In a recent “Hot Corner” column (July 27), Kalle Oakes referred to Lance Armstrong as “the greatest American since Lindsay Lohan.”

Let’s compare the two.

Armstrong overcame testicular cancer that spread to his lungs and brain. After overcoming a 3 percent chance of survival, Lance went on to win seven Tour de France championships, three AP Male Athlete of the Year honors, and three ESPN Best Male Athlete awards – all while raising $50 million for cancer research. According to Mr. Oakes, Lindsay Lohan’s accomplishments, such as starring in the blockbuster bust “Herbie: Fully Loaded” and dating Aaron Carter, are comparable.

With everything that has been wrong in the world of sports (steroids, NHL labor problems, Kenny Rogers’ violent outbursts), Lance Armstrong is the archetype of what is good in sports and why we love them. We should hang on to his every word, and cling to his yellow jersey until he rides away from the sport for good.

You can bet that Lance will not make a Michael Jordan-like comeback, for, unlike Jordan, he puts his sport above himself. That was displayed in Armstrong’s victory speech after his seventh and final Tour de France win, when he said in French, “Long live the Tour,” and added in English, “forever.”

Annoyed by the media coverage of the most enlightening inspiration, most admirable sportsmanship and greatest athlete of our era, Mr. Oakes stated “One, you’re not alone. Two, I’m with you.” – Mr. Oakes, we are not with you at all.

Nate Guerette, Auburn

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