June 8, 1956: Charly Gaul's Snowy Triumph

Joby Ingram-Dodd

08 Jun 2025 — 1 min read

The 1956 Giro d'Italia witnessed one of cycling's most epic rides when Luxembourg's Charly Gaul conquered Monte Bondone in apocalyptic conditions. As temperatures plummeted and snow blanketed the mountain, Gaul attacked solo with 88km to go. Riding through a blizzard in short sleeves, 'The Angel of the Mountains' gained nearly 8 minutes on his rivals. Only 43 riders finished the stage, with many abandoning from hypothermia. Gaul's superhuman effort vaulted him into the pink jersey, securing his first Grand Tour victory.

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Last Week in Cycling - 24th November

Maximising Cycling Performance Through Polarised Training

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On this day (October 27th 1996) - Breaking the Hour