I’m sure I’m not the only person who loves a good cycling documentary. My favourite used to be ‘A Sunday In Hell’ (Follows the 1976 Paris Roubaix as Merckx, Moser and De Vlaeminck fight it out over the cobbles of northern France), but now I am not so sure.

Overcoming follows the CSC team as they take on the 2004 Tour De France, concentrating on the riders and their reltionship with Bjarne Riis. Even the casual cyclist can enjoy this film, as it gives a fascinating insight into the communication, bonding, cooperation and compromises that are made to meet each team members expectations and needs.

It has it’s humorous moments, mostly provided by the riders as they strive to make it through each day. There are also more sombre and serious moments, such as when the Basso is dealing with the news that his mother is terminally ill with cancer. We also see Basso’s stage victory, with Armstrong behind him as he crosses the line.

Strange as it was to get a view into the riders personal lives, and the non-traditional training methods of Riis’ team, it certainly make you want to ride your bike, and that’s definitely something you want from a cycling documentary; inspiration.

The DVD can be had for around £20, with Amazon.co.uk currently having it for around £14.

If you fancy seeing it on the big screen, then the MacRobert Art Centre in Stirling will be showing it on August the 30th. Information can be found here. I’m sure other cinemas will also be showing this excellent film.