On November 20th, 1902, a journalist under pressure came up with an idea that saved his job and changed the cycling history. Bicycle races were a popular sporting event in the early 1900s, and newspapers often reported on competitions in the world of biking. One such French newspaper, L’Auto, was struggling due to competition in reporting. L’Auto’s editor, Henri Desgrange, called an emergency meeting with his staff, which included a young journalist named Geo Lefevre. In a moment of courage and inspiration, Geo volunteered the idea for a multi-day bike race around France that their paper alone could feature. This bold move led to the birth of the Tour de France, a race that would become the most prestigious and challenging event in the history of cycling. 

Fun Facts: 

• The idea for the Tour de France was born in late November 1902, but the first official race was in July of 1903. 
• The race lasted 19 days and had about 80 entrants who were likely enticed by the adventure and the grand prize offering of 12,000 francs!
• The race was set in 5 stages, but most entrants dropped out after the first stage, unable to cope with the physical demands of the race. Many were not prepared for the extreme physical exertion that such a race required. By the 4th stage, only 24 riders remained, a testament to the grueling nature of the Tour de France. The winner’s name was Maurice Garin. 
• The editor of “L’Auto,” Henri Desgrange, was a biker himself who held records. He became known as the “father of the Tour” and is still known as the man responsible for one of the most well-known and celebrated sporting events in history. 
• Geo Lefevre’s mission was accomplished- not only did he suggest an innovative idea in biking, but the impact of the first Tour de France was monumental. Publications for L’Auto doubled, a clear sign of the race’s popularity and the beginning of a new era in sports reporting!