Conversation so far:
When did Eddy Merckx first compete in cycling?
In summer 1961, Eddy Merckx bought his first racing license and competed in his first official race a month after he turned sixteen, coming in sixth place.
When did Eddy Merckx win his first race?
Eddy Merckx rode in twelve more races before winning his first, at Petit-Enghien, on 1 October 1961.
Who was Eddy Merckx's coach initially?
In the winter following his first amateur victory on 1 October 1961, Eddy Merckx trained with former racer Félicien Vervaecke at the local velodrome.
When did Eddy Merckx start competing professionally?
Eddy Merckx turned professional on 29 April 1965 when he signed with Rik Van Looy's Belgian team, Solo–Superia.
What were Eddy Merckx's parents' occupations?
In September 1946, the Eddy Merckx's family moved to Woluwe-Saint-Pierre, in Brussels, Belgium in order to take over a grocery store that had been up for lease.
What other sports did Eddy Merckx play besides cycling?
Eddy Merckx was a competitive child and played several sports, including basketball, boxing, football, and table tennis.
Did Eddy Merckx have siblings?
In May 1948, Eddy Merckx's mother Jenny Pittomvils gave birth to twins: a boy, Michel, and a girl, Micheline.

Question: Who was his biggest competition in his amatuer career?
Self-contained rewrite: Who was Eddy Merckx's biggest competition in his amatuer career?