In the heart of Athens, Georgia, a small-town bike shop owner, Tom, stumbles upon a group of riders who would soon become cycling legends. This is the story of how Greg LeMond, Johan Lammerts, and Vincent Barteau, three world-class cyclists, found themselves in the American South, and the impact they had on a small college town. The year was 1987, and the Tour de France was in its 40th year. LeMond, the first American to win the Tour de France, was on a journey of recovery after a shooting incident and a serious appendectomy. He was invited to Athens by Gene Dixon, the owner of a local bike shop, to participate in a series of races and clinics. The riders were drawn to Athens by the promise of a big-name event and the chance to train in a new environment. The town, known for its music scene and cycling culture, offered a refreshing anonymity for the famous athletes. The riders were hosted by Lee Cain, who went out of his way to ensure their comfort and enjoyment. They were joined by Larue Manus, an 18-year-old junior cyclist who had a memorable experience racing alongside his heroes. The races themselves were a success, despite some challenges, and the riders left Athens with fond memories and a sense of community. The event brought a unique blend of sports, music, and culture together, and the impact of the riders' visit lingered in the memories of the town for years to come.
