The Tour DuPont, a prominent cycling stage race in the United States, has a fascinating history that traces back to its origins as the Tour de Trump. Initially sponsored by Donald Trump, the race was held in 1989 and 1990 before transitioning to the Tour DuPont from 1991 to 1996. This article delves into the race's inception, its transformation, and its eventual conclusion.
The Birth of the Tour de Trump
The idea for the Tour de Trump was conceived by CBS Sports reporter John Tesh,
who was inspired after covering the 1987 Tour de France. Tesh suggested the concept to basketball commentator and entrepreneur Billy Packer, who initially planned to call it the Tour de Jersey. Seeking sponsorship, Packer approached representatives of Atlantic City casinos, leading to Donald Trump becoming the primary sponsor. Trump, despite initial reservations about the name, was convinced of its commercial potential and agreed to lend his name to the event.
The inaugural Tour de Trump in 1989 was a significant event, with a total prize money of $250,000, including $50,000 for the overall winner. The race attracted high-profile riders and teams, filling a void left by the Coors International Bicycle Classic. The first edition started in Albany, New York, and concluded in Atlantic City, New Jersey, covering 1,347 kilometers over ten stages.
Transition to the Tour DuPont
After two years, financial difficulties led Trump to withdraw his sponsorship, and the race was rebranded as the Tour DuPont in 1991. DuPont, a chemical company headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, took over as the primary sponsor. The race continued to attract top-tier competitors, including Lance Armstrong and Greg LeMond, and was upgraded to a 2.1 ranked race by the Union Cycliste Internationale in 1996, making it the highest-ranked race outside Europe.
During its tenure as the Tour DuPont, the race expanded its reach, including stages in South Carolina and consistently visiting Richmond, Virginia. The event was seen as a testament to Richmond's capability to host international cycling events, contributing to the city's successful bid for the 2015 UCI Road World Championships.
The End of an Era
Despite its success, the Tour DuPont faced challenges, including legal disputes and changing corporate priorities. In 1996, DuPont ended its sponsorship, citing a need to focus on strategic markets elsewhere. The race was not held again after that year. The Tour DuPont's legacy, however, lives on, having paved the way for future cycling events in the United States and leaving a lasting impact on the sport's history in North America.
