Martín Alonso Ramírez, the Colombian pioneer who made history at the 1984 Criterium du Dauphiné

The name of Martín Alonso Ramírez is inscribed in golden letters in the rich history of Colombian cycling. In the year 1984, this talented rider became the first Colombian to win the prestigious Criterium du Dauphiné, a feat that left fans in awe and catapulted Colombia onto the international cycling scene.

In an unforgettable feat, Ramírez bested two legends of the sport, Bernard Hinault and Greg LeMond, in a show of courage and determination. At the 1984 Criterium du Dauphiné, Martín Alonso Ramírez faced a monumental challenge. Hinault, a five-time Tour de France winner, and LeMond, a three-time (later) champion, were the heavy favourites for victory. However, the Colombian cyclist was not intimidated and took on the challenge with a bold mentality and unstoppable strength.

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Throughout the competition, Ramírez demonstrated his prowess in the mountainous stages, climbing with speed and stamina. His ability to maintain a relentless pace on the most demanding terrain outpaced his rivals and led him to glory. Crossing the finish line as champion was a historic moment not only for him, but also for the entire country, which proudly celebrated this unprecedented victory.

INFLUENCE

But the Colombian influence on the Criterium du Dauphiné did not stop there. In later years, other Colombian cyclists shone in this prestigious competition, demonstrating their talent and consolidating the country's position on the world cycling scene.

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Lucho Herrera , known as the "Little Gardener", became an emblematic figure of Colombian cycling by winning the Criterium du Dauphiné twice: 1988 and 1991. His seasoned style and mountain prowess captivated fans, and his victory in this test he reaffirmed the Colombian dominance in the big races.  

In 2020, another emerging talent, Daniel Martínez , added his name to the list of Colombian champions by taking victory at the Criterium du Dauphiné. His masterful performance demonstrated that the new generation of Colombian cyclists continues to raise the bar and conquer the most demanding stages.

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In addition to the winners, several Colombian cyclists have made their mark on the Criterium du Dauphiné podium. Henry Cárdenas, Álvaro Mejía, Oliverio Rincón and Santiago Botero have demonstrated their quality and strength by reaching outstanding positions in this world-renowned competition.

In short, the triumph of Martín Alonso Ramírez in the 1984 Criterium du Dauphiné marked a milestone in Colombian cycling, opening the doors to future victories and establishing Colombia as a power in the world of cycling. Lucho Herrera, Daniel Martínez and other prominent cyclists have followed in Ramírez's footsteps, carrying the Colombian flag to the top in this prestigious competition. The legacy of these riders is a testament to Colombia's talent and passion for cycling, and their presence on the Criterium du Dauphiné podium will always be remembered with admiration.

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