CNN —Mark Cavendish made cycling history on Wednesday, winning a record-breaking 35th stage at the Tour de France.
The 39-year-old has now surpassed legendary cyclist Eddy Merckx after winning a chaotic sprint finish at the end of the 177.4 kilometer fifth stage from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas.
Breaking Merckx’s record, who last raced in the Tour de France 49 years ago, has seemed almost impossible for any cyclist, even Cavendish.
I put a big gamble on this year to make sure we are good here at the Tour de France,” an emotional Cavendish told ITV after the win.
His participation in this year’s Tour de France seemed in jeopardy during the first stage, though, as television cameras caught him vomiting on his bike, reportedly struggling from heat exhaustion.
Persons:
Mark Cavendish, Eddy Merckx, Cavendish, “, ” Cavendish
Organizations:
CNN, Tour de France, Saint, Astana, ITV, de France, de
Locations:
Jean, Saint