Paul Kimmage

MaillotIrlanda

MaillotIrlanda

MaillotIrlanda

Paul Kimmage is a former professional road bicycle racer and Irish sports journalist. Born on May 7, 1962, in Dublin, Ireland, Kimmage's career in cycling spanned both amateur and professional tiers before he transitioned into journalism. He is best known for his outspoken stance against doping in professional cycling and his book "Rough Ride," which details his experiences and observations on doping within the sport.

Early Life and Career

Paul Kimmage was born into a family with a strong cycling background. His father, Christy Kimmage, was also a cyclist, which influenced Paul's early interest in the sport. He quickly made a name for himself in the amateur cycling scene in Ireland before moving on to compete internationally.

Cycling Career

Kimmage turned professional in 1986 and rode for several teams during his career, including the RMO team. His tenure in professional cycling was marked by his participation in major races such as the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España. However, Kimmage was not among the top finishers in these Grand Tours, often working in a support role for his team leaders.

Transition to Journalism

After retiring from professional cycling in the early 1990s, Kimmage pursued a career in journalism. He became a sports writer, focusing primarily on cycling. Kimmage has written for several publications, including The Sunday Times and The Irish Independent.

Advocacy Against Doping

Paul Kimmage is perhaps best known for his advocacy against doping in cycling. His book, "Rough Ride," published in 1990, was one of the first accounts to expose the widespread use of performance-enhancing drugs in the sport. The book detailed his own experiences and the pressure to conform to doping practices within the professional peloton. Kimmage's outspoken stance made him a controversial figure within cycling, leading to both criticism and support from different quarters of the sport.

Legacy

Kimmage's work has had a significant impact on the conversation around doping in sports, particularly cycling. His willingness to speak out and share his experiences has contributed to the ongoing efforts to clean up the sport. Despite facing legal challenges and opposition from some within the cycling community, Kimmage has remained a steadfast advocate for change.

See Also

• Doping in sport
• Cycling
• Tour de France
• Vuelta a España