Joe Pitts: “the U.S. domination of the Tour-de-France continues. For 7 consecutive years, Lance Armstrong dominated the event, but…”

“the U.S. domination of the Tour-de-France continues. For 7 consecutive years, Lance Armstrong dominated the event, but his departure last year left the cycling world wondering who would step up to claim his crown. On Sunday we found out. His name is Floyd Landis. Floyd hails from Farmersville, Pennsylvania, just outside of Ephrata, in the heart of Lancaster County. His parents were attending a service at Martindale Mennonite Church during their son's triumphant ride through the streets of Paris. His dad said, ``I was praying for him.'' Mr. Speaker, Floyd's performance was an inspiration. Though in need of a hip replacement, his determination and willpower was unwavering. One writer who has been covering the event for 18 years called it, ``the best performance in the modern history of the tour.'' On behalf of the entire 16th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, as well as Lancaster, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Floyd and his family. He has represented his hometown and his country well, and I applaud his tremendous performance in cycling's most prestigious event. ____________________”