History
Cycling is another of the events that was contested at the first modern Olympiad in 1896. It has been a part of every Olympic Games since but has changed drastically over the years. In the origins of the sport men rode whatever they could piece together, smoked cigarettes, and drank beer and champagne while racing. Since then bikes have become feather weight and made of titanium, athletes go through stringent training regiments, and the racing is much more team and much lass individually oriented.
In terms of medals, France and Italy have dominated, winning more than double the number of medals of any other country. Most of these have come in the traditional Cycling events (Track and Road races) but a few have come in the more modern events such as BMX and Mountain Biking.
Women were first allowed to compete in 1984 in which a women's road race was held. Since that time they have gained entrance into every event and have become a vital part of the expansion of the sport on the international stage.
In terms of medals, France and Italy have dominated, winning more than double the number of medals of any other country. Most of these have come in the traditional Cycling events (Track and Road races) but a few have come in the more modern events such as BMX and Mountain Biking.
Women were first allowed to compete in 1984 in which a women's road race was held. Since that time they have gained entrance into every event and have become a vital part of the expansion of the sport on the international stage.