Guy Niv is set to ride into the history books as the first Israeli to compete in the world's most prestigious cycling race, the Tour de France.
Niv, 26, who will represent Team Israel Start-Up Nation was, until three years ago, primarily a mountain bike racer with very little road racing experience.
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The young rider was understandably overjoyed at his selection.
"I am honored and privileged to represent my country... And to be the first Israeli to do so? It might sound like a cliché, but my dream of a lifetime has now been realized," according to an Israel Start-Up Nation Facebook post.
Team Israel Start-Up Nation is also making history as the first Israel-based and owned team to compete in the Tour de France.
Niv was partly picked because of his prowess as a climber, a useful talent to possess in the 2020 race, considering that there will be more than 50,000 [yards] of climbing.
"As a climber, he is best suited to face this huge challenge," explained team manager Kjell Carlstrom. "But he also showed us that he keeps progressing in other aspects, both mentally and physically."
Team co-owner Sylvan Adams maintained that it was a "proud moment for Israel and for Israeli sport." Back in November, when he knew that an Israeli team would be riding in the Tour for the first time, Adams was adamant that at least one Israeli would secure a seat.
Team Israel scored an impressive coup last month, when it snapped up four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome, after he left his previous outfit Team Ineos.
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