Ondřej Sosenka

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Ondřej Sosenka (born 9 December 1975 in Prague, Czech Republic) is a former professional road cyclist and track cyclist from the Czech Republic. He is best known for breaking the Hour record in cycling, a feat he accomplished on 19 July 2005 at the velodrome in Moscow, Russia. Sosenka's achievement in the hour record, covering a distance of 49.700 kilometers, surpassed the previous record held by Chris Boardman. However, Sosenka's record was later surpassed by Jens Voigt in 2014, and subsequently by other cyclists under the new regulations set by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

Career

Ondřej Sosenka began his professional cycling career in the late 1990s, initially focusing on road racing. He competed in various international competitions, including the Giro d'Italia and the Vuelta a España, showcasing his abilities as a time trial specialist. Sosenka's prowess in time trials was evident, with several national championships to his name, which laid the foundation for his attempt at the hour record.

In addition to his road racing career, Sosenka also had a significant presence on the track. His transition to focusing on the hour record was a natural progression given his time-trialling skills and interest in track cycling. The hour record attempt in 2005 was a highlight of his career, bringing him international recognition.

Hour Record

The hour record is one of the most prestigious achievements in cycling, requiring a cyclist to ride as far as possible within one hour. Sosenka's attempt on 19 July 2005 was meticulously planned, with a focus on aerodynamics, training, and equipment. Riding a specially designed bike and wearing an aerodynamic suit, Sosenka managed to cover a distance of 49.700 kilometers, setting a new world record.

Controversy

Ondřej Sosenka's career was not without controversy. In 2008, he tested positive for the banned substance methamphetamine during an out-of-competition test and was subsequently banned from professional cycling for two years. This incident cast a shadow over his achievements, including the hour record.

Legacy

Despite the controversy, Ondřej Sosenka's contribution to the sport of cycling, particularly his hour record, remains a significant part of cycling history. His record stood as a benchmark for future attempts and highlighted the physical and technical challenges involved in breaking the hour record. Sosenka's achievement is a testament to the enduring appeal of the hour record as a measure of a cyclist's endurance, power, and determination.

See Also

• Hour record
• Chris Boardman
• Jens Voigt
• Union Cycliste Internationale