Team Presentation

The evening began with a silent auction and plenty of conversation in the halls of the auditorium. After everyone found their seats the program began with live music and dancing followed by a poetry reading by the MC. Video clips were mixed with introductions and the Astana riders were escorted on the stage by the dancers one by one. Interviews followed and the program ended with a standing ovation. I had never attended a Pro Tour Team Presentation but I have to say it was quite an event... a medley of entertainment!The best part of the night was the dinner for the teams, staff, and handful of VIPs. By this time it was well past 9pm and my hunger was only surpassed by my fatigue. But after a little authentic New Mexican food I was ready for a second trip to the buffet line. Oh, and there was birthday cake which created the most entertaining game for the night... try to guess which Pro Tour riders would eat cake. I won't name names but there were more than a few. And the most impressive show of self control was the Tour-Quality rider who enjoyed one small bite of his dessert and pushed the rest away. I didn't torture myself and passed on the cake entirely. more to come.