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Ultracycling legend Jack Thompson has embarked on an extraordinary challenge: replicating the inaugural Tour de France of 1903. Dubbed the "1903 Project," Thompson aims to ride 2,428 kilometers (1,509 miles) in just six days, completely unsupported, on a bicycle with only two gears. This audacious endeavor is a homage to the origins of cycling’s most iconic race, celebrating the grit and determination of the riders who first competed in the Tour over a century ago.
The Challenge
Thompson’s route closely mirrors the original 1903 Tour de France, consisting of six grueling stages averaging 400 kilometers (248 miles) per day. The final stage, from Nantes to Paris, is particularly brutal, spanning 530 kilometers (329 miles). To add to the difficulty, Thompson is riding a Specialized Roubaix modified with a single-speed conversion kit, giving him only two gear options: 48×16 and 35×16. This setup is a nod to the rudimentary technology available to riders in 1903, who competed on heavy steel bicycles with limited gearing.
Originally, Thompson planned to use a bike with a single 17-tooth cog, but he had to adjust his strategy just hours before starting the challenge. While the 1903 Tour avoided the high mountains (the Pyrenees and Alps were not included until 1910), the relentless distance and minimal gearing will test Thompson’s endurance and mental fortitude.
A Tribute to Cycling’s Roots
Thompson’s project is less about breaking records and more about experiencing the raw challenge faced by the pioneers of the sport. In an interview with Cycling Weekly, Thompson explained his motivation: “It’s about going and seeing how hard it was for them when they did that back then.” He acknowledged that modern roads and bikes are vastly superior to those of 1903, but the project is a way to connect with the past and honor the spirit of those early cyclists.
“In this day and age, when everyone is interested in all the new technology, it’s about the fact that they were doing it back 122 years ago, with just the two gears on super skinny tires,” Thompson said. “I think there’s something cool about going and seeing how it would have been.”
Thompson’s stripped-down bicycle and unsupported journey highlight the stark contrast between the early days of the Tour and the high-tech, hyper-organized event it has become. While modern cyclists like Tadej Pogačar and Jonas Vingegaard benefit from cutting-edge equipment, nutrition, and support teams, Thompson’s 1903 Project is a throwback to a simpler, far more grueling era.
Thompson’s Ultra-Endurance Pedigree
This latest challenge is just one in a long line of ultra-endurance feats for Jack Thompson. The 37-year-old Australian has earned a reputation as a legend in the ultracycling world, completing numerous Everesting challenges (climbing the equivalent of Mount Everest in elevation gain on a bicycle) and setting Fastest Known Times (FKTs) on routes around the globe. In 2021, he rode the entire Tour de France route in just 10 days, supported by a dedicated crew. However, the 1903 Project represents a new level of difficulty, combining extreme distance with minimal gear options and no external support.
Thompson’s ability to push the limits of human endurance has made him a standout figure in the ultracycling community. His willingness to take on challenges that others would deem impossible underscores his passion for the sport and his desire to explore its history.
The Mental and Physical Battle
Thompson’s journey is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Riding upwards of 400 kilometers per day on a two-speed bike requires relentless focus, resilience, and an ability to manage fatigue and discomfort. The lack of support means Thompson must carry everything he needs—food, water, repair kits, and other essentials—on his bike, adding to the physical burden.
The early stages of the challenge have already tested Thompson’s resolve. Departing Paris at 4:00 a.m. CET on Monday, he began his journey under the cover of darkness, setting the tone for the long days ahead. His goal is to complete the route by Saturday, a feat that will require unwavering dedication and a willingness to embrace the pain that comes with such an undertaking.
A Modern Adventure with a Historical Twist
The 1903 Project is more than just a personal challenge for Thompson; it’s a celebration of cycling’s origins and a reminder of how far the sport has come. By replicating the conditions of the first Tour de France, Thompson is paying tribute to the pioneers who laid the foundation for the modern sport. His journey is a testament to the enduring allure of cycling and the allure of pushing boundaries.
As Thompson continues his epic ride, he is not only testing his own limits but also inspiring others to reflect on the history and evolution of cycling. Whether he succeeds in his ambitious goal or encounters unforeseen obstacles, his efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the grit and determination that define the sport.
Conclusion
Jack Thompson’s 1903 Project is a bold and unconventional endeavor that captures the imagination of cycling enthusiasts worldwide. By tackling the original Tour de France route on a two-speed bike, unsupported and in just six days, Thompson is honoring the spirit of the sport’s pioneers while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in ultracycling. His journey is a testament to the enduring appeal of cycling’s rich history and the relentless pursuit of adventure. Whether he crosses the finish line in Paris or not, Thompson’s project has already made its mark as a modern tribute to cycling’s wildest beginnings.
