Here at the Cor Blekemolenbrug, we honor a local hero. Who was Cor Blekemolen? Let’s find out more about this bridge and the man it commemorates.
Cor Blekemolen was more than just a cyclist. He was born in Amsterdam on February 7, 1894. Young Cor lived above his parents’ slaughterhouse. His journey began unexpectedly.
He worked at a bicycle repair shop. His neighbor Louis Beisenherz inspired him. Louis was a cyclist too. Cor joined a cycling club in 1909. In 1912, he placed third in the national road-racing championships.
Before World War I, Blekemolen earned medals. He won bronze and gold at the UCI Motor-paced World Championships. These wins marked him as a rising star.
After World War I, Cor turned professional. He won national titles in motor-paced racing in 1920 and 1931. Blekemolen wasn’t always the most successful. Yet, he was loved for his racing style. He enjoyed the competition. He avoided crashes. The final result wasn’t everything to him.
In 1935, Blekemolen retired from racing. He briefly worked at De Magneet bicycle company. Later, he managed the Utrecht Stadium. He also coached with the Royal Dutch Cycling Union. In 1959, he coached Arie van Houwelingen to a world title.
Cor Blekemolen died in 1972. He left behind a wife and daughter. His influence extends beyond cycling wins. He embodied sportsmanship.
This bridge, the Cor Blekemolenbrug, stands as a tribute. It honors his contributions to cycling and Amsterdam. Consider the spirit of Blekemolen. He valued the journey. He found joy in competition. The Cor Blekemolenbrug isn’t just steel and concrete. It represents dedication and passion. Every time we cross the Cor Blekemolenbrug, we remember a true Amsterdam hero. A man who loved cycling and life itself.