Echternach, Luxembourg 01.09.2024
Source: http://www.lacharlygaul.lu/ and https://www.facebook.com/acccontern/
The CYCLING Cyclotourismo La CHARLY GAUL Luxembourg is a popular cycling event with a rich history that honors one of Luxembourg’s most celebrated athletes, Charly Gaul.
Who was Charly Gaul?
Before delving into the event’s history, it’s essential to understand the man it is named after. Charly Gaul (1932-2005) was a professional cyclist from Luxembourg known for his incredible climbing ability, which earned him the nickname “The Angel of the Mountains.” His prowess was particularly evident in cold, wet weather, which suited his racing style.
He was a major figure in cycling during the 1950s, with his most significant victories including:
- Tour de France: Overall winner in 1958, with multiple stage wins and two “King of the Mountains” titles.
- Giro d’Italia: Overall winner in 1956 and 1959.
Gaul was also known for his withdrawn and reclusive nature later in life, but his cycling legacy remains a source of national pride in Luxembourg.
History of the Event
The “La Charly Gaul” cyclosportive was created by the ACC Contern cycling club to honor Charly Gaul and his contributions to the sport. Given his reputation as a climber, it was a natural fit for the event to be characterized by challenging climbs.
The event, which began in 1990, was initially a professional-level uphill time trial. However, it was soon decided to open the event to a wider range of participants, transforming it into a “cyclosportive” or “Gran Fondo.” This format allows hundreds of amateur cyclists of varying fitness levels to participate each year, following a demanding course through the Luxembourg countryside.
The route is deliberately designed to include many of the same hills and roads that Charly Gaul himself used for his training rides. The race starts and finishes in Echternach and typically offers two different course lengths, a longer one around 150 km and a shorter one around 100 km, both featuring the tough hills that define the region, including parts of Luxembourg’s “Little Switzerland” region.
The event’s history is a tribute to Charly Gaul’s lasting impact on cycling in Luxembourg, providing a way for both seasoned and amateur riders to experience the challenging terrain that made him a legend.
The 34th CHARLY GAUL takes place on September 1, 2024 in Echternach.
Contact:
ACC Contern
c/o Alain Conter
47, Op der Hobuch
L-5832 FENTANGE
Tél: (+352) 621 23 16 45
acccontern@gmail.com
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