Greg LeMond Receives Congressional Gold Medal: A Tribute to an American Cycling Legend
In a momentous ceremony at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday morning, Greg LeMond, a three-time winner of the Tour de France, was honored with the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal. This accolade recognizes not just his remarkable achievements in cycling but also his significant impact on the sport as the first American to win the Tour de France in 1986.
Reflecting on the honor, LeMond expressed his heartfelt gratitude: "The honor is more than I ever expected, and I accept it with deep gratitude and a profound sense of humility." He recounted how his journey began as a 14-year-old in 1976 when he was introduced to cycling after witnessing a race near his home. "After winning my first race, I became passionately obsessed with cycling. As an American, I believed that with hard work, anything was possible."
During his cycling career in Europe, LeMond became affectionately known as "The American." He embraced this nickname with pride, recalling a humorous suggestion from his parents to lean into the persona by wearing a cowboy hat and boots. "I didn’t go quite that far," he joked, "but I did grow up in Reno, Nevada, and rode horses before I rode a bike. I was just a blonde-haired, blue-eyed kid, and for some reason, that resonated with people. Many Europeans saw me as a reminder of what the U.S. has meant to Europe at critical times: an ally, a liberator, and a friend."
LeMond also shared his thoughts on the significance of being an American athlete competing in a European-dominated sport. "Being an American, especially abroad, carries a legacy of sacrifice, courage, and showing up when it matters most," he said. "I am honored beyond words to receive this Congressional Gold Medal. I stand here knowing this honor isn’t mine alone. It belongs to every teammate, supporter, family member, and all the Americans whose courage and sacrifice made my life and career possible. I am proud to be an American, and I thank you all from the bottom of my heart."
LeMond’s journey was not without challenges. Following a hunting accident in 1987, he missed the next two Tour de France events after his initial victory. However, he made a triumphant return in 1989, clinching back-to-back titles and solidifying his legacy in the sport.
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