[1][2] Théry started out as a mechanic which gave him an understanding of the need to drive according to the car's abilities, and nurse it home to victory.

Théry became renowned for his methodical documentation in a 'race log' of circuit details, road conditions, tyres, engine reliability, and car performance.

On 20 May 1904, Théry won the Gordon Bennett Elimination Trial at Argonne, France, driving an 80 hp (60 kW; 81 PS) Richard-Brasier.

[2][8] Théry's victory meant instant fame such that when he and Henri Brasier arrived in Paris they received an enthusiastic reception at the ACF premises, appearing on the balcony to acknowledge thousands of cheering Parisians.

[5] The 1905 Gordon Bennett Cup, as agreed by its rules, was held in France, the home country of its previous winner.

On 16 June 1905, Théry won the Gordon Bennett Elimination Trial in the Auvergne, France, driving a 96 hp (72 kW; 97 PS) Richard-Brasier.

[8] On 5 July, Théry and his riding mechanic Mueller won their second Gordon Bennett Cup, driving an eleven-litre 96Hp Richard-Brasier over 4 laps (548 km) of a circuit in the Auvergne mountains of France.

Michelin immediately adopted the name (Latin for "time to drink") to show his tyres could 'drink' spikes, nails, glass, etc.

The Post Office issued a stamp and the Paris Mint struck a commemorative medal representing Théry driving his Brasier.