Here stands the Stèle Jacques Anquetil. It is more than just a stone. It marks a place of triumph and remembrance.
The Stèle Jacques Anquetil commemorates a cycling legend. Jacques Anquetil was no ordinary cyclist. He was the first to win the Tour de France five times. Anquetil also achieved the feat of winning all three Grand Tours. His mastery of time trials set him apart.
Anquetil’s approach was strategic. He conserved energy in the mountains. Then he dominated the time trials. Some people underestimated his climbing. But he simply raced efficiently to win.
He won the Grand Prix des Nations nine times. His first victory came at just 19 years old. This competition was like the world championship of time trialing.
A fierce rivalry fueled Anquetil’s career. Raymond Poulidor often challenged him. Though Anquetil usually prevailed, Poulidor was more popular among French fans.
In 1989, a bronze sculpture honored Anquetil here. It was erected two years after his death. Sadly, the sculpture was stolen. Only the stèle and a commemorative plaque remain.
Anquetil often passed this spot during races. He always led the pack at the summit of the Côte de la Trinité. Châteaufort was a regular part of the Tour de France route. The Stèle Jacques Anquetil reminds us of his victories. It stands as a tribute to a cycling great.