Raymond Poulidor

Raymond Poulidor, affectionately known as "Pou-Pou," was born on April 15, 1936, and became a prominent figure in the world of professional cycling. Throughout his career, he rode for the Mercier team, establishing himself as a formidable competitor in the sport. His journey in cycling was marked by a fierce rivalry with legends such as Jacques Anquetil and Eddy Merckx, which only heightened his appeal among fans.

Despite his remarkable consistency and dedication, Poulidor earned the nickname "The Eternal Second" due to his near-misses in the Tour de France. He finished in second place three times and claimed third place five times, including his final appearance in the Tour at the age of forty. Notably, he never donned the yellow jersey, despite completing twelve Tours out of fourteen entered.

However, Poulidor's career was not without triumphs. He achieved victory in the 1964 Vuelta a España, marking a significant milestone in his cycling journey. Over the course of his career, he participated in eighteen Grand Tours, finishing in the top ten on fifteen occasions, showcasing his remarkable talent and endurance.