By: Sam Kinches
 
Israel is globally known for making incredible contributions and advancements in the fields of technology, agriculture and medicine; however, their athletic resume isn’t nearly as prestigious. Over the past few years an attempt has been made to change that narrative. Thanks to the help of Israeli-Canadian philanthropist Sylvan Adams mush needed resources have been invested in the Israel Star-Up Nation Cycling Team. 

This past August, the team announced that Guy Niv would become the first native born Israeli to ever race in the Tour De France as a member of the first Israel based and owned team to participate in the competition. Although the roster consists mainly of international cyclists, the entire country have their eyes on their hometown hero on cycling’s biggest stage. The 26-year-old Misgav native will be making a huge leap by participating in the Tour as he will gain a tremendous amount of experience in a number of areas.

Niv has been successful in domestic races and will look to continue improving in the international realm where his best finishes have come at the Tour de Taiwan where he placed 6th and the Beiras e Serra da Estrela where he finished 7th.

The Sabra arrived at the Tour De France ready to make a name for himself and has so far been able to finish the first three stages of the race. He took 154th place at the first stage of the race which was 156 kilometers in Nice Moyen Pays, Nice. He followed that up with a much improved 117th place performance in the 186 kilometer uphill struggle through Nice Haut Pays, Nice the following day.

He then packed 133rd in a flat 198 kilometer ride through the entire city of Nice. Niv’s introduction to the global spotlight wasn’t perfect but the fact that he has even made it this far is a remarkable feat in itself.

Most importantly, his overall performance was inspiring as it stretched beyond the track as it gave the people of Israel something to cheer for during a time of challenge throughout the world as he continues to inspire the next generation of Israeli cyclists.