Quick hitter

It's that time of year again and the Tour de France has begun. The riders, with Lance Armstrong leading the pack, are now in the Alps. Armstrong, known well for punishing other riders into submission through the mountains, has continued to do much of the same this year. Trailing two days ago, he has started to build a soft, early cushion in the peaks and currently leads by 38 seconds. Could he really do it again? Certainly it seems so as he continues to stay on par for yet another victory in the world's premier bicycle race. I'm interested to see if those jealous French fans will spit on him again as he closes towards the finish line of that day's stage. \n-- The MLB All-Star Weekend didn't lack excitement this year after Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bobby Abreu blasted 41 home runs in the Century 21 Home Run Derby. This certainly, along with a round where he had 24 alone, is a record that might not ever be touched. He has yet to be tested for steroids ... \n-- Indiana Pacers forward Ron Artest has met with the media for the first time since his outburst at The Palace of Auburn Hills. The outburst, which resulted in a season-long suspension, kept the team from playing at full-strength and gave the Pacers a lack of a strong wing defender. Artest, playing in the rookie/free agent camp, knows that he owes the team a shot at the championship after last season's debacle. The real question to Pacer success next season is whether the injury or suspension bug will bite again. \n-- This upcoming weekend, the British Open will be the next stop on the PGA Tour. St. Andrews, one of the most challenging championship courses, will play host to this year's elite. I just feel that Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and some dark horse candidate will be at the top of the leader board when the final round comes to fruition on Sunday. It's hard to bet against Woods but I'm going to do it -- I'll take a longshot. \n-- Two quick notes in parting. For all of you video game lovers, the premier college sports game, NCAA Football 2006, has made its way to the market. The game, featuring a new "Heisman" mode, is certain to keep you playing for hours. It's amazing how quickly Memorial Stadium can sell out when you've had back to back victories over Iowa and Ohio State. Also, Afleet Alex, third in the Kentucky Derby and winner of the Preakness and Belmont Stakes plans to run in the $1 million Haskell Invitational at Monmouth Park in Oceanport, N.J. on August 7. The year's most dominating three-year old looks to add another big purse to his already impressive resume for trainer Tim Ritchey.