Australia’s first ever Tour de France winner honoured by his national hall of fame
Cadel Evans (BMC Racing) has seen his victory in this year’s Tour de France recognised by the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (SAHOF), which has presented him with its most prestigious award, “The Don”, according to ABC News. The award, named after legendary Australian cricketer Don Bradman, was created by SAHOF in 1998 “to honour a current Australian athlete who, by their achievements and example over the last 12 months, are considered to have had the capacity to most inspire the nation.”
Evans’ Tour win was the first for his country and is considered by many to be the greatest sporting achievement ever by an Australian, eclipsing the 1983 Americas Cup sailing victory. The 34-year-old from the Northern Territories was unable to be at the ceremony in person, as he is currently at his other home in Switzerland, but sent a video message to show his appreciation.
“I’m very honoured, I’m very overwhelmed to receive The Don award,” he said. “It’s a great honour in the world of sport, and in every sport.”
Since he is still an active sportsman Evans is not yet eligible to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, but would be a shoo-in to join the likes of Phil Anderson – the first man from outside Europe to wear the yellow jersey – once he retires. As the only current Australian Tour winner, Evans would very likely be declared a “Legend of Australian Sport” by the SAHOF, alongside late, great riders Dunc Gray and Sir Hubert Opperman.
With his achievements this season, Evans will be odds on to win a record fourth “Oppy”, the Sir Hubert Opperman Trophy, awarded by Cycling Australia to the Cyclist of the Year.