Sean Kelly - 1987 - Paris-Nice leader’s TT skinsuit
Description:
Leader's skinsuit worn and signed by Sean Kelly during the Col d'Eze time trial. Made by Bovis.
The 1987 Paris–Nice was the 45th edition of the Paris–Nice cycle race and was held from 3 March to 9 March 1987. The race started in Paris and finished at the Col d'Èze. The race was won by Sean Kelly of the Kas team.
THE INCREDIBLE STORY OF THE IRISH DUEL AT THE 1987 PARIS-NICE
There were two stages on the final day - a short but very tough 104-kilometre road stage from Mandelieu to Nice, going over the Col de Vence, then the traditional Col d'Èze time trial in the afternoon.
Sean Kelly regained the white leader's jersey on Sunday morning's stage following an unfortunate incident with Stephen Roche. In the final time trial on Sunday afternoon on the Col d'Eze, Stephen Roche won by 10 seconds over Sean Kelly, who went on to win the overall classification and his sixth Paris-Nice in a row!
For eight years in the eighties, Paris-Nice was an Irish race. Between Stephen Roche's win in 1981 and Sean Kelly's last visit to the top step of the podium in 1988, no other nation took victory in la course au soleil. An impressive enough stat. Made even more impressive when you look at the history of the race: it's never happened before.
Sean Kelly, a name synonymous with dominance in professional cycling during the 1980s, remains one of the sport’s most revered figures. Known for his tenacity, versatility, and unmatched consistency, Kelly amassed a staggering list of achievements, including nine Monument victories, seven consecutive Paris-Nice titles, and countless other accolades. But beyond the trophies and accolades lies a deeper story—a rich legacy of passion, sacrifice, and history that Kelly himself has curated into a personal museum, offering fans a glimpse into his extraordinary.