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12 July on this day

José Manuel Fuente riding solo on the 15th stage of Tour de Frsnce 1971

12-13 July 1971 José Manuel Fuente’s back to back stage victories in the Pyrenees

Although José Manuel Fuente considered one of the greatest climbers of all time, it might be a vit surprising, that he won only two stages at Tour de France. Both of them in 1971. This was Fuentes’s very first Tour de France, and he showed a cery good form, also an attack-friendly behaviour. In the 11th stage, when Luis Ocaña finished first on the top of Orcieres-Merlette and took over the lead, Fuente’s move motivated the other Spaniard to attack. Sadly, Ocaña was the protagonist also of the story of Stage 14, because this was the day, when he crashed badly downhill on Col de Menté and had to abandon the race. The 214,5 km… Read More »12-13 July 1971 José Manuel Fuente’s back to back stage victories in the Pyrenees

Luis Ocaña after his crash on Col de Menté at Tour de France 1971

12 July 1971 – Luis Ocana’s crash on Col de Menté

Luis Ocaña was considered one of the favourites of Tour de France 1971. after his stellar performance on Orciere-Merlette in the 11. stage he became THE favorite of the race. Ocaña led the general classification with more than 8 minutes ahead of Joop Zoetemelk, while defending champion Eddy Merckx rode more than 9 minutes behind. The 14th stage was the first day in the Pyrenees. Three major ascents, Port d’Aspet, Col de Menté and Col du Portillion were in the program of the day.José Manuel Fuente escaped from the breakaway group while climbing the Port d’Aspet. Meanwhile in the group of the favourites Eddy Merckx attacked several times unsuccesfully.The weather stsrted worsening on the Col… Read More »12 July 1971 – Luis Ocana’s crash on Col de Menté