‘In Tirador, one comes to lose’
This expression became a mantra in the Tirador Velodrome during the 1930s decade. The spectators and cycling enthusiasts dedicated this phrase to the rivals of an extraordinary cyclist named Josep Nicolau Balaguer, who was born in Lloret de Vistalegre and dominated the island cycling with iron fist.
Born in Lloret de Vistalegre in 1907. Without a doubt, Nicolau was a pioneering figure in the history of sports in the Balearic Islands. His legacy, which remains alive, has inspired the following generations since then.
Despite his tragic death during the official competition in 1934, he accumulated a remarkable track record. He died in an accident during a competition in the Tirador Velodrome on November 19th, 1934. In 2022 he was unanimously proclaimed illustrious son of Lloret de Vistalegre.
Below, you can discover the most relevant facts about his life and purchase the monograph, ‘Josep Nicolau Balaguer, el Canó de Llorito’. Lastly, you will have the opportunity to listen to the podcast recorded by the publishing coordinators and watch the first trailer of a future documentary.
The birth of the myth
Josep Nicolau Balaguer was born in a modest and farming family on February 8th, 1907, in the village of Lloret de Vistalegre. In the historical period known as the Restoration, society was characterised by illiteracy and tyranny.
Beginning in the world of cycling
After turning 20, along with other friends from the village, Nicolau decides to start out in the world of cycling. Although he was a beginner, he achieved quite remarkable performances and shows a huge potential in races, both on the velodrome and on the road.
The generational change
Nicolau starts to be regarded within the Balearic cycling world, which currently doesn’t have a mentor. His ambition inspires hope among the fandoms. Definitely, he is the future of cycling in the island.
The confirmation moment
After only three seasons, Nicolau becomes one of the trendy cyclists in the Balearic Islands. His results and specially his projection he accredits predict a splendid future for him. Moreover, Nicolau’s ambition has no limits, and the national calendar starts to catch his eye.
Marking his own period
Nicolau ends an exceptional season nationally and regionally. Thanks to his results in the mainland races, he becomes a national figure, highlighting his podium in the Spanish Road Race Championship XXXI, celebrated in Madrid.
The ultimate leap to the national elite
In 1932 Nicolau takes the ultimate leap to the national elite and becomes on of the most important cyclists. His victories lead him to the France Tour. Insularity and sponsorship are weaknesses that will be needed to tackle to overcome this new challenge.
Participation in the UCI Road Championships in France
In 1933, Nicolau sets a turning point in his sports trajectory with his participation in the UCI Road Championships in Montlhéry, France. He becomes the first participant from the islands. His outstanding performance becomes a key asset in the European tours.
The afternoon of the tragedy in Tirador
A spectacular season is foreseen in 1934. After the creation of the Nicolau’s supporters club, the cyclist will present his application to the most relevant races. Sadly, Nicolau passes away after a tragic accident in Tirador Velodrome on November 19th.
From oblivion to recovery
Acts of consolation occur all around the island. All sports institutions and the whole society pay him a heartfelt tribute. Nicolau’s supporters club tirelessly fight to consolidate his legendary status. Sadly, his figure falls into oblivion until his proclamation as an illustrious son of Lloret de Vistalegre.
Josep Nicolau, el Canó de Llorito documentary
Discover the life of the myth in Balear cycling with an passionate documentary with unedited testimonies on the figure of Josep Nicolau. It was produced and directed by the Lloret Cycling Club, Lloret de Vistalegre Town Council and La Perifèrica Produccions.
You can also enjoy the extended version of the documentary with additional testimonies and a new montage. Just click here.
Monographic book, now on sale
The monograph ‘Josep Nicolau Balaguer, el canó de Llorito’ is a collection of different studies and communications on his figure presented at the ‘I Jornades Josep Nicolau Balaguer ’ organised by Lloret Cycling Club and the Town Council of Lloret de Vistalegre in May 2022. It includes different articles beyond his sporting career, analysing the culture, society, and politics of the time, which also marked his life.
The coordinators of the book are Montserrat Mateu and Guillem M. Pastor, while the list of authors includes, in addition to the aforementioned collaborators, Andreu Ramis, history graduate, Pere Fullana, Manuel García, an cycling historian from the Balearic Islands, Gabriel Pernau, Miquel Sbert, and Fernando Fernández, a journalist from the newspaper Última Hora.
The publication is on sale at Lloret de Vistalegre Town Hall, the Lloret de Vistalegre tobacco shop and specialised bookshops. You can also buy it online by clicking on the buy button.
