Rudolph Lewis (cyclist)

Rudolph "Okey" Lewis (1887-1933) was a South African cyclist, best known for winning the gold medal in the individual road race at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. He also won the bronze medal in the team road race event at the same Olympics.

Born in Waterberg, Transvaal, South Africa, Lewis began cycling at a young age. His nickname, "Okey," reportedly came from his frequent use of the phrase. Before the Olympics, he raced extensively in South Africa.

At the 1912 Olympics, the individual road race served as the basis for the team road race event; the times of the top four riders from each nation were aggregated to determine the team results. Lewis's individual victory, coupled with strong performances from his teammates, secured the bronze for South Africa.

After the Olympics, Lewis turned professional and continued racing in Europe, primarily in track cycling. He achieved moderate success as a professional, participating in numerous six-day races. He retired from professional cycling in the 1920s.

Rudolph Lewis died in 1933 at the relatively young age of 45. He is remembered as one of South Africa's earliest Olympic heroes and a pioneer in South African cycling. His Olympic gold medal remains a significant achievement in South African sporting history.