WASHINGTON, DC-- Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), founder and co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Bike Caucus, introduced a resolution last night congratulating Lance Armstrong and the entire Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team on their historic victory in the 2005 Tour de France.  The resolution also recognizes the outstanding career of Lance Armstrong who has announced his intentions to retire following the completion of tour.
 
“This resolution officially honors and congratulates Lance Armstrong upon his retirement from professional cycling following his 7th successive victory of the Tour de France,” Blumenauer said.  “Aside from his many victories as a racer, Lance has become a household name, vital to the promotion of cycling as a sport.  These athletic accomplishments are even more dramatic considering his successful battle against widespread cancer. Lance has become a role model to cancer patients and his efforts through the Lance Armstrong Foundation have helped to advance cancer research, diagnosis, treatment, and after-treatment services.”
 
The resolution, H. Res. 381, was introduced with 27 bipartisan co-sponsors including the top ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, James Oberstar (D – Minn.).

"Congratulations to Lance Armstrong on his record-shattering seventh Tour de France victory,” said Judith McHale, President and Chief Executive Officer of Discovery Communications, Inc.  “Today’s win is the crowning achievement in an illustrious career that has exemplified strength, courage and excellence.  It is an honor for the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Lance's incredible history with this resolution.  We also want to congratulate the other members of the Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team, whose perseverance and commitment to teamwork made this Tour especially memorable.  We are proud to sponsor this team of high-quality athletes and look forward to their many successes in the years to come."
 
Blumenauer added, “This resolution is a deserving tribute to Lance Armstrong and his Tour de France victory, commitment to cancer awareness and survivorship, and promotion of bicycling.”

The Congressional Bike Caucus, which Blumenauer co founded, now has over 100 members representing both political parties.  His “Conserve by Bicycle” amendment was incorporated into the Energy Policy Act (H.R. 6) passed by the House of Representatives earlier this year.  He also introduced the Bike Commuter Act (H.R. 807) in February to change the Transportation Fringe Benefit of the tax code to include bicycle commuters.