1955 - Louison Bobet on Mont Ventoux

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In the 1955 Tour de France, Louison Bobet's ride over Mont Ventoux was a pivotal moment in his third consecutive victory. This stage, from Marseille to Avignon, featured the grueling 21 km climb of Mont Ventoux, a notorious challenge in cycling. Despite the intense heat, Bobet managed to catch and pass Ferdi Kübler, who had set a blistering pace initially but began to falter near the summit. Bobet's strategy was to maintain a steady pace, which allowed him to capitalize on Kübler's exhaustion. He crossed the summit and descended to Avignon, finishing nearly six minutes ahead of the race leader, Antonin Rolland, and moving into second place overall. Bobet's performance on Mont Ventoux showcased his endurance and tactical prowess. Despite struggling with injuries and fatigue, he managed to accelerate past his competitors, securing a crucial time gain. This stage win was instrumental in his eventual capture of the Yellow Jersey, as he moved into the lead during the Pyrenees stages. Bobet's victory cemented his legacy as one of the greatest cyclists of his era, marking his third consecutive Tour de France win. His ability to overcome physical challenges and outmaneuver opponents solidified his reputation as a masterful rider.