Race for the golden.....

So here we are, Beijing 2008. Every 4 years the worlds best change their lycra and allegiances and race for their beloved country for the right to win gold.
Italy with Bettini is the defending champ, and Spain has been touted as the strongest team. and on paper yes i think we can all agree that a star studded team is what the Spanish have brought, but will the old "team of champions" or "a champion team" rule? or will the mighty $ still make a presence and we'll see team mates help each other? I mean how do the Swiss stand a chance in this race? they have 1 representative Fabian, but with 15 of his CSC mates on the road who's to say that they will not work together? and will the Schleck brothers really talk to their only other team mate Kirchen?

This interesting posturing is only back play to the real deal, who will win the race and the right to wear a splash of gold somewhere (or everywhere) on their kit for the next 4 years? I mean Bettini made a meal of it being a golden rainbow billboard for the last 2 years, but I'm sure whoever wins we'll see some horrific gold boots/ helmet/ plumage adorned for the next 4 years just so we remember they are the Beijing master. Let the games begin.