Troubles Follow Bush

In a separate story, Herman writes about a question for the ages: Whether Bush is the most physically fit president in U.S. history.

" 'That's up for pundits and historians' to decide, Bush said when asked whether he wants to claim the title as fittest president. . . .

"Americans want their president in shape and 'in a position to make good, crisp decisions,' Bush said.

" 'And part of my being is to be outside exercising. So I'm mindful of what goes on around me. On the other hand, I'm also mindful that I've got a life to live and will do so,' he said."

Bill Adair writes in the St. Petersburg Times: "Standing on the driveway outside his home, President Bush explains the rules for people who go mountain biking with him.

"It will be a vigorous workout. It is not a race. And no one, the president says with a smile, is allowed to pass him."

Adair also publishes some excerpts from the ride.

Sal Ruibal writes for USA Today that at the end of the ride, Bush "pulled out a cardboard box and passed out Peloton One bike socks to the participants, then posed with each rider for the official White House photographer.

"In keeping with his pet name habit, he referred to himself as 'Bike Guy.' It is clearly an identification that has great meaning for him.

" 'For me, this is a chance to feel like I'm outside the bubble,' he said. 'Whether it be here in Crawford, or Quantico, where we ride, or at Camp David or at Beltsville, Md. -- I get the sense of freedom.' "

Sheehan, No; Armstrong, Yes

Nedra Pickler writes for the Associated Press that Bush has invited seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong to go biking with him in Crawford next weekend.

Note to Readers

Many of you very kindly noticed that I didn't write my column last week. I had an oddly unshakable case of the flu. I'll try to play catch-up a bit today and tomorrow.