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