Part one of the interview the world has been talking about for a week aired last night: Oprah firing off the questions and Lance Armstrong responding with all those yeses.

If you've followed the story at all (and who hasn't) there wasn't much Armstrong had to say that was surprising - except maybe his claim that he last doped in 2005 and that he was clean for his third-place finish at the Tour de France in his comeback year of 2009.

And since everyone from those who idolized Lance - those who wanted to be him - to those who just love the sport had already come to terms with the fact that cycling's most-decorated hero was a cheat, there was little in the interview to be disappointed about.

The feeling that washed over me while watching Oprah and Lance in bits and pieces was sadness. Sadness because Armstrong wasted so many years living a lie that has destroyed too many careers and reputations to count (just how many people did Armstrong sue or threaten to sue for their "lies" against him?). Sadness that such a beloved sport could be so broken that Armstrong said he was never afraid of being caught. Sadness that when he was caught, he didn't have it in him to step up, admit his guilt, and give himself a chance to remain a hero.

If you haven't yet seen the interview, here's a 15-minute excerpt of part one:

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About the Author

Karen Beaudoin is an online editor for Maine Today Media and contributes two blogs to the company's websites.

In the City tells readers what to know if they want to know Portland. Pedal On offers info, events and advice for people who love their bikes more than, well ... almost anything.

Get in touch at kbeaudoin@mainetoday.com

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