Bernardo Ruiz, Spain’s first cyclist and cycling legend, dies at 100 years old in his hometown

Bernardo Ruiz was born in Orihuela and died on Thursday at age 100.

He was the third Spaniard on the Tour de France podium in 1952 after winning La Vuelta.

La Vuelta paid tribute on its social media accounts to a pioneer. “Rest in Peace Bernardo Ruiz. Legend of Spanish Cycling.” He was a legend and a pioneer in an age dominated by giants such as Coppi. We bid farewell to a legendary reference in sport.”

Modern Spanish star, Murcia’s Alejandro Valverde said he was ‘one of the first great icons of Spanish cycling’.

‘El Pipa’, the nickname given to him by his family as a child, was a professional between 1945 and 1958.

He won stages of the Giro d’Italia as well as the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana, both in 1957.

Ruiz worked as a manager for a cycling squad after retiring. He helped Angelino Soler win La Vuelta, 1961.

He opened a motorbike and bicycle store in Orihuela, which quickly established itself among the best in Vega Baja.

He was named a ‘Favourite Son’ of Orihuela with several public spaces dedicated to him and where a tribute was recently paid to him on his 100th birthday, where he attended an exhibition of photos highlighting his career.

Ruiz also received the Medal of Sports Merit from the Valencian Government in 2015.

Orihuela City Council declared two days of mourning for the victims on Thursday and Friday. Flags were lowered at all public buildings.

Click here to read the latest Sport News from The Olive Press.