the fabled
forest of
Arenberg in this year?s edition.   The 2.4 km section of the race features some of the most brutal and hazardous cobbles in the whole event.   ASO and the local councils raised the funds to repair the section of pave, having been omitted in 2005.  

Jean-Francois Pescheux, race director warned however, "Don't be fooled, the renovation?s of the road don't make Arenberg a boulevard. It remains a tricky stretch of cobblestones. But now, Paris-Roubaix will not be a lottery anymore."

Having battled against life threatening cancer himself, news has broken that Sheryl Crow, former fianc?e of Lance Armstrong, has undergone surgery for breast cancer.   In a statement, Armstrong said, "I was devastated to hear this news.   Once again I'm reminded of just how pervasive this illness is as it has now touched someone I love deeply."

He added that, "Based on my contact in recent days with Sheryl Crow, her doctor, and her family, I am confident that she will have a full and complete recovery and the world will be a better place for it.   And to all of her fans and friends out there, please keep Sheryl in your thoughts and prayers yet know that I have never known a stronger woman in my life."

Until next week,

Ian
ian@roadcycling.com

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