SHERYL CROW - CROW WANTS ARMSTRONG TO TOUR WITH HER

SHERYL CROW is demanding her cyclist beau LANCE ARMSTRONG remain by her side on her next tour, after her committed support for him during the TOUR DE FRANCE.

Armstrong is marching toward a record sixth straight title in cycling's showcase race - and his rock star girlfriend has been following him on his trek across the French countryside.

She says, "I'm going to drag him on the road with me. It's the nicest thing to be in a support situation and not to be competing. For me, it's a real kick."

ALL I WANNA DO singer Crow feels excited and privileged to be part of the cycling world, which she feels does not often open its doors to women.

She adds, "I have to say I think it's amazing that Lance has included me because it's a very male sport. The women don't come out. It's really kind and generous to include me in all this."

Armstrong is second in the overall standings, 22 seconds behind surprise leader THOMAS VOECKLER of France. The three-week race ends at the Champs Elysees in Paris on Sunday (25JUL04).