The fastest American cyclist may not be who you think it is.

It is not Lance Armstrong.

Instead it is the son of an orthopedist from Wenatchee, Wash. Tyler Farrar, a 25-year-old who races for the American Garmin-Slipstream team, may be the fastest American ever to enter the race according to cycling experts.

If all goes to plan he'll be the first American in 20 years to conquer one of the Tour's most daunting challenges: beating the top European riders in a field sprint.

Jim Miller, head of athletics for US Cycling speaks for all American cycling fans, "It would be huge."

In May at the Giro d’Italia, a race that is every bit as grueling as the Tour de France, Farrar earned two podium finishes against the best sprinters in the world.

Farrar has come a long way, for just a few months ago experts wondered if he'd even make the team. Now there's no question he belongs.

The Tour de France beings tomorrow and runs from 21 days.

Analysis: The Wall Street Journal is not the first name in sports. It is a paper with a great reputation for excellent reporting. Reed Albergotti gives a good insight to the Tour de France on the day before the event begins. He showcases America's best hope Tyler Farrar.