Lance stays strong
Lance Armstrong remained a split second behind leader Fabian Cancellara on Thursday after a day of treacherous riding in the rain and the mountains looming at the Tour de France.
Thor Hushovd of Norway led a mass sprint finish to capture the sixth stage along wet roads south of the French border in Spain. Cancellara of Switzerland stayed just ahead of the seven-time champion following the 113-mile ride from Gerona to Barcelona.
“Tomorrow is an important day,” Armstrong said. “I don’t know if it’s the most important day, but it’s definitely a big appointment on this Tour.”
Phelps back on top
Michael Phelps broke the world record in the 100-meter butterfly at the U.S. national championships on Thursday, just two months after returning from a suspension that was part of the longest layoff of his career.
The 14-time Olympic gold medalist swam the two-lap final in 50.22 seconds at the Indiana University Natatorium. He lowered Ian Crocker’s mark of 50.40 set at the 2005 world championships in Montreal.
– “No more turf toe, no more sacks. No more shoulder problems, and no more interceptions, only touchdown passes. I’m going to miss you No. 9.” — Tennessee Titans head coach Jeff Fisher at Thursday’s memorial service for former quarterback Steve McNair, who was found dead Saturday.
– Longtime Colorado Avalanche captain Joe Sakic is officially retiring after 20 seasons and two Stanley Cup titles. The 40-year-old Sakic has been the face of the franchise since the team moved to Denver in 1995.
– L.A. Clippers sign overall No. 1 pick Blake Griffin – Detroit Pistons make John Kuester their new head coach
