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By SAMUEL PETREQUIN AP Sports Writer PARIS (AP) Cycling chief Pat McQuaid says more than 500 doping tests will be conducted before and during the Tour de France.

A group of 50 targeted riders, considered as the race favorites or whose biological passport data have raised suspicion, will be under more scrutiny.

McQuaid, who heads the ruling International Cycling Union, spoke Wednesday at a news conference with the head of the French anti-doping agency.

"From the numbers of tests, in my opinion, it will be the most tested event in the history of sports," McQuaid said. "It's enormous." Last year's Tour de France was marred by a string of doping charges. Six riders tested positive during the race or in retroactive checks.

The three-week Tour de France starts on July 4.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-10-09 1128CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list