He (Patrick Plaine) most certainly was! Cranky, prejudiced, eccentric, what you will ... but when I think of a 'cycling hero' -- an image to aspire to -- he (PP) is what comes to my mind: "Sa vie c'était le vélo" (1,700,000 kms accrued).

Sadly, he died not long after this film was made (encounter with a farm vehicle while cycling). Obit. notice here:

http://tignon.andre.free.fr/report.php?id=1480

Fun Fact: Plaine rode PBP in 1971, finished it, then did it again (w/Paris Randonneurs) starting the Monday, finishing first of that group in 55:18. 2400kms Thursday-Thursday.