A cyclist from the United States overcame a near-fatal accident, won one of the closest Tours and continues to leave his mark on the sport.
professional cycling USA has been marked by great figures, from legends like Greg LeMond to controversial cases like that of Lance Armstrong, who saw his career tarnished by doping. While some cyclists faced the stain of this type of scandal, others like LeMond managed to stand out and earn a place in history for their talent and courage, although their career was not without difficulties.
Without a doubt, Greg LeMond became one of the greatest examples of improvement in this sport, a cyclist who not only managed to shine in the most demanding competitions in the world, but also survived a accident that almost took his life. This is the story of the man who, against all odds, pedaled again after a near-fatal mistake.
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The story of Greg LeMond, the cyclist who defeated death by an unusual mistake
The great American athlete, born in Lakewood, Californiais one of the most emblematic figures in world cycling. His name is registered in the Cycling Hall of Fame of the International Cycling Union (UCI), confirming its place among the 100 best in history. In addition to his exploits on the bicycle, LeMond has demonstrated a strong social commitment, creating with his wife a foundation that helps victims of child abuse.
LeMond was a pioneer in several areas of cycling. His career was one of the most brilliant in the United States, accumulating three victories in the Tour de France and two world road cycling championships. He is remembered for his competitive nature and his ability to shine in critical moments. Among his most notable achievements is the 1989 Tour de France, where he won by just 8 seconds, the closest victory in the history of the competition.
One of the greatest characteristics of this cyclist is his ability to overcome difficulties. In 1987, LeMond suffered a hunting accident in California that left him near death. While he was hunting on his father’s ranch, His brother-in-law, mistaking a noise, accidentally shot him, causing him to receive 60 pellets in the back. This tragic event put his career on hold, but did not stop it. Two years later, he would return to win the prestigious French title.
Despite the severity of the accident, his retirement was not related to the aftermath of the shooting. LeMond explained in interviews that Doping in professional cycling in the 90s was the main reason for his retirement. “The speeds were faster and the cyclists I used to beat now beat me,” he commented in reference to the change in the dynamics of the sport due to the use of prohibited substances by some of his competitors.
After his retirement, LeMond continued to be active in the world of cycling, although in a different way. He founded his own bicycle brand and established himself as an influential commentator, offering expert analysis on the sport’s major competitions. In addition, he has ventured into other businesses, such as gastronomy, and maintains a quiet family life.
Source: Ambito
