display of courage and grace. So good luck, Floyd.

[Last modified July 22, 2006, 01:17:02]