My new hero

I'm big on sports heroes.  For example, I have yet to take off my Lance Armstrong "Livestrong" band, even though the popularity of the little yellow rubber things has diminished in recent months.  I bought a Trek because of him, and I wear his 2004 Tour de France jersey (though of course, since he's switched teams, it's outdated.) I'm an unabashed fan, having read all his books (borrowed from my fiancee); I've often remarked that he and my brother are the only men in the world younger than myself to whom I look up in unqualified admiration.

For the record, I don't need comments drawing attention to Lance's personal life.

I have other heroes as well, especially in the ultra-running world -- perhaps because its one of the few sports where elite women can beat elite men over the same distance and in the same conditions.  (See the Pam Reed story).  But as of today, I've got a new one: Ellen MacArthur, the 28 year-old Englishwoman who yesterday set the record for a solo sail 'round the world.  It's an extraordinary story that's getting bewilderingly little coverage in this country.

Comments

[Wendryn]

I've been watching her for a few years - she is awesome. She's done some truly amazing things - the Vendee Globe, where she came in second, becoming the fastest woman, and continuing to sail through injuries. She's incredible.

[Hugo Schwyzer]

Well, I would have been watching her if the damned American media gave her more coverage. I need to read about something other than the fortunes of Glasgow Celtic when I go to BBC Sport.

[zuzu]

Did ESPN2 give any coverage? The cover more-unusual sports.

Hugo, I'm going to post this here because I know you'll see it and it won't get lost. I've really enjoyed your blog, but since the invasion of the MRAs and some of their more extremist detractors, the comments are no longer a place where I can find interesting, if occasionally maddening, discussion. They've turned into a free-for-all of misogyny, misandry, whining about custody and hedonistic feminism. I'm afraid I can't post here any longer, and since if I read some of these comments I'll not be able to resist the urge, I won't be lurking, either. Which is too bad, because I'd been heartened to see what a thoughtful blog this was, even if I don't agree with all your stances.

Be well, and I'm sure I'll "see" you around.

[Hugo Schwyzer]

I'm hoping, zuzu, that the new commenting rules will help... thanks for all you have given here.

[stanton]

zuzu - I hope I was not one of the ones chasing you away. If you are still reading, I offer to bow out myself, if it would give you the space to be able to continue with a forum that has been valuable to you.

[Jason]

Well, if you like Lance (and I'm also a fan) you may want to check out Oprah today since he'll be on there (you are off work after all).