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British Cycling Icon Barry Hoban Passes Away at 85
The world of cycling mourns the loss of Barry Hoban, a celebrated British cycling icon and eight-time Tour de France stage winner. A pioneer in UK cycling throughout the 1960s and 70s, Hoban, who died at the age of 85, was instrumental in paving the way for future generations of cyclists, including renowned riders like Mark Cavendish and Geraint Thomas. His contributions to the sport have solidified his place as a legend.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Wakefield, Yorkshire, in 1940, Barry Hoban first honed his skills with the local Calder Clarion cycling club as a sprinter. He later discovered a natural talent for climbing, which shaped his successful professional trajectory. Hoban transitioned to professional cycling in the 1960s, embarking on a distinguished career that spanned 19 years in the peloton.
Triumph at Gent-Wevelgem
A hallmark of Hoban’s impressive career was his historic victory at the prestigious Gent-Wevelgem race in 1974. He remains the only British male rider to have conquered this arduous Belgian classic, famed for its challenging cobbled sections and steep climbs. Britain’s Lizzie Deignan later achieved victory in the inaugural women’s edition of Gent-Wevelgem in 2012.
Tour de France Records and Achievements
Barry Hoban etched his name in Tour de France history with multiple accomplishments. Until Mark Cavendish surpassed his record in 2009, Hoban held the distinction of being the British rider with the most Tour de France finishes. He completed an impressive 11 out of the 12 Tours he entered, another British record he maintained until recently when Geraint Thomas completed his 12th tour last year. Furthermore, the Yorkshireman holds the honor of being the first British cyclist to win a Tour de France mountain stage and the first to secure two consecutive stage victories.
Homage to Tom Simpson
Deeply saddened by the loss of his close friend Tom Simpson, Hoban dedicated his first Tour de France stage win in 1967 as a tribute to Britain’s first world champion cyclist, who tragically collapsed and died on Mont Ventoux. In emotionally charged scenes, Hoban was granted the poignant honor of completing the stage as a solo rider, paying homage to Simpson the day after his untimely death.
Teams and Family
Throughout the majority of his professional years, Hoban competed for the esteemed Mercier-BP-Hutchinson team, sharing camaraderie with fellow cycling greats Cyrille Guimard and Raymond Poulidor. Barry Hoban is survived by his wife Helen, his daughter Daniella, and step-daughters Jane and Joanne Simpson.