[CYCLING] BAUGÉ, Alphonse. The 1907 Tour de France. Letters - Lot 122

[CYCLING] BAUGÉ, Alphonse. The 1907 Tour de France. Letters to the Editor. A rare first edition, featuring a beautiful dedication, of this account of the Tour de France by a leading figure in French cycling. Paris, published by “l’Auto,” 1908. In-12 format, ebony half-maroquin with corner pieces, spine with fine raised bands, gilt head, covers intact. Binding signed “Atelier Lardenchet.” 119 pp., 3 photographic reproductions, 7 separate illustrations. A sought-after first edition, devoted to the early years of the Tour de France. It is illustrated with compositions by Gonzague-Privat. A former cycling champion who became a journalist and then a sports director, Alphonse Baugé (1873–1938) offers his vivid account of the 1907 Tour de France in the form of letters addressed to his director. This copy is enhanced by a beautiful autographed dedication from the author: “To my good friend Talibard, in memory of the unforgettable hours we spent together during our expeditions… sporting and otherwise!” In excellent condition.