From Alma’s relatives, we have received several photographs for the creation of digital copies. Some of them are included in this article.
In the 1930s, Alma Lieģe–Lassi worked at the Gustav Ērenpreis bicycle factory and trained passionately in cycling. In her very first competitions in 1929, she won first place in women’s cycling over an 8 km distance.
In 1936, with the support of Latvian State President Kārlis Ulmanis, the Unity Ride (Vienības brauciens) was organized. A total of 1,214 cyclists from all regions of Latvia took part, and in the women’s category the victory was claimed by Alma Lieģe (Lassi).
In the same year, Alma also won the 170 km Riga–Valka race, and her result (6 hours and 36 minutes) remained unbeaten for several years.
In 1947, Alma became the USSR champion in cross-country cycling. In 1948, at the USSR Championships in Moscow, she won first place in the 10 km cycling cross-country event, earning the title of Champion.
Alma was the first Latvian female cyclist to be awarded the title of Honored Master of Sport for outstanding achievements in sport. During her career, she won the republic champion title more than thirty times in track, road, and cross-country cycling.
It should also be noted that in the 1980s, members of RSB “Latvello” began organizing the Alma–Lassi traveling memorial trophy competition for veteran cyclists (in Mežaparks).
📸 Photo Gallery
Please note: copying, reproduction, or any form of use of the published photographs without written permission from the Cycling Sports Association “Latvello” is prohibited.
Comments, memories, and discussions related to these photographs can be viewed on the association’s official Facebook page under the respective post.
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