1905 - The First Climb

About

The introduction of the Ballon d'Alsace in the 1905 Tour de France marked a pivotal moment in the race's history by incorporating the first major mountain climb. This decision was made to enhance the race's excitement and challenge. René Pottier became the first cyclist to conquer this climb, earning him a notable place in cycling history. The Ballon d'Alsace, located in the Vosges mountains, presented a significant ascent with a steep gradient, requiring riders to adapt their strategies. The inclusion of the Ballon d'Alsace set the stage for future mountain stages, which would become a defining feature of the Tour de France. It paved the way for more challenging climbs in the Pyrenees and Alps, transforming the race into the grueling endurance test it is today. The 1905 Tour also introduced other innovations, such as shorter stages and daylight racing, to reduce cheating and improve supervision. These changes contributed to the race's longevity and its status as a premier cycling event.