I’m not a cyclist… I like bikes, and I have a nice one, but that’s about it. I haven’t really ridden on my bike this year, but I hope to before the weather turns.

I’ve known and heard about Lance Armstrong for years, of course.  He’s a power.  He’s a machine.  He’s a master on the bike, and from the little I’ve heard, I think he’s a gentleman and a cool guy.  (of course he’s cool, he lives in Austin, where being cool is a prerequisite)

I know he’s heavily involved in giving, giving back, charity, and all-things-to-end-cancer.

Yesterday I was amazed to read the headlines about him being accussed of doping.  More, I was amazed that they were going to strip his 7 titles, and today’s headline: “banned for life, career vacated.”

Sad, I thought.  Amazing.  I wanted to call a cyclist friend and ask him what he thought of it.

Today I read Lance’s official statement.  This is a case study in how to react to crisis.  This is the type of message I want to read from politicians and other leaders.  This is one of the most classy responses I’ve ever seen, and I love the maturity and message:

Lance Armstong’s Statement of August 23, 2012

I don’t know the history. I don’t know about the other dopers and the losers and the accuser and the USADA and Travis Tygart.

But Lance’s response, and his message, and his focus, resonate.

I’m a fan… hopefully not misplacing my trust, but I’m converted.