Frosty said:His strength seemed to return when he disappeared off into the mountains with someone (Carmichael?)
I believe that person was Bob Roll.
Dr. Maserati said:I would liken it to a racecar - Carmichael was the mechanic, Ferrari the engineer.
Armstrong was working with Ferrari from 96, visiting him in Ferrara and being tested there.
Ferrari is a hematologist with a good understanding of the sport.
Carmichael was a former Pro, and a coach who had some knowledge of doping and was not scared to inject people.
So they complemented each other.
I think you're giving Carmichael too much credit. I believe he was an old friend/co-conspirator from the (less sophisticated) early days. He was put forth as the official coach out of loyalty - as well as the fact, not incidental, that Armstrong is (purportedly) a big investor in Carmichael Training Systems. I suspect the reality is that Carmichael had little-to-nothing to do with Armstrong's training during the Tour wins (other than flunky type duties).