Paris–Rouen

For the world's first motor race in 1894 see 1894 Paris–Rouen

Winner James Moore (right) and Jean-Eugène-André Castera at Paris–Rouen

Paris–Rouen was the first cycle race covering a distance between two cities. It was held between the cities of Paris and Rouen on 7 November 1869. The winner of the inaugural Paris–Rouen race was an Englishman living in Paris, James Moore, who rode the 123 kilometres dividing both cities in 10 hours and 40 minutes, including time spent walking his bicycle up the steeper hills.^[1]

The event was organized by the fortnightly cycling magazine Le Vélocipède Illustré and the Olivier brothers, owners of a bicycle manufacturer company called The Michaux Company. They were delighted with the success of short races held in Parc de Saint Cloud, Paris and on 7 November they promoted a race between Paris and Rouen, covering a distance of 123 kilometres. The first prize was one thousand gold francs and a bicycle. The rules of the race said that the riders were not to be pulled by a dog or use sails.^[2]

A total of 120 riders, including two women, participated in the race but just 32 finished before 24 hours. James Moore won with 15 minutes of advantage on Castera and Bobillier.^[3] The first woman, referred to as Miss America, finished 12 hours and 10 minutes after Moore at 29th position.

After the eruption of Franco-Prussian War in 1870 the race was no longer held but it was held as an amateur race in later years.^[4] The centenary of the race was commemorated on 12 May 1969. The winner was Régis Delepine, who received the same price as James Moore 100 years ago, one thousand gold francs as 50 Louis.^[1]

General Standings

07-11-1869: Paris–Rouen, 123 km

References