muh-nuh-muhnt
Noun
A grueling, long-distance cycling race
Example usage: 'The Tour of Flanders is considered one of cycling's most challenging monuments.'
Most used in: Europe, particularly in the Flanders region.
Most used by: Professional and amateur cyclists.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 3
Also see: Gran Fondo, Classic, Monumental, Monument,
What is a Monument in Cycling?
A monument in cycling is a classic race that is held annually or bi-annually. These races are considered to be some of the most prestigious cycling events and are usually held in the spring or summer. Monuments are typically one-day races that are considered to be the most difficult and grueling events in cycling, with long distances and challenging terrain.
The five monuments of cycling are the Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège and the Giro di Lombardia. These races are some of the most difficult and most popular cycling races in the world, with thousands of spectators and millions of viewers around the globe. The winners of these races are usually considered to be some of the best cyclists in the world. The winners of these races are often regarded with the same level of respect as the winners of the Tour de France and other major cycling events.
The Milan-San Remo is the oldest of the five monuments, having been first held in 1907. It is a 294km race that takes place in northern Italy and is considered to be the longest one-day race in cycling. The Tour of Flanders, which was first held in 1913, is a 254km race that takes place in Belgium. Paris-Roubaix is a 257km race that takes place in France and is known for its cobblestones. Liège-Bastogne-Liège is a 258km race that takes place in Belgium and is known for its hilly terrain. The Giro di Lombardia is a 247km race that takes place in Italy and is known for its challenging climbs.
These five monuments are considered to be the pinnacle of cycling and are held in high regard by cycling fans and athletes alike. Winning one of these races is a huge accomplishment and is a sign of a cyclist’s skill and endurance. The winners of these races are usually celebrated and remembered for years to come.
.The Origin of the Term 'Monument' in Cycling
The term 'monument' was first associated with cycling in the late 19th century in Belgium. The first use of the term was during the Tour of Flanders, an annual road cycling race held in Flanders, Belgium since 1913. The race is a one-day event and is known for its cobbled, hilly terrain.
The term 'monument' was first used to describe the race in the early 20th century to refer to the difficulty of the race and the sheer magnitude of the event. The term was also used to honour the fallen soldiers of World War I. The term is now used to refer to any major cycling race such as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia.
Today, 'monument' is an integral part of cycling culture and is used to describe the most prestigious and iconic cycling events in the world. The term is used to honour the riders who have achieved great success in these races and to celebrate the rich history of cycling.
