And let the season begin....

The professional cycling season has officially begun with the Tour Down Under wrapping up this week, and the Tour of Qatar kicking off. After a long off season, it's nice to have the real competitive sports back in action again (sorry all you football fans). February 17th is the first big challenge for the US teams, the Tour of California. Defending champion Levi Leipheimer is sure to make a good showing in his first event riding for his new team, Astana.

Many of you will remember my previous post introducing you to Team Astana which is largely comprised of ex-Discovery Channel team riders. For those of you following along at home, this will be the team to watch in this seasons Grand Tours.

Stay tuned for more updates as the team progresses through the season. Here are some pics from the Tour Down Under. Check out Astana's great new kits for the new season.