Lance Armstrong has made himself the favorite to become the first rider to win the Tour six times. He was such a model of strength and composure on the climb to La Mongie, and I would think tonight has destroyed his rivals in one climb.

It was almost a case of deja vu as he destroyed the field just like he did in 2002. However, this time, he also broke the man who took him to victory two years ago --Roberto Heras.

Tomorrow's stage is a killer, and in 2002, Armstrong dominated this one as well, so we'll see.

My hero of the day was Thomas Voeckler, the leader for eight days who has lived up to the reputation of this great race and has become a great fighter. He will lose his lead, but when he does, he will have more respect than he can imagine just now.