Ep 21. Slaying The Badger

In the world of professional cycling, it's not uncommon for teammates to turn against each other in order to achieve individual glory. The rivalry between American Greg LeMond and Frenchman Bernard Hinault in the 1985 Tour de France was no exception. However, what set their feud apart was the sheer intensity of their competition, and the lengths to which each rider was willing to go in order to come out on top.

"Slaying The Badger," the 21st episode of season two of ESPN's 30 for 30 series, tells the story of this epic showdown, which would decide the fate of the 1985 Tour de France. The episode takes its title from Hinault's nickname: "The Badger," a reference to his tenacity and his scrappy, unyielding style of riding. LeMond, on the other hand, was a newcomer to the sport, known for his speed and his raw talent.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the history of the Tour de France and the sport of cycling in general. Then, it delves into the story of Hinault and LeMond, as they square off in the 1985 race. The two men had been teammates on the same cycling team the previous year, but they had already begun to develop a rivalry by the time the 1985 race rolled around.

As the episode progresses, viewers are treated to a detailed look at the various stages of the 1985 Tour de France, as well as the behind-the-scenes drama and political maneuvering that went on between the two riders and their respective teams. There are interviews with former teammates, coaches, and other insiders, who shed light on the various tactics and strategies employed by LeMond and Hinault.

The episode also covers some of the controversies that arose during the race, including accusations of cheating and collusion between the two riders. Ultimately, though, it comes down to the final mountain stage of the race, in which LeMond and Hinault go head-to-head in a brutal battle for the coveted yellow jersey.

Along the way, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the French countryside, as well as the grueling terrain that the cyclists had to navigate. The camera work is top-notch, and the soundtrack is appropriately epic, heightening the tension and drama of the race.

By the end of the episode, viewers will have gained an appreciation for the sheer athleticism and endurance required of professional cyclists, as well as the cutthroat nature of the sport itself. They'll also come away with a newfound respect for both LeMond and Hinault, who pushed themselves to the absolute limit in pursuit of victory.

Overall, "Slaying The Badger" is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in cycling or sports in general. With its highly detailed storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and intense focus on the rivalry between two top riders, it stands as one of the standout episodes of the 30 for 30 series. Whether you're a seasoned fan of the sport or a casual viewer, there's something here for everyone to enjoy.