Geoffrey Nicholson, in his book The Great Bike Race (1977), wrote that the ?episode illustrated ? forcefully Merkx?s generosity and his professional conscience.   By carrying on ? and especially by doing so as an active combatant, making light of his injuries ? he granted Thevenet a total triumph.?

Armstrong, no less a professional than Merckx, will surely be an active combatant in this, his last Tour.   He is offering his challengers the opportunity ? the last ever -- of a total triumph against him.   It is an opportunity they would be foolish not to pursue with every available bit of energy and determination they have.

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