Sam Brownback: “In the world of sports, there are competitions, there are grueling tests of strength and endurance, and there is the…”

“In the world of sports, there are competitions, there are grueling tests of strength and endurance, and there is the Tour de France. For 22 days--through 20 different stages-- over 2,286 miles--over mountains--across valleys--through cities--some of the world's greatest athletes ride. They compete against each other, the elements, the terrain and themselves, primarily with the hope of simply completing the ride. Competing in the Tour de France, there are the great athletes, there are the elite athletes, and there is Lance Armstrong. On his Circum Vitae, Lance might list himself as a two time Olympian, a two time US Champion, World Champion, or--a feat boasted by only eight riders since the beginning of the tour in 1903--a three time Tour de France winner. On this past Sunday, July 29, the 29 year old Texan pulled up to the Champs-Elysees, six minutes and 44 seconds ahead of his next closest competitor. It was his third victory at the Tour de France in as many years. While he has been reluctant to accept the title, many of his fellow cyclists consider him to be 'the Patron'--the unquestioned boss of the race. However, as remarkable as his competitive achievements may be, Mr. Armstrong's Circum Vitae has one addition that establishes him as a truly remarkable human being--he is a cancer survivor.”