There once was a Major who stole much of Europe's hearts and adoration. In a time of peace he marched relentlessly across the continent conquering many of the powerful nations, stealing incredible victories with audacious attacks and moves. The bastion of the French fell at times and even the Flandriens could not halt his charge. Even the World fell beneath his relentless drive and passion. After a devastating campaign stretching eight and a half years he gave his life tackling the last great battle, his only remaining challenge.

Tom Simpson, also known as the Major, once conquered the world of cycling. He took jerseys, monuments and rainbows across his brilliant yet tragic career. He was more than just the cyclist, capturing the love of a whole continent with his charm and wit. Ever since '67 the UK has been looking for that next legend. Millar surpassed him in Grand Tour results, but his reclusive, quiet nature meant he never matched the presence of the Major. Boardman was always under pressure to go beyond his ability and tackle the big stage races. The other Millar nearly lost everything trying to match the great man's legacy. The UK has come closer more recently with Wiggins, and closer than perhaps wanted following his doping conviction. Many will say Mark Cavendish is that next man. He dominated the sprint for 4 full, almost unchallenged years. His bubbly, and emotional, character helped mold him into a superstar on the continent. It's close to the Major, but the Missile is limited to the flat lands.

Here we are around 46 years later and there is excitement which has not been seen in a very long time. A young Brit has been quietly ripping up all the records he can find at the amateur level. This young man has won 76% of the races he has entered in 2012. It doesn't matter what race it is, uphill, sprint, time trial, cobbles the kid has dominated them all. Following the troubles recently felt in the UK cycling scene his decision to come to France to race may have been the best decision he could have ever made.

Tom Lasnik recently signed for Roubaix-Lille Metropole, and French Continental level team based out of the North-East of France. The experts of cycling, as well as the press, have hotly tipped the young lad to be the next huge thing in cycling. Inevitably the connections were made, would this be the next Simpson? The similarities are uncanny and many cannot help but get excited. Le Nouvelle Major, as he is already known, might have some huge cleats to fill but there is no reason he cannot. The fall of the empire might be happening, but from the ashes "Roule Britannia"!

TheManxMissile wrote:
The Criterium International is pending acceptance.

TheManxMissile wrote:
@they_hoyle
That was my first thought, but when i went to check it was La... Hope a native french speaker can clear that one up

TheManxMissile wrote:
17th January 2013

"I Don't Think We're in Kansas Anymore"

Tom Lasnik[/i]