Whether you're a diehard cycling fan, new to the sport or just want to learn more about it, we have a can't-miss film for you to watch. Documenting Team Garmin-Slipstream's 2008 debut in France at cycling's biggest event, Nick Davis Productions’ movie, “Blood, Sweat + Gears,” will premiere on the Sundance Channel on Monday, June 29th at 10:30pm ET and will show throughout the month of July.
Starring David Millar, Christian Vande Velde, Jonathan Vaughters, Magnus Backstedt, Mike Friedman and the rest of the argyle armada, the documentary features behind-the-scenes footage of a team racing for all the right reasons. From the scenic European landscapes to the punishing pace of the peloton, Davis captured it all. To give you a quick glimpse, we have the trailer here for a sneak peek. And be sure to check the newly redesigned Team Garmin site and Jake's Twitter updates for more news and views from France this July.
Here are excerpts from the press release, as well as more showtimes:
An original production directed by Nick Davis, Blood, Sweat + Gears follows the journey of an American cycling team seeking to compete in the epic French bicycle race that covers over 3,500 kilometers in 22 grueling days.
Blood, Sweat + Gears chronicles the journey of Team Slipstream-Chipotle, now Team Garmin-Slipstream, a young Colorado-based professional cycling team founded and managed by Jonathan “JV” Vaughters. The team, dedicated to creating the next generation of cycling champions, entered the spotlight when it pioneered the most progressive anti-doping system in all of professional sports. As the film begins, the riders are beginning to train for the 2008 season.
Blood, Sweat + Gears takes us on a fascinating ride as the team travels from the mountains of Colorado; to the first major race of the 2008 season in Doha, Qatar; and on to key competitions throughout the U.S. and Europe, including the Tour of California and Paris-Roubaix. The film also tells the stories of several riders, including Magnus Backstedt, a serene Swede; Mike Friedman, an affable young American rebounding from a life-threatening health incident; the newly-installed team leader, David Millar, who returned to the sport determined to change it after serving a two-year ban; and Christian Vande Velde, who for the first time in his career finds himself as the team leader.
Following the premiere on June 29th at 10:00pm e/p, there are a number of other broadcasts scheduled:
Tuesday June 30th at 5:45pm
Wednesday July 1st at 9:35am and 12:45am
Thursday July 2nd at 11:45pm
Saturday July 4th at 8:00pm
Sunday July 5th at 2:00pm
Monday July 6th at 7:05pm
Thursday July 16th at 11:45pm
Tuesday July 21 at 7:15pm
Saturday July 25 at 2:00pm
