Title
The First Tour De France: Sixty Cyclists And Nineteen Days Of Daring On The Road To Paris
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From its inception, the 1903 Tour de France was a colorful affair. Full of adventure, mishaps and audacious attempts at cheating, it was a race to be remembered.Cyclists of the time weren't enthusiastic about participating in this 'heroic' race on roads more suited to hooves than wheels, with bikes weighing up to thirtyfive pounds, on a single fixed gear, for three full weeks. Assembling enough riders for the race meant paying unemployed amateurs from the suburbs of Paris, including a butcher, a chimney sweep and a circus acrobat. From Maurice 'The White Bulldog' Garin, an Italianborn Frenchman whose parents were said to have swapped him for a round of cheese in order to smuggle him into France as a fourteenyearold, to Hippolyte Aucouturier, who looked like a villain from a Buster Keaton movie with his jersey of horizontal stripes and handlebar moustache, the cyclists were a remarkable bunch.Starting in the Parisian suburb of Montgeron, the route took the intrepid cyclists through Lyon, over the hills to Marseille, then on to Toulouse, Bordeaux, and Nantes, ending with great fanfare at the Parc des Princes in Paris. There was no indication that this ramshackle cycling pack would draw crowds to throng France's rutted roads and cheer the first Tour heroes. But they did; and all thanks to a marketing ruse, cycling would never be the same again.
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- Q: How many pages does the book have? A: The book has three hundred eighty-four pages. It's a substantial read that delves into the history of the Tour de France.
- Q: What is the binding type of this book? A: The binding type is hardcover. This provides durability and a premium feel, making it suitable for display.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The dimensions are five point seventy-five inches in length, one point twenty-six inches in width, and eight point five inches in height. These dimensions make it easy to handle.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Peter Cossins. He is known for his detailed storytelling and extensive knowledge of cycling history.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: This book belongs to the cycling and sports history genres. It offers insights into the early days of the Tour de France.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in cycling? A: Yes, the book is suitable for beginners in cycling. It provides a fascinating overview of the Tour de France's origins, making it accessible to all.
- Q: Can I read this book if I am not a cycling enthusiast? A: Yes, you can read this book even if you're not a cycling enthusiast. It's filled with engaging stories and historical context that appeal to general readers.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for children? A: Yes, the book is appropriate for older children. It contains historical content that can inspire young readers interested in sports and adventure.
- Q: How should I store the book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book upright on a shelf to keep it in good condition. Avoid placing heavy items on top of it to prevent damage.
- Q: What is the best way to clean the book? A: The best way to clean the book is to use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe the cover. Avoid using liquids that could damage the pages.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller for a return or replacement. Most retailers have clear policies for handling such issues.
- Q: Are there any illustrations in this book? A: No, the book does not contain illustrations. It focuses on detailed narratives and historical accounts of the Tour de France.
- Q: What makes this book a good choice for cycling fans? A: This book is a good choice for cycling fans because it provides an in-depth look at the origins of the Tour de France, highlighting memorable cyclists and events.
- Q: Is this book part of a series? A: No, this book is not part of a series. It stands alone as a comprehensive exploration of the first Tour de France.
- Q: Can this book be a gift for a cycling friend? A: Yes, this book makes an excellent gift for a cycling friend. Its engaging narrative and historical detail are sure to be appreciated.
- Q: What age group is this book intended for? A: The book is intended for readers aged twelve and up. Its engaging content is suitable for teens and adults alike.