On Jul 22, 2007, at 6:32 AM, Aldo Ross wrote:
> Pic of the Day
> 22 July, 2007
>
> Innovations That Changed the Tour de France
>
> 1930 - Introduction of National Teams, Introduction of Publicity
> Caravan, and Introduction of Standardized Bicycles
>
> It was a year of important changes for the Tour de France. In 1930
> Henri Desgrange eliminated trade teams in favor of National Teams.
> The
> bicycles were all painted the same yellow color, with no decals other
> than that of the organizing newspaper "l'Auto". To make up for
> funding
> lost with elimination of bicycle manufacturers, a Caravan Publicitaire
> was organized. Menier Chocolates were the first company to place a
> truck in front of the race.
>
> Though this picture is damaged, it is quite atmospheric. Here we see
> Yellow Jersey André Leducq leading Benoît Faure and Learco Guerra
on
> stage 15 from Nice to Grenoble. Guerra would win the stage and finish
> 2nd overall to Leducq. From "l'Intran-Match" No.202, 22 July 1930.
>
> http://www.wooljersey.com/
>
> (Click on pic for very large image)
>
> Aldo Ross
> Middletown, Ohio
> Etats Unis
In the photo it looks like tiny Benoit has been put at a real disadvantage with his standard issue "l'Auto" bike as to bike fit. Almost looks painful in the photo.
Aldo, in my book you are riding in yellow leading the Tour with the Pic of the Days!!! FantasTIQUE!!!
Chuck Schmidt
South Pasadena, CA USA
http://www.velo-retro.com (reprints, t-shirts & timelines)