There was a time when sporting feats rhymed with a certain state of drunkenness!
What may look like a joke at first glance is entirely serious. Alcohol was a perfectly regulation way to hydrate.
Around sixty years ago, beyond the « classic » feed zones, when they got thirsty, riders would stop at village bistros and quench their thirst with alcoholic drinks such as beer, cognac or even Bordeaux wine.
During races, riders were banned from sharing their water bottles, so the village bar stop became unavoidable (or almost).
It took a few years and a few legislative changes (among other things) for this practice to disappear.
Between you and me, you have to admit that finishing the Tour de France with a fine glass of Pessac in hand must have had real style!
