The competitive nature of Australian athletes on the world's sporting
stage is legendary. Their commitment, talent and sportsmanship are
internationally renowned and on the gruelling roads of the Tour de
France, the Australian cyclists are no different.
The Tour de
France made its debut in 1903 and over 100 years and 93 editions later,
the race has become the most prestigious and historic cycling event in
the world with the largest and most coveted prize money on offer in its
sport.
Australians have a long history on the Tour de France,
dating back to 1914 when the first Australian and English speaking
cyclists, Duncan Don' Kirkham and Iddo Snowy' Munro, made their Tour
debut.
Nearly 70 years later modern-day pioneer, Phil
Anderson made his first Tour appearance in 1981 and became the first
non-European to wear the leaders yellow jersey, further breaking down
the cultural barriers and paving the way for future Australian cyclists
in Europe.
Australians have made a great impact on Europe's
pro-circuit, winning numerous Tour stages and wearing the various
coloured jerseys. However, an Australian has yet to walk away from the
three week race with the famous winner's yellow jersey.
Aussie Onslaught: 25 Years of Le Tour' celebrates the Australian cyclists and their success on Tour since the early 1980s.
Featuring: Phil Anderson / Neil Stephens / Stuart O'Grady / Bradley McGee / Baden Cooke / Robbie McEwen