Spanish cycling pioneer Bernardo Ruiz breathes his last at 100 years of age.
Bernardo Ruiz, a legendary figure in Spanish cycling, turned professional in 1952 and went on to make history as the first Spaniard to win the Vuelta a España in 1948. His victories and achievements paved the way for a new era in Spanish cycling, inspiring generations of cyclists to come.
Ruiz's influence extended beyond his racing career, as he became a successful team manager, helping Angelino Soler win the Vuelta a España in 1961. His impact on the sport is still felt today, with modern stars like Alejandro Valverde recognising Ruiz as one of the first great icons of Spanish cycling.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Ruiz elevated Spanish cycling to international prominence. He set benchmarks by becoming the first Spaniard on the Tour de France podium and winning stages in both the Giro d’Italia and the Tour de France. These achievements helped pave the way for subsequent generations of Spanish cyclists, shaping the culture and aspirations within Spanish cycling.
Ruiz's legacy is marked by numerous achievements. He won the Spanish mountain bike championship once in 1958, and he also won three stages in the Vuelta a España. His victories in the Vuelta a España, Giro d'Italia, and the Spanish road race championship (three times in 1946, 1948, and 1951) solidified his status as a foundational figure in Spanish cycling.
Despite competing during an era dominated by Italian cyclist Fausto Coppi, Ruiz became a legend in his own right. One of his most iconic moments came in the final stage of the Vuelta a España, where he climbed to the top of the Santiago Bernabéu podium.
Ruiz's third place in the 1952 Tour de France was a significant milestone for Spanish cycling, marking a new era of success for the sport in the country. This achievement, along with his many victories, cemented his place as a cycling legend.
As Ruiz celebrated his 100th birthday on January 8, the cycling community took the opportunity to remember and celebrate his life and contributions to the sport. A program dedicated to Ruiz, titled 'The Memories of Bernardo Ruiz', was re-aired in 2015 by Conexión Vintage, providing a glimpse into the life and career of this pioneering cyclist.
Ruiz's influence can still be felt today, as he paved the way for cycling legends like Federico Martín Bahamontes and Luis Ocaña in Spain. His example continues to inspire modern Spanish cyclists, ensuring his legacy will live on for generations to come. As Ruiz himself once said, "I became a cyclist without realizing it." A testament to the passion and dedication that defined his career and continues to inspire cyclists today.
Average performances in sports often serve as benchmarks for future generations. Ruiz, a renowned figure in Spanish cycling, set numerous average-breaking records that continue to inspire modern stars like Alejandro Valverde.
