Every stage but one will have featured an American with the overall lead should Armstrong hold on until July 24.

"It's incredibly encouraging," Armstrong said. "Even in the early stages when David (Zabriskie) had the jersey, it's another new name that people can relate to."

Zabriskie, a native of Salt Lake City, took yellow after narrowly beating Armstrong in a time trial on the first day, and kept it until Armstrong took over when the Discovery Channel won the team time trial in the fourth stage.

Germany's Jens Voigt briefly took it after the ninth stage, but Armstrong got it back after Tuesday's 10th stage. Armstrong maintained his overall lead Wednesday and shows no sign of slipping up in his quest for a seventh straight win.

The Texan says it is essential for the growth of cycling in the United States that other American riders take the spotlight. Levi Leipheimer, Floyd Landis and Bobby Julich also have done well.

"Sports live and die by the athletes. It's all about names," Armstrong said. "Cycling needs winners, names, personalities. The more good young guys we can produce the better."

---

MOUNTAIN MADNESS: Potbellied men dance around in inflatable diapers, others carry giant plastic needles, or swill beer as they roast in the sun.

At each mountain stage on the Tour de France, thousands set up camp early, packing the snaking climbs in an array of bright colors. They seem happy to wait hours for the briefest glimpse of the peloton.

Each camp has its own unique style.

American fans wrap themselves in the Stars and Stripes, and hold banners like: "Seven would be Heaven" or "Go Lance."

The Dutch and Belgian contingents wobble around, pink faces marked by sun and alcohol, a national flag in one hand and a giant