Luis Oca???a seemed doomed to live in the shadow of cycling's greatest ever rider, Eddy Merckx - 'The Cannibal'. Their rivalry defined Oca???a's entire career, yet he was the one rider capable of beating the all-conquering Merckx in his prime. After an impoverished upbringing he flourished at the sport he loved and in 1970 secured his biggest victory on home soil, winning the Vuelta a Espa???a, and confirming his status as a Grand Tour challenger. But it was in the 1971 Tour de France that the battle between Merckx and Oca? ...
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Luis Oca???a seemed doomed to live in the shadow of cycling's greatest ever rider, Eddy Merckx - 'The Cannibal'. Their rivalry defined Oca???a's entire career, yet he was the one rider capable of beating the all-conquering Merckx in his prime. After an impoverished upbringing he flourished at the sport he loved and in 1970 secured his biggest victory on home soil, winning the Vuelta a Espa???a, and confirming his status as a Grand Tour challenger. But it was in the 1971 Tour de France that the battle between Merckx and Oca???a reached its peak when, at the Orci???res-Merlette stage, he inflicted on Merckx the worst defeat he would suffer in a major Tour, with an astonishing 120 kilometre solo breakaway through the Alps. But then came one of most gut-wrenching crashes in Tour de France history when Oca???a fell heavily on a Pyrenean descent, losing his leader's jersey, and with it his best chance of destroying Merckx's reputation of invincibility. In the midst of a torrential downpour, with minimal visibility, rider after rider crashed into the injured rider as he lay prone. The following day Merckx refused to wear the leader's jersey out of respect. It was only when Merckx was missing from the start-line in 1973 that Oca???a became Spain's second ever Tour de France winner. If Merckx had been present, Oca???a's chances of success would have been far slimmer. Further triumphs amassed before his swansong in 1976, but Oca???a's decline in later life reflects the immense struggle he embraced during the height of his career. An enigmatic outsider to both the Spanish and French throughout his career - never truly accepted in either country - he died in mysterious circumstances aged just 48. A fascinating, complicated character both on and off his bike, Oca???a's fierce determination, impetuosity and - some would say - recklessness created some of the most beautiful and gripping episodes in the history of the sport. This is the first ever biography in English of 'the Spanish Merckx' who remains one of the most fascinating Tour de France champions.
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Seller's Description:
New. "Luis Ocana seemed doomed to live in the shadow of cycling's greatest ever rider, Eddy Merckx-'The Cannibal'. Their rivalry defined Ocana's entire career, yet he was the one rider capable of beating the all-conquering Merckx in his prime. After an impoverished upbringing he flourished at the sport he loved and in 1970 secured his biggest victory on home soil, winning the Vuelta a Espana, and confirming his status as a Grand Tour challenger. But it was in the 1971 Tour de France that the battle between Merckx and Ocana reached its peak when, at the Orcieres-Merlette stage, he inflicted on Merckx the worst defeat he would suffer in a major Tour, with an astonishing 120 kilometre solo breakaway through the Alps.
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Very good. Simply Brit – welcome to our online used book store, where affordability meets great quality. Dive into a world of captivating reads without breaking the bank. We take pride in offering a wide selection of used books, from classics to hidden gems, ensuring there's something for every literary palate. All orders are shipped within 24 hours and our lightning fast-delivery within 48 hours coupled with our prompt customer service ensures a smooth journey from ordering to delivery. Discover the joy of reading with us, your trusted source for affordable books that do not compromise on quality.
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Very good. Sun damage to edge of pages Next day dispatch by Royal Mail. International delivery available. 1000's of satisfied customers! Please contact us with any enquiries.
