Rumor has it that cyclocross's story began as a detachment of steeplechase in early nineteenth-century France with Daniel Gousseau is credited as the inventor. As private in the French military (and possible member of the bicycle infantry), Gousseau would ride his bicycle in mixed terrain with his horse-bound friends. Wanting the concept to popularize, Gousseau wrote to the French Cycling Union in 1901 asking to organize a race. He argued that this new form of racing could prove exciting and would encourage military readiness and fitness. In 1902, his wish was granted and the first national cyclocross championship took place in France. However, it was not until Octave Lapize 1910 Tour de France win that cyclocross took off, as Octave Lapize
