I had struggled with being obese for 16 years. I started gaining weight after leaving the Army in 1992. I got out at 205 pounds. Slowly, I gained 75 pounds and had been fighting to take it off for 15 years. I had tried all the diets, gone to the gym and done the monotonous exercises. My friend introduced me to cycling and mountain biking. I fell in love with it. I had a strong dislike for running due to a shin splint problem I developed while in the Army. In 18 months I had lost 80 pounds and am down to 200. My blood pressure was 140/100 and is now 120/70. My cholesterol was 250, and is now 175. I am off both HBP and high cholesterol medicine. I encourage anyone with a weight problem to look into riding. I love the openness and outdoors. You can change the scenery at anytime by pointing your bike in a different direction. The sport has become a big part in my life, and I can't imagine living without the freedom to get on my bike and ride. As a result, I fell in love with the TDF...thank you Versus!!! Go Lance! The Map My Ride/TDF is a great motivator and I like the idea. Here is to all you cyclist out there.