Winner of the 1935 Tour de France, this Belgian cyclist is remembered for his impressive solo breakaway on the penultimate stage, securing his overall victory.
Romain Maes is etched in the annals of cycling history as the first Belgian to win the Tour de France, a feat he achieved in 1935. This remarkable victory marked the end of a six-year winning streak by French riders, ensuring Maes' name would go down in legend.
Born on August 10, 1912, in Belgium, Maes was the 13th child in his family. He began racing at the tender age of 17 and turned professional in 1933. That same year, he won the Tour de l'Ouest, setting the stage for his future successes.
Maes' Tour de France win in 1935 was a result of his unwavering determination and skill. He wore the yellow jersey from start to finish, a testament to his dominance in the race. This historic victory propelled him to national hero status in Belgium, earning him widespread recognition and adoration.
Maes' career was not without its share of controversies. In 1936, he was initially denied victory in Paris-Roubaix due to a dispute with the judges, who claimed Georges Speicher had crossed the line first. Two years later, Maes made a critical error in Paris-Brussels, failing to realize he had an additional lap to complete, ultimately losing the race to Marcel Kint.
Maes retired from professional cycling in 1944 and went on to open a bar, 'In de Gele Trui' (In The Yellow Jersey), near the North station in Brussels. He spent several years racing on the track with his namesake, Sylvère Maes, to whom he was not related.
Romain Maes' exceptional talent and perseverance left an indelible mark on the world of cycling. His triumph in the 1935 Tour de France paved the way for future Belgian cyclists, inspiring generations to come. Today, Maes remains an iconic figure in the sport, his name synonymous with excellence and determination.
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