Yorkshire Tour De France legend hits the road for book tour

Barry Hoban visited Woodrup’s, in Leeds, as part of a natiowide tour to launch his new book ‘Vas-y-Barry’.

He was born and brought in near Wakefield. A professional racing cyclist, his career spanned three decades. Until the arrival of Mark Cavendish, Hoban’s eight Tour de France stage wins were the most by any British rider.

He still holds the record for completing the gruelling three week annual event. I’ve got close links with Woodrups that go back over 50 years.

“When I was an up and coming rider, Maurice Woodrup, who started the business, helped me out with equipment and built me a number of racing frames which I used both here and on the continent.”

Steve Woodrup who, along with his son Anthony, arranged Hoban’s visit has continued the bespoke frame building started by his father. Steve said: “Following the Grand Depart here in Leeds and the ‘Tour de Yorkshire’, cycling has never been more popular. If Barry had been racing today, his name would be as well-known as Wiggins, Froome and Cavendish.”

It’s been great to have him here for the book-signing and, of course, to maintain the link with him which goes all the way back to the sixties.”