Paul Deman holds a significant place in both cycling history and Belgian resistance efforts during World War I. As the first-ever winner of the Ronde van Vlaanderen in 1913, his name became legendary in Belgian cycling. However, his story took a dramatic turn during the war when he risked his life working as a courier for the underground resistance.
A Brave Courier in World War I
When World War I erupted, Deman chose to serve his country in a unique and dangerous way. He became a courier for the Belgian resistance, carrying secret messages between Belgium and the Netherlands. His role was critical in maintaining communication between resistance groups and allied forces.
By November 1918, Deman had completed 14 successful missions. However, on his 15th ride, he was captured by German forces. Arrested, jailed, and sentenced to death, his fate seemed sealed.
A Narrow Escape from Execution—Twice
While Deman awaited his execution, fortune intervened. The Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, effectively ending the war. Despite this, his troubles were not yet over. The British Army, which took control of the prison where he was held, mistook him for a German spy due to his accent. They, too, considered executing him.
Only after a letter from the Belgian authorities confirmed his true identity was Deman finally released. His harrowing experience during the war only added to his legacy, showcasing his resilience and courage.
Return to Cycling Success
Despite the hardships of the war, Deman returned to professional cycling and continued to achieve remarkable victories. In 1920, he won the prestigious Paris-Roubaix, one of cycling’s most grueling one-day races. Three years later, in 1923, he triumphed in Paris-Tours, further solidifying his status as an elite cyclist.
DO YOU LIKE THE UNIQUE HISTORY OF ONE-DAY RACES?
The one-day races, especially the Monuments (the five most prestigious one-day competitions) play significant role in road cycling history.
Here, on Vintage Road Cycling Stories blog, there are plenty exciting, fascinating, sometimes unbelievable stories from this part of the world of road cycling.
Take a look arond the blog, and read among other about the
The hardest Milano-Sanremo (1910)
The most controversial Paris-Roubaix finish (1936)
Roger de Vlaeminck's fifth Monument (Ronde van Vlaanderen 1977)
Or Bernard Hinault's epic solo victory in the snow (Liège-Bastogne-Liège 1980)
Also, if you'd like to read more about the current (Season 2025) one-day events, please visit Cycling Monuments 2025, a sideproject of PelotonTales blog.
WOULD YOU LIKE TO READ SOMETING DEEPER AND MORE COMPLEX?
The strange connection between road cycling history and the socio-cultural impact of the devastation of World War I is one of the most important topic of my more complex approach to road cycling history you can read about more on my Patreon.
