Tour de France Femmes: Mauritian rider Kim le Court eyes Tour history for Africa

In July last year – almost 10 years since her debut as a professional – Le Court recorded her biggest win when a gruelling sprint finish on the final stage of the Giro d’Italia saw her become Africa’s first female rider to win a stage on one of cycling’s Grand Tours.

In April she hit the headlines once more, triumphing at the Liege-Bastogne-Liege race, again becoming the first African woman to do so.

“It was extremely special,” she said.

“I’m still quite taken back on what I have achieved for me personally, as a rider but also for my country, the continent I’m from and especially my team.”

Now comes her second attempt at the Tour de France, which starts in the historic walled town of Vannes in Brittany, north-west France, on Saturday.

Extended to nine stages for its fourth edition, the chance to compete for the famous yellow jersey alongside over 150 other riders is a tantalising prospect.

“The Tour de France is just next level compared to all the other races,” Le Court explained.

“The media attention, the crowds, the pressure, it is three or four times more intense!

“It is hard to explain unless you have been there, physically, to experience it. But at the same time it is a race that brings out the best in everyone.

“There are definitely a few stages that I have in mind which fit my profile.”

Le Court is well aware of the importance of staying healthy at these long, multi-stage races, especially after several female riders had to pull out of this year’s Giro d’Italia because of illness.

“There is no hiding at the Tour de France, which is something I personally really like.

“It shows what your work ethic as a rider really is.

“It is the dream race for all professional men and women cyclists. They all want to be there, they all want to win a stage.

“Even just making the team selection is a big achievement.”