An open-air theater. On July 12, 1964, the heat taped the mountain. The 20th stage of the Tour de France which stretches from Brive to the Puy de Dôme (237.5 km) lands on a molten volcano offering its glowing sides and its stunning final spiral staircase (last 5 km at 13%). Jacques Anquetil, the yellow jersey, fencing on the mountain side, Raymond Poulidor in his legendary purple jersey Mercier grits his teeth on the precipice side. For a moment, the bikes leave their line, pitch up, magnetized. Shoulder to shoulder, shoulder to shoulder, the bodies of experienced duelists seem to be one. Eyes cling to the burning bitumen, receding tongue. The explanation is carnal, breathless.
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The black and white image, signed Roger Krieger of L'Équipe , has survived the years. Without losing its strength. Without getting a wrinkle. “ We were almost losing our balance. I felt his breath. The crowd was screaming, but we didn't hear or just a vague noise that eased our suffering
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