Levi Leipheimer (DSC) 3rd – “If I inspire someone, that would be great...”

“It’s unfortunate that I had a 10 second time penalty in stage eight, otherwise I would have been second overall but it’s part of the race. I could have counted seconds that I lost along the way other than that incident so I can’t be disappointed. There’s a difference between second and third but it’s not as big a difference between first and second. I’m happy to be on the podium. _ “It’s been a dream my whole life just to ride the Tour but to win a stage and finish on the podium really fulfills me. Since I was a kid I always watched this race and I dreamed of not only riding it but winning a stage. _ “To be part of the American legacy – joining the others who have stood on the podium at the Tour – is a big honor. I’m proud to be part of that very established company. When I grew up, Greg Lemond was winning the Tour and he inspired me. Then Lance inspired the next generation. If I inspire someone today, that would be great.”