When I was younger Marino Lejerrata often rode all three Grand Tours in the same season. He actually did it four times. And during that time he actually went for it in each of the races and wasn't just cruising along. He even won the 1982 Vuelta, and the points jersey with it. And in 1987 was 24th in the Vuelta, 4th in the Giro, and 10th in the Tour!
Since he retired, I don't know of a single rider who has even attempted all three GT's in the same year, let alone race on that level. If I am incorrect, I'd be happy to be known who.
It's been said that racing in all races has been higher in recent years due to sponsorship, TV exposure, UCI rankings, etc. But I don't think that is the only reason. It's not like riders didn't try to win these races in the past, and remember, Lejerrata went for it, usually as a team leader. Maybe this thread should be about what an unrecognized stud Lejeratta was?!
If someone wants to comment on doping in this thread, that's fine, but I hope it's only within the context of the subject at hand, and based on some logical thinking and examples, please.
Since he retired, I don't know of a single rider who has even attempted all three GT's in the same year, let alone race on that level. If I am incorrect, I'd be happy to be known who.
It's been said that racing in all races has been higher in recent years due to sponsorship, TV exposure, UCI rankings, etc. But I don't think that is the only reason. It's not like riders didn't try to win these races in the past, and remember, Lejerrata went for it, usually as a team leader. Maybe this thread should be about what an unrecognized stud Lejeratta was?!
If someone wants to comment on doping in this thread, that's fine, but I hope it's only within the context of the subject at hand, and based on some logical thinking and examples, please.