To the Ardennes and beyond...

[flipping_elves]

Had a spare half hour today so decided to check up to see who's racing what.  Can't put them all down, so here's who caught my eye.  Warning: personal bias will be an issue :)

Amstel Gold:
Jakob, Andy, Valvarde, Quintana, Bouhanni, Sagan, Gilbert, J Rod. Eddy BH, Clockwork Kiryienka, Hesjedal, Tommy V
No Contador or Sanchez

Fleche Wallonne:
Berto, Andy, Jens, Valvarde, Quintana, Gilbert, Jakob, Iglinsky, Gasparotto, Porte, Clockwork Kiryienka, J Rod
No Sagan, Sanchez or Europcar

L-B-L:
Berto, Andy, J Rod, Sanchez, Valverde, Gilbert, Jakob, Froome, Porte,
Wiggo is down as a reserve

Giro:
Nibali, Hesjedal, Gesink, Matti (omg and YAAY), Kittel, the boy Taylor, Cadel
Sky are showing as  Wiggo, Henao, Lopez, Joe Dom, Uran, Clockwork Kiryenka, Cataldo,and  Pate with Kennaugh as reserve.

TDF: very early to say this and lord kows where there info is comig from but Sky are showing so far as: Froome, Wiggo, EBH, Porte and Siutsou. Will there be a place for Bernie???

I got this info from the website PCS They seem to be reliable nearer the actual time of the race  but I'm assuming some of this is here say  I haven't seen anything official from the teams (incl Sky) themselves on a lot of this... but it's fun to speculate YES?

Comments

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Cadel is riding the Giro, too

Also, yes, I'm sure Bernie will be at the Tour. They'd be stupid not to take him

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

Of course he is... I forgot that.. Have added it now.

Hmm, I'm not so sure. He can't ride pace up mountains and they won't be hunting sprinter stages. I want him to be there because I will be there ... so am secrtely keeping my fingers crossed.

ETA: OK, you got me again.. who is THAT icon?

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Though he did say he was doing it more to ride into form than actually going to win, but you never know

He's still one of the best people at his job and you know he's good for morale

That's total Chris-Anker and his adorable little face

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

You know, I never warmed to Cadel... So I don't mind too much how he does. I think it is wise to avoid a TJ face off at the tour, see how he does when the buck really does stop with him.

I know, but Sky have gone a bit GC mad, and I think he may fall foul of the sky uphill amount aim train. We shall see.

Aw bless, he looks ... Unique

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

I never used to like him either, but then he became kind of awesome when he was world champion- sort of never giving up and much more attacking than he'd ever been before- and George said such nice things about him when they joined the same team and so I sort of started liking him. And the way he won the Tour was just epic

I still think he's got a good shot. And if he doesn't, I'll make him have awesome sex with Brad in fic to make up for it

He's still adorable, though

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

Well if George says so...

Ohhh... You know I almost don't want him to make the team now. For such a bed hopper, he has been very sparse with his favours at SKY; must be Tony's influenece.

Never said he wasn't... adorably unique and also Danish... Nuff said

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Yeah, seriously, though- that really did help change my mind

Maybe he doesn't want himself to make them team either....

Yeah, he is very special

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

I totally have a bit of a thing for them, now. They could be strangely awesome together. Plus, you know, maybe they had a thing when they were both on Columbia and it didn't end well leading to much angst at Sky until they fixed it all and had more awesome sex

I totally approve of that. I'm sure it would be a nice kit

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

Do you know, I had totally forgotten they were ever on the same team before Sky... couldn't have been for long. Perhaps Bernie 'toyed with his affections' when Brad was between Dave episodes. He may have left him bruised emotionally, leading to some awkwardness at Sky. that would beed to be worked out in some ... way.

It would have to involve red and white, but NOT at all like Jakobs horrid TT skinsuit. I swear he has no fashion luck this year.

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

It was in 2008, right before Brad went to Garmin with Dave so maybe it is all connected. I'm not sure Bernie would ever be that mean, though- maybe he was all damaged too from worrying about one of his BFFs, Tom, because I think it was right around the time Tom was falling apart. Obviously that wasn't conducive to either of them being emotionally capable of carrying on some kind of real relationship so they're both all damaged from it and it's hard from both sides

I don't think Jakob has good fashion luck at all. Remember all those scarves he used to wear?

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

So right before Brad and Dave were all happy and together at Garmin.
Bernie would never knowingly be really horrible to anyone.. He might get cross but not spiteful.
Oh poor Tom, was that the cocaine period?
So this would be like a sort of second chance type fic. Neither of them in a position to do anything about it the first time, but the attraction was there ready to be rekindled.

Oi you! There is NOTHING wrong with the Fuglsang scarf... Well maybe the LayOpard trek presentation ones, but that was only because the others looked so wrong in theirs, Jakob was rocking his. Besides which, I may or may not be wearing a Fuglsang scarf as I write! And no I am not wearing rose coloured spectacles. :)

However, if asked to choose between Fuglsang scarf and Matti in Fred Perry top, there would be no contest. Do not ever ask me that, I don't want Jakob sulking again.

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Maybe it was even Dave, unknowingly or totally on purpose, that got Brad to see that maybe he could make things work with Bernie
Yeah, I don't think Bernie is capable of being mean, at least not on purpose
I think that was right around the time Tom was falling apart, thought it also spilled over into 2009, if I remember correctly
Exactly- they couldn't do it the first time, but now they've grown as people, they're in the right place, at the same time, so they can be whatever they want to be together

But you have to admit that Jakob still doesn't always make the best fashion choices, some scarves included (though not all of them are horrible, admittedly)

Well, Matti was pouting yesterday- maybe Jakob should be pouting today

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

But Dave loves Brad really, even when they are not together, so I think it must be unknowingly. I must read back to Tom falling apart period. I think it would help me make sense of Tom and his choices. I wish Brad and Bernie all the very best and shall enjoy reading about them immensely. :)

This is sadly true, there was the Claudia Fischer T shirt, and also one of him with D&G scark worn in the fashion of a cute terrier...

He should pout all of time, except when he has his shy smile or his moody face.

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Maybe Dave ends up as miserable as Brad when they try to be together though and maybe a part of him thinks pushing Brad towards someone else would help him too. Maybe he just didn't realise what happened with Bernie and Brad before so he didn't know that he was really pushing Brad away from him for good because maybe here, in this 'verse, it's Bernie that's Brad's forever person
If you do go back and read about Tom's history, you're totally braver than me- I don't think I could go into too much detail with it. I just know he's better now and that's great

See- he doesn't always make good choices

So it's good as long as he's making some facial expression? ;P

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

Oh my goodness, you have thought about this a lot haven't you? Of the two scenarios you propose, I
think I would like to read the second one... So sad for Dave, and yet so happy for Bernie and Brad.

I am going to try after I write the Danish porn out of my system. I hope it doesn't get too bad. I find it interesting that he is fine now, he must have had lots of help and be such a strong person.

Of course he doesn't. Have recently watched video where he was asked "we notice you always have your name printed on your shoes, do all your shoes have this?" To which he replied that most of them do because you can design Nike like that on their custom fit online site. Really? Who would want their name on their shoes if you weren't being paid to do it? Although, would Prob come in hand for Andy who is always loosing his possessions.

Absolutely, a wooden face, no matter how pretty, is never going to do it for me.

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

Brad and Dave are always in my head somewhere. Plus, when I think of Bernie/Brad, I kind of always imagine they had something (or were at least feeling something for each other) when they were both at Columbia. Also, Cav totally didn't notice anything was happening, because back then he was way busy being totally newly in love with George
Maybe then Dave can take some time to find his own forever person though, but maybe it'll be a lot harder for him

How is the porn writing going, btw?
I think Tom probably just had too much, too young and fell apart in a very bad way, but, yeah, he totally must have had some really good people around him

I was so going to say having his name on his shoes would be an Andy thing. It is weird, though- I mean, it's not like he's going to forget his own name

Good point.

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

I think it would be harder for Dave because he is a wary person. I think deep down he doesn't think he deserves to be happy or to have a forever person. He always keeps a little bit of himself locked way, and pushing people away is a defence mechanism. I hope he gets a forever though, cos he deserves it. AGHHH, have we just talked about a huge irrevocable schism in Brad/Dave verse. Quick back away and delete the comments, this can not be right.

Well. Porn writing was going well, but then not well. Hence all this time on LJ with you guys, which is brilliant distraction therapy :) do I have to go back to porn? Perhaps I ought, I think I left them strung out and wracked with pleasure somewhere behind the bike sheds. Poor guys, I should at least provide tissues and blankets.

Poor Tom. Belgium is prob not the easiest place to be a cycling superstar. Glad he's through the other side. Hope people are looking after Sagan...

It is isn't it? But he would probably have his named by his mum with a sticky label, not stitched in gold thread to the outside.. Oh Jakob and your mad fashion choices

:)

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

And when Dave does decide to let someone in, he does it completely, leading to more potential hurt
Hey, let's face it- they torture themselves more than we ever could

Distraction is always good, but if you want to get the porn finished, you will have to go back to it sadly. Maybe leave them there a little while longer so they behave when you finally do get back to them

I was also thinking that it's a good job Andy has such an amazing family around him or he might have fallen apart worse than he seems to have done

Perhaps we need to hold an intervention for Jakob and his fashion choices

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

That would certainly fit with his personality type as laid out so far. You know, as I wrote the words of the last comment about Dave in the previous comment, it struck me that they could very well apply to Brad too. Too such troubled personalities are always going to be fragile in a relationship, so it's no wonder we get the breakdowns we do.

I know, I will... Am trying tonight as I seem to be in the mood. I think they'll behave for me :O

This is true for both Andy and Frank. They are a very tight knot unit, and that is just as well.

Yes, he should probably have help. If not us, then a girlfriend , there must be one surely, or ...
You know I've got to say it..... Matttttiiiiiii

[caz-kenobi.livejournal.com]

They're definitely similar in some ways, but I guess where Brad is more open and vocal about things, Dave is definitely more closed off. I think when they're working together, they're more perfect than anyone, but when it's falling apart, it's the biggest mess ever. You know, this is turning into the same way I always felt about Lance and Berto

I hope they do behave

I think it's done them more help than it has harm

If Matti hasn't gotten through to Jakob after all these years, I'm not sure he ever will

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

OOPS SORRY, PRESSED THE WRONG BUTTON. THE COMMENT APPEARS BELOW POSTED AT 02.44PM

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

You mean I can Matti stalk at the Giro!!! Now I have to visit more teams, this is going to require planning so that I can get the best photos!

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

So the website says, but there's nothing in stone from TST as yet. Would be cool though, yeah?

You def need a plan... You maybe need to try the Mambo as well, cos he won't be there in the Tour.. except as a guest of Andy/Jakob, and then he might be a bit distracted.

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

Oh yes!! Matti stalking!

Maybe Jakob & Andy will pay him a visit - cause Andy will be on a break from racing after Liege until he goes to Cali (he will be training & stuff but no races), don't know about Jakob though but I imagine it will be something similar - I know it means he'd be distracted there too but the chance to Mambo in Italiano...

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

He seems really nice, bet he would smile and say hello... Which you would film of course.

Ohhh, yes. Get the boys there, they would be able to get their own back for all the teasing that's going on right now. They could be standing casually at the start and finish lines, with gorgeous italian cakes and gelatos. No jeans for poor Matti of course, but think of the lycra possibilities. He'd surely be slightly distracted all day... I think a distracted Matti would be so adorable, and potentially very hot!

Choose your option to finish the following sentence, you may choose any combination of cyclist(s).
"The chance to Mambo Italiano with Matti/Andy/Jakob"...

1. ... is not be sneezed at.
2. ... would be the highlight of my day.
3. ... is not my cup of tea thank you very much, give me Cuddles any day.
4. ... could only be bettered if Bernie Eisel was an option.
5. ... would be worth every euro I have to pay.
6. ... should be grabbed very firmly with both hands.
7. ... are you joking me, all that gyrating would put my hip out.
8. ... would be a treat best shared with friends.

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

Oh but of course - have to learn how to use the video on my camera!

Exactly - especially on the 1st stage as its a circuit course round Naples, so there are multiple opportunities for teasing, and Matti having to adjust himself on the bike - and yes totally getting distracted!

Can I have multiple options please cause if so the I'd pick Matti & Andy & Jakob with options 1, 2, 5, 6, & 8 and would definitely have to add number 4!! I'd then make sure there were lots of pictures and films to help with number 8 for those that can't be there!!

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

Get some practice in before you go, just in case. Oh but then perhaps still photos would be better than film anyway. Perhaps in the end, you shouldn't worry about Looking at riders through a viewfinder, and just concentrate on using your eyes, and searing it into your memories forever.

You can have all of those options, especially because you have chosen option 8. I'll just drop an e-mail to the Giro boss, I'm sure he can arrange it.

OMG, distracted Matti adjusting a Lycra clad bulge may just have scorched my imagination.. Those boys are in so much trouble, but he can't say he wasn't warned.

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

I shall try - need at least some photographic evidence just to prove my memories are correct, and show even more detail (cause you don't always remember every tiny detail)!

Yes please - can I have a VIP pass that gives me access to the inside of the buses (I've seen the outside of some before already last year) and makes the riders do what I want :)

You're welcome :) Oh yeah its such a hard life for them, a vicious cycle of teasing and sex ;)

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

That's the ticket, just sometimes I get so caught up in trying to get perfect photos, that I forget to actually watch what is going on .. The bigger picture. All the details are required.

I shall try my best, because it is legit research you would be carrying out. Might be able to get you on the Vini Fantini minibus *makes innocent eyes*. I may also need to provide a list of possible requirements that the riders have to face.

It certainly is a 'hard' life. They should be grateful for the teasing and awesome sex.. It would just be boring else.

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

Oh yes, or you wait that split second too long and don't get the photo (or have too much/not enough zoom on)

Thank you, any help would be most welcome!

That's 1 thing they can say - life is never ever dull (although it can't have been fun for Andy last year, cause he could only watch and not join in cause it hurt too much :( - but I bet Matti and Jakob tried to make it better cause its not like Jakob was racing much either!)

[flipping-elves.livejournal.com]

And the speed, by the time I've checked that, I would have missed the station altogether.

You are welcome... You must get on the bus.

Matti and Jakob helped by having fun together and letting Andy watch... Until he was well enough to join in.. ;)

[maddogclare.livejournal.com]

Must get on bus - try and get photo of bedroom ;)

And knowing Andy he'd trying to join in before he was well enough, and end up hurting himself some more - and then Matti and Jakob would have had to kiss the booboo better!

(Also Wiggo is def not doing LBL, he's gonna do Trentino and the head to the Giro - maybe I'll see him training in the area before the race actually starts:)