Lance Armstrong is one of today’s most well-known names, both in professional cycling and professional sports in general. Born in 1971, he went on to win the Tour de France 7 years in a row from 1999 to 2005, a record-breaking run that guaranteed him a place in sports history. What makes his triumphs even more impressive was that he managed them after suffering from cancer that the doctors believed would likely end his life. He underwent grueling treatments including chemotherapy and surgery, however, and went on to make his name in the world of sports. He’s won numerous awards, been named Athlete of the Year, Sportsman of the Year, Best Male Athlete and other among numerous titles.

During his career, Lance Armstrong faced allegations of drug use. He was accused of using performance enhancing drugs, steroids among them, but the allegations never proved true. In fact, Armstrong viewed the charges as ridiculous, stating that he was probably the most tested athlete in the world. Due to his previous battles with cancer, his physical testing was much more detailed that many other athletes to ensure that he was well enough to compete, and as a constant check to make sure the testicular cancer which had spread to his lungs and brain and nearly cost him his life, wasn’t trying to return.

After his retirement in 2005, he dedicated himself to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, a foundation he created that supports those suffering from cancer. He also helped found Athletes for Hope, an organization that helps and encourages professional athletes to get involved in charities, and encourages others to volunteer their time and efforts toward charitable causes. He cofounded this venture along with other top athletes like Tennis pro Andre Agassi, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, racing star Jeff Gordon, pro skater Tony Hawk, baseball player Cal Ripkin, and many other worldwide sports stars.

Lance Armstrong has also participated in other sports since his retirement. He’s driven the pace car in the Indianapolis 500, has competed in two New York City Marathons, in 2006 and 2007. In 2006, a camera followed him the entire time, and he raised over half a million dollars for his foundation through his Livestrong campaign. These products are sold under his name with the Livestrong logo, with the profits going to his foundation to support cancer victims. While he had difficulties in 2006, he finished in the top 250 in 2007 and went on to finish in the top 500 in the 2008 Boston Marathon.

Lance Armstrong could be set to repopularize competitive cycling, because he recently announced that he will compete again in 2009 in an amazing sports comeback. Collectible items will also become more valuable, especially if he dominates the 2009 racing season as he did during the last 7 years of his professional life. Some of the most popular items found on eBay include Tour de France posters bearing his autograph, autographed copies of his books and Livestrong gear that he’s personally worn during cycling competitions or signed.

Originally posted 2008-11-14 13:56:47. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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