Alberto Fernández (cyclist) facts for kids

Alberto Fernández Blanco (born January 15, 1955 – died December 14, 1984) was a famous Spanish road racing cyclist. He was known for his strong performances in major cycling races. His son, Alberto Fernández Sainz, also became a professional cyclist.

Alberto was born in a town called Cuena, Cantabria, in Spain. When he was an amateur cyclist, he won the Spanish mountain bike championships. He became a professional cyclist in 1978. People often called him el Galleta, which means "the Biscuit". This nickname came from the town where he lived, Aguilar de Campoo, which had many biscuit factories.

A Cycling Star

Alberto Fernández showed his best skills during the last two years of his cycling career. He was a very talented rider who competed in some of the biggest races in the world.

Top Finishes

• In 1982, he finished 10th overall in the 1982 Tour de France. This is one of the most challenging cycling races.
• He made his first appearance in the 1983 Giro d'Italia and finished an amazing 3rd overall.
• He also placed 3rd in the 1983 Vuelta a España.
• In 1984, he improved even more in the 1984 Vuelta a España, finishing 2nd. He was only 6 seconds behind the winner, Éric Caritoux. This was the smallest winning difference ever in any of the Grand Tours!

Sadly, Alberto and his wife passed away in a car accident in December 1984. He was almost 30 years old.

Major Wins and Achievements

Alberto Fernández had many important victories during his career. Here are some of his top achievements:

• In 1979, he won the overall title at the Vuelta a Asturias.
• In 1980, he won the overall title at the 1980 Tour of the Basque Country. He also won a stage in this race.
• He won the overall title at the Vuelta a los Valles Mineros in both 1980 and 1981.
• In 1981, he won the overall title at the Vuelta a la Comunidad Valenciana.
• In 1982, he won the overall title at the 1982 Volta a Catalunya. He also won a stage there.
• In 1983, he won the overall title at the Setmana Catalana de Ciclisme.
• He won two stages in the 1983 Giro d'Italia.
• He won one stage in the 1983 Vuelta a España.
• In 1984, he won the Trofeo Masferrer.

Grand Tour Results

The Grand Tours are the three biggest and most famous cycling races: the Vuelta a España, the Giro d'Italia, and the Tour de France. Here's how Alberto Fernández performed in these races:

Grand Tour	1978	1979	1980	1981	1982	1983	1984
Vuelta a España	19	14	—	DNF	15	3	2
Giro d'Italia	—	—	—	—	—	3	19
Tour de France	—	—	25	21	10	—	—

See also

In Spanish: Alberto Fernández Blanco para niños