From June 2nd to June 5th, the HotDoc Cinema on Bloor in Toronto is showing the movie “THE LAST RIDER”. A movie that celebrates the incredible story of American cyclist Greg LeMond as he overcomes betrayal, abuse, and death to achieve one of the most inspiring comebacks in history at the 1989 Tour de France.
With innate talent, an earnest, ethical approach to competition, and an affable, boy-next-door charm, the American Greg LeMond was a popular presence in European cycling. A wizard on the steady, grueling climbs of the Tour de France, LeMond propelled himself to recognition with wins first for the National Team of France, and then unexpectedly for himself in 1986, when a yellow jersey win shocked and thrilled the world (turning some “friends” into adversaries).
Alex Holmes’ poignant documentary makes space for LeMond, with the aid of his extraordinary wife Kathy, to share a deeply personal journey through trauma and the twists and turns of fame and performance amidst immense public pressures. This is a resounding reminder that LeMond represents the world of athletics at its best, and replays one of the greatest comeback stories in sports history.
