Throughout the following 200 years, many races and racers came and went leaving unbelievable stories and records to intrigue all for years to come. Here are just a few of the many unforgettable moments in cycling history.

1. THE BIGGEST
CYCLING RACES
I N H I S T O R Y
P R E S E N T E D B Y M A R K D Z I U B A N

2. Cycling History
In 1817, Baron von Drais invented the first version
of what is now called bicycles. After 50 years and
various design changes, bicycles gained the
recognition of freedom and fun to the people.
This led to the first mass-production of bicycles in
1868. On May 31st of that same year, cycling as a
sport officially began.

3. Race Origins
The first race was a 1,312 yard race
near Paris. Within a year, the 1st city-
to-city race was held between Paris
and Rouen. In the U.S., the 1st
recorded race was held in Boston on
May 24, 1878.
By the 1890’s, a new form of racing
emerged: a 6 day, 142 hour, round-
the-clock race. While cycling became
common in continental Europe,
England’s deteriorated road conditions
hindered the popularity of the sport.

4. O V E R T H E L A S T 2 0 0 Y E A R S , M A N Y R A C E S A N D
R A C E R S L E F T U N B E L I E V A B L E S T O R I E S A N D
R E C O R D S T O I N T R I G U E A L L F O R Y E A R S T O
C O M E .
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE MANY
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS IN
CYCLING HISTORY.

5. In 1903, the Tour de France was created. The 21-
day-long quickly became one of the most
popular and prestigious cycling races in the
world. The race has been held 100+ times with
distances ranging up to 2,200 miles. There have
only been 4 cyclists to win the race a total of 5
times.
Biggest Races
4
Founded in 1909, the Giro d’Italy, or La Corsa
Rosa, is a 21 day, 2,000+ mile long race. This
race has the most engaged fans, as weather-
related obstacles, such as freezing rain, seems
to be no issue for the tour enthusiasts.
Dating back to the 1930s, the Tour de Suisse is
the most famous bicycle race in Switzerland. This
race is known as the place to prove you're ready
for the Tour de France. There has been only 1
cyclist to win the race four times.

6. Races Continued...
The Criterium du Dauphine incorporates 8 stages over the
course of 8 days. Benefiting from its location and time of the
year, race organizers often feature a mountain stage route
that is nearly identical to what the Tour de France will trace 1
month later.
While racers and races continue to evolve, the stories,
moments, and successes of those dedicated to the
ultimate physical challenges will remain cherished and
revered.

7. Thank You
F O R L I S T E N I N G
P R E S E N T E D B Y M A R K D Z I U B A N