1930, 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.
Casa Darder, key in Nicolau’s career
Casa Darder is one of the main promoters and sponsors of the island cycling. The brothers Antoni and Pere Darder are two of the main bicycle manufacturers in Mallorca. It is essential to highlight that they provide Nicolau with bicycles during his whole career. Casa Darder was located in the Alexandre Rosselló Avenue, number 34.
His close friendship with Mariano Cañardo
Mariano Cañardo Lacasta (Olite, Navarra, February 5th, 1906 – Barcelona, June 20th, 1987), was a great friend of Josep Nicolau and a dominating cyclist during this period. Cañardo was a professional cyclist, considered one of the best Catalan cyclists in history. His record of 7 Tours of Catalonia has not been overtaken yet. He was known by the Catalan nickname Olite.
Ca na Maria des Cego and his link with cycling
Ca na Maria des Cego was a textile and dressmaking establishment founded in the 1860s in Palma. It was initially located in Marquès del Palmer square but in the 1900s it was relocated in Colon Street, as it can be seen in this image. At the beginning of the 20th Century the shop was completely remodelled, and it is currently a Benetton store.
Triumph at the 3rd stage of the Llevant Tour II
Nicolau’s recognition in the Llevant Tour arrives during its third stage, between Alcoi and Pobla Llarga (155km). The cyclist from Lloret gets his desired victory with a sprint, overtaking García Telmo and Josep Maria Sans, second and third positions. His victory marks a milestone in his career and in the islands cycling. Thus, Nicolau becomes the first Balearic cyclist to win a stage in a tour in the mainland.
New victory at the last stage of the Llevant Tour II
Nicolau wins at the last stage, between Vinaròs and València (160km). The tour, which was completed without any difficulties, ends up with a sprint. During the final stage a large group is formed by Cañardo, Sans, Escuriet, Ballester, Flaquer and Nicolau, among others. They are the chosen ones to win the final stage. Finally, Nicolau imposes his speed to get another victory after overtaking Sans and Cañardo.