Australian track cyclist who won Olympic and World Championship gold medals in the 1980s and 1990s, known for his dominance in the pursuit and team pursuit events.
Dean Woods is renowned for his exceptional track cycling skills, which earned him multiple Olympic and Commonwealth Games medals. As a pioneering Australian cyclist, he made a significant impact on the sport, inspiring generations to come.
Born on June 22, 1966, in Wangaratta, Victoria, Woods began his cycling journey at a young age. He was awarded the Order of Australia medal in 1985 for his service to cycling, and later became an Australian Institute of Sport scholarship holder.
Woods' most notable achievements include winning the gold medal in the 4000m team pursuit at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, alongside teammates Michael Grenda, Kevin Nichols, and Michael Turtur. This victory was all the more remarkable, as the Australian team, dubbed "Charlie's Angels," defeated the United States despite riding conventional bikes against the Americans' high-tech machines.
Woods also won silver in the 4000m individual pursuit at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, and bronze in the team pursuit at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Additionally, he secured gold in the individual pursuit event at the 1986 Commonwealth Games.
Woods' achievements extended beyond his athletic career. He established and worked at his own bicycle shop, Dean Woods Direct, in Wangaratta, before eventually selling it. His contributions to the sport of cycling inspired numerous Australians to take up the sport, earning him a revered place in Australian cycling history.
Woods passed away on March 3, 2022, at the age of 55, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of cyclists.
Woods was awarded the Order of Australia medal in 1985 for his service to cycling.
Woods' success was built on his strong team spirit and determination. He believed in the importance of teamwork and perseverance, often citing the close bond among his teammates as a key factor in their Olympic victories.
Woods was a devoted family man and an advocate for cancer research, having bravely battled the disease before his passing in 2022.
Through his remarkable achievements and inspiring story, Dean Woods has left an indelible mark on the world of cycling, cementing his place as one of Australia's most celebrated athletes.
53 Years Old
Australian cyclist who won numerous titles, including Paris-Roubaix and Olympic medals, known for his versatility and endurance on the road and track.
50 Years Old
Australian cyclist and coach who won numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, and later became a successful coach, leading teams to multiple Tour de France victories.
48 Years Old
Australian professional road racing cyclist who won the green jersey at the 2003 Tour de France, known for his sprinting abilities and stage wins.
49 Years Old
Australian rugby league player who played for the Canberra Raiders and represented Queensland in the State of Origin series, known for his speed and agility on the field.
54 Years Old
Australian professional road cyclist, known for his sprinting ability and winning multiple stages in the Tour de France
44 Years Old
Australian professional road racing cyclist, known for his exceptional lead-out skills, helping teammates win numerous stages in Grand Tours.
46 Years Old
Australian professional road racing cyclist, won several stages in Grand Tours, including the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia.
49 Years Old
First Australian to win the Tour de France, claiming the title in 2011 and holding it for several years. Known for his impressive endurance and tactical racing style.
