Theo de Rooij was a Dutch cyclist known for his prowess on the road, his tenacious spirit, and strategic mind. He was born in 1957 in the small, picturesque village of Harmelen in the Netherlands. He actually resides in Holten.
From an early age, Theo demonstrated a strong affinity for speed and endurance. Cycling through the flat, wind-swept landscapes of the Netherlands, he developed a blend of resilience and tactical acumen that would define his career. And also being one of the few riders who was capable to combine a high school and College education with his cycling ambitions. As he matured, his skills caught the attention of regional cycling clubs, and soon after, he turned professional in 1980 in the Belgian IJsboerke-team. Not before he successfully achieved his Business School degree. He joined the iconic TI-Raleigh team in 1983.
Theo de Rooij’s time with the Raleigh Cycling Team represented a significant phase in his cycling career, marking his emergence as a professional rider on the international stage. He was part of an era when Raleigh was a dominant force in professional cycling, particularly under the leadership of Peter Post, known for his rigorous and tactical approach.
Raleigh also introduced Theo to competition against some of the best cyclists of the time, which helped refine his tactical mind and racing skills. His stories of teamwork, resilience, and collaboration with the legendary riders of the era are part of the rich tapestry of Raleigh’s history.
One of Theo’s most memorable moments came during the 1985 Paris-Roubaix, known as the “Hell of the North” because of its arduous cobblestone sections and unpredictable weather. The race was notorious for its brutal conditions, testing the mettle of even the most seasoned riders. Theo launched a daring breakaway with several other riders, showcasing his ability to read the race and make decisive moves.
However, as fate would have it, the treacherous cobblestones and muddy terrain took their toll. After a high-speed chase and exhausting effort, he and his companion Francesco Moser were reeled in. Disappointed he continued to race and later stepped out of the race. The interview he gave John Tesh and CBS Television became world famous. His determination and grit impressed his team and the cycling community worldwide. Although he didn’t win, his heroic effort earned him respect and admiration.
Theo’s racing palmares include an overall victory at the Tour of Slovakia, stage wins in several major European races, such as the Tours of Germany, Switzerland, Norway, and Romandy. He stood on the podium at several Dutch national championships and finished the Tour de France seven times, including a stage win in the 1988 team time trial. In 1978, he was the University World Champion.
After retiring from professional cycling in 1990, Theo transitioned smoothly into roles that continued to influence the sport. Between 1991 and 1994 he served as a team director for Peter Post’s Panasonic and Histor Teams and from 1995 Rabobank, where he nurtured young talent and shared his extensive experience and knowledge, shaping the future generations of cyclists. The first 8 years as Jan Raas’ right hand, from 2004 until 2007 as General Manager.
Since 2010 Theo has his own cycling event in his home town named Theo de Rooij Classic, the first Saturday of June. An event for active cycling fans, promoting his province Overijssel as a beautiful region for cycling enthusiasts and supporting local charity.
He is Race Director of the Tour of Overijssel, a 1.2 UCI cycling race traditionally organized the first Saturday in May.
One of his other achievements was the design, development and production of a pedal assist electric bicycle starting in 2009: TDR Bikes. In 2011 he and his innovative international team won a Eurobike Gold Award for the most innovative electric bicycle of the fair that year. Unfortunately he had to stop the project in 2014.
We are thrilled to welcome Theo de Rooij to the Braveheart Cycling Fund Ride and Dinner this October.
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