Gilbert / Laroche Rivalry

Over the last decade with the exception of Sebastien Moquin who is presently retired from competition, the Mardis Cyclistes series has been owned by either Martin Gilbert or Jean-Francois Laroche so as we reach the halfway point of the season it's not surprising to see these two athletes occupy the top two places of the overall standings.

While some might argue that Laroche has an unfair advantage due to Gilbert being unavailable for certain stages of the Lachine classic, it can also be argued that Gilbert has been accompanied by a stronger supporting cast.

Any way you choose to look at it, this friendly yet extremely competitive rivalry does not disappoint and with both athletes putting on quite the spectacle whether the other is present or not, the next six stages of the Mardis Cyclistes series promise more of the same.

After placing fourth in stage four, defending Mardis Cyclistes champion, Jean-Francois Laroche will be wearing yellow again tomorrow evening.

Mardis Cyclistes Champions (2001-2010)

2001: Martin Gilbert

2002: Martin Gilbert

2003: Sebastien Moquin

2004: Martin Gilbert

2005: Sebastien Moquin

2006: Sebastien Moquin

2007: Jean-Francois Laroche

2008: Jean-Francois Laroche

2009: Martin Gilbert

2010: Jean-Francois Laroche

Posted in: Les Athletes,Les Mardis Cyclistes 2011,Pasquale Stalteri