Let’s embark on a nostalgic journey through the golden years of the Tour de France, a time when cyclists’ endurance was tested in truly unimaginable ways. In this scenario of intense physical challenges, only the fittest athletes on the planet dared to compete and triumph. What makes the following revelation even more extraordinary is the understanding that until the 1960s, it was common to witness the fearless competitors of this iconic cycling race enjoying a sip of alcohol while in full action.
This wasn’t just a simple act to seek relief from pain; for these intrepid cyclists, alcohol represented a true performance enhancer. In a setting where stimulants were strictly prohibited, alcohol shared that status, being considered a substance that could provide the much-desired extra boost.
Did competitors share cigarettes?
Yes, it’s true! In the lively 1920s, a peculiar practice was common among cyclists: sharing cigarettes while traversing dusty roads. It may seem surprising today, but the belief of the time suggested that smoking would help “open up the lungs” before imposing climbs, providing a unique strategic advantage.
These quirks from the past not only add a fascinating layer to the history of the Tour de France but also illustrate the radical evolution that the sport has witnessed over the decades. Today, elite cycling is governed by strict rules, distancing itself from the peculiar practices that were once part of the colorful Tour scene. However, revisiting these past feats takes us to appreciate the fearless spirit of those road pioneers whose pedaling shaped the unique narrative of the sport we cherish so much.