Winfried Bölke facts for kids
![]() Francis Bazire, Flaviano Vicentini and Winfried Bölke at the 1963 UCI Road World Championships
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Quick facts for kids Personal information |
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Born | Genthin, Nazi Germany |
25 May 1941
Died | 26 January 2021 Dortmund, Germany |
(aged 79)
Team information |
Winfried Bölke was a talented German cyclist. He was born on May 25, 1941, and passed away on January 26, 2021. Winfried was best known for his achievements in road bicycle racing during the 1960s.
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Who Was Winfried Bölke?
Winfried Bölke grew up in Genthin, which is a town in Germany. From a young age, he showed great skill in cycling. He decided to pursue cycling as a career.
Starting His Cycling Journey
Winfried began his cycling journey as an amateur. Amateur athletes compete for the love of the sport. They do not earn money from their races. This period is often where athletes build their skills. It helps them prepare for professional competitions.
Winfried's Big Year: 1963
The year 1963 was very special for Winfried Bölke. He achieved two major successes. These wins helped him become well-known in the cycling world.
Winning the National Championships
In 1963, Winfried won the German national championships. This meant he was the best road cyclist in his country that year. Winning a national title is a huge honor for any athlete. It shows they are at the top of their game.
Bronze at the World Championships
Later in 1963, Winfried competed in the UCI Road World Championships. This is a very important international event. Cyclists from all over the world come to compete. Winfried won a bronze medal in the road race for amateurs. A bronze medal means he finished third in the world. This was a fantastic achievement for him.
Becoming a Professional Cyclist
After his success as an amateur, Winfried Bölke became a professional cyclist. Professional cyclists compete for money and prizes. They often join teams and travel to races. Winfried continued to race professionally for many years. He competed until 1973.
What is Road Bicycle Racing?
Road bicycle racing is a sport where cyclists race on paved roads. Races can be short or very long. They often involve different types of terrain. This includes flat roads, hills, and even mountains. Cyclists use special lightweight bikes. They work together in teams during races.
Winfried Bölke's Legacy
Winfried Bölke is remembered as a strong and dedicated cyclist. His bronze medal at the World Championships was a highlight of his career. He inspired many young cyclists in Germany. His achievements show that hard work can lead to great success.