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How an Unsung Band of American Cyclists Took on the World and Won

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The 7 Eleven Team At The 1986 Tour De France. Team 7 Eleven: How An Unsung Band Of American Cyclists Took On The World And Won

In 1984, a group of unknown American cyclists traveled to the Tour de France, the most prestigious bicycle race in the world. They were not favored to win, but they had one thing that the other teams didn't: a burning desire to prove themselves.

The team was led by director Jim Ochowicz, a former Olympian who had a reputation for being tough but fair. Ochowicz had assembled a team of young, talented riders, including Greg LeMond, Andy Hampsten, and Jeff Pierce. LeMond was the team's star rider, and he was hoping to become the first American to win the Tour de France.

Team 7-Eleven: How an Unsung Band of American Cyclists Took on the World-and Won

by Geoff Drake

4.5 out of 5

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The team started the race slowly, but they gradually began to gain ground. They won several stages, and LeMond moved into contention for the overall lead. However, the race was not without its challenges. LeMond crashed hard in the mountains, and he had to overcome a stomach virus. But he never gave up, and he eventually won the race by a margin of 58 seconds.

The victory was a major upset, and it helped to put American cycling on the map. The 7-Eleven team became a symbol of hope and inspiration for young cyclists all over the world. Their story is a reminder that anything is possible if you have the determination and the will to succeed.

The Team

The 7-Eleven team was a diverse group of riders from all over the United States. They included:

Greg LeMond: The team's star rider and eventual winner of the Tour de France.
Andy Hampsten: A talented climber who won the polka dot jersey for the best climber in the Tour de France.
Jeff Pierce: A strong all-around rider who was a key part of the team's success.
Ron Kiefel: A veteran rider who provided leadership and experience.
Davis Phinney: A young rider who showed great promise.
Thurlow Rogers: A former Olympian who was known for his strength and determination.

The team was directed by Jim Ochowicz, a former Olympian who had a reputation for being tough but fair. Ochowicz was a master tactician, and he was able to get the most out of his riders.

The Race

The 1984 Tour de France was a grueling race, covering over 2,500 miles. The race route included some of the most challenging mountains in Europe, including the Alps and the Pyrenees.

The 7-Eleven team started the race slowly, but they gradually began to gain ground. They won several stages, and LeMond moved into contention for the overall lead. However, the race was not without its challenges. LeMond crashed hard in the mountains, and he had to overcome a stomach virus. But he never gave up, and he eventually won the race by a margin of 58 seconds.

The victory was a major upset, and it helped to put American cycling on the map. The 7-Eleven team became a symbol of hope and inspiration for young cyclists all over the world.

The Legacy

The 7-Eleven team's victory in the 1984 Tour de France was a watershed moment for American cycling. It showed that American riders could compete with the best in the world, and it inspired a new generation of cyclists.

The team's legacy continues to this day. Many of the riders from the team went on to have successful careers in cycling. LeMond went on to win the Tour de France two more times, and Hampsten won the Giro d'Italia. Pierce became a successful directeur sportif, and Phinney became a commentator for NBC Sports.

The 7-Eleven team's story is a reminder that anything is possible if you have the determination and the will to succeed. It is a story that continues to inspire cyclists of all ages.

Team 7-Eleven: How an Unsung Band of American Cyclists Took on the World-and Won

by Geoff Drake

4.5 out of 5