In the 1960s and 1970s cyclist José Manuel Soto became a mainstay at the Vuelta Ciclista a Costa Rica stage race. In 1965 Soto finished third on three individual stages of the race, in addition to placing third overall in the general classification. After consistent form the following year he went on to win the 1967 edition of the race, as well as a stage at the 1968 race. His performances earned him a place on the Costa Rican Olympic team for the Mexico City Games, where he competed in both the road race and team time trial. Soto continued his good form by winning a stage of the Vuelta a Guatemala in 1969 before winning his second Vuelta Ciclista a Costa Rica title in 1971.
Costa Rica