Michael Krommydas was the first cyclist from Rhodes to win a medal in 1965. At age 62 he will now ride in the present day at Historica. The great Rhodian athlete belonged to the Colossus Cycling Club and was one of the greatest cycling talents on the island. He finished cycling at an early age after joining the merchant navy, but he was able to write his own unique story in the field of cycling. He was picked for the Hellas National Team in 1968 as a result of his many successes.
What stays with you after so many years involvement with cycling?
“Turning back the clock, I remember racing at the age of 16-17 against big names like Rigoutsos, Dolis, Dalli, Moustakis, Karamanidis, Dassounakis, Raftopoulos, Xykis, Priftis and many others. Of course, a distinct part beyond the racing is the friendships that have been preserved up until today. “
What were the best moments of your competition years?
“There were many. I finished second at the Athens-Kamena Vourla race in 1968. In the same year, I finished second in the 200 meters sprint at the Pan-Hellenic Championship in Rhodes and participated in the international tour of antiquities where I was honored in Sparta as the best international Greek. In 1973 with Colossus we won beat AEK. and we took the gold medal in the Team Pursuit together with Koudras, Panagos and Hadjiioannou. In 1975 we won again with Colossus against Panathinaikos and we got the gold in the Team Pursuit. “
What memories do you have about races in Rhodes?
“The stadium was always full. We are talking about an amazing atmosphere. The whole island was filled with banners connected to the races. The fans waited for the races in the summer and the track was full. It was something fantastic for everyone. This cycle track has a great history. It has seen many great athletes. “
Who would you like to see and meet again at Historica after so many years?
“I want to meet Vasilis Dalli and Achilles Xyki, as well as many other athletes. The most important thing with the races in Rhodes was that we were all friends, a group. We were expecting them every summer. “
What is your view of Historica?
“It’s something unique that should have been done many years ago. The 40-year-olds from that time are no longer alive but there are many written records of Rhodian cycling. The archives from that time must pass to the next generation. Historica will bring back many nice memories. “
