You don't really expect to bump into the devil at the Tour de France, do you? It seems this particular devil is there every year and he had quite a following. In fact in the lower photograph he's been interviewed for a newspaper.His name is Didi Senft from Germany and he's to be seen at every Tour de France with his oversized bicycle. I didn't see the bike else I'd have photographed it. It seems he makes these oversized bikes and normally haul his around the complete tour on a truck.
He calls himself The Red Devil because the final kilometre of each stage of the Tour is called The Red Devil's Lap.
I've seen him for years watching The Tour. Even saw him in the Giro but knew nothing about him. Another of life's mysteries solved.
ReplyDeleteWonderful photos! I really love eccentric people. They make me smile and be happy. :)
ReplyDeleteGreat find for a photo!
ReplyDeleteInterestingly enough watching on tv i have seen a few devils (amongst other characters) - good to have some characters
Never heard of this dude when I was following the TdF in France. But he's certainly a character!
ReplyDeleteHe looks like he sits by the roadside, waiting to puncture riders' tires with that trident. Wonderful portraits, full of personality.
ReplyDeleteHe's been at every Tour since 1993, and quite often shows up at other races along with assorted sporting events of all types. Didi is undoubtedly one of le Tour's biggest stars - I'd dearly love to meet him.
ReplyDeleteYou got a personal photo shoot with Didi! I've watched him for years, but only ever got as close as the telly!
ReplyDeleteI've only just got round to looking at all your posts about the Tour, and I have to say they make a really good set, capturing all that makes up the event. Bravo!