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L’Eroica, this year, was enjoyed by over seven thousand cyclists, first among them, Felice Gimondi who celebrated his seventy-fifth birthday in Gaiole.

A record number of participants and a record in terms of the thrills experienced by every one of the cyclists that took part. Over the next few days, we will find out more about the women, men, countries, first-timers, routes chosen, etc.

The L’Eroica cyclists set off at five this morning, armed with their heroic bikes, wool jerseys and lights affixed to their helmets or handlebars to break through the darkness on the way to the first climb of the day, along the torch-lined road leading up to Brolio Castle, before descending through the Ricasoli vineyards.

A postcard that the whole world has come to know and love because it is the first image that registers in the still sleepy eyes of the riders whose legs are already beginning to show the first signs of suffering and whose bikes must begin their interminable challenge on the white roads.

The most fearless cyclists, those who take on the most heroic 209 km, are only at the start of their journey. Before them, the most beautiful scenes that Tuscany has to offer.

From the Chianti region to the Crete Senesi passing by Montalcino, Buonconvento, Asciano, Murlo, Castelnuovo Berardenga, Dievole, Radda in Chianti and all the towns and villages of this absolutely magnificent territory, as recounted by the participants on their return from their “journey”, their adventure, however long or short, however difficult or challenging.

Everybody, without exception, with their hearts full of joy because they have experienced that “beauty of fatigue and thrill of the conquest” that have made L’Eroica famous throughout the world.

Here in Gaiole today, there was a huge local festival and a long line of smiling people, who were happy to have spent an exciting cycling weekend among the delights that Tuscany has to offer.

L’Eroica, as a sport, has become a central theme in the lives of thousands of people who look to the future, building on the strong heritage of the past.

Many sponsors, who share the universal values of L’Eroica, joined in the festival, including Bianchi, Brooks, Continental, Elite, Mavic, Santini, Steel Vintage Bikes, Toscana Promozione Turistica, Touring Club Italiano, Barone Ricasoli, Pantofola D’Oro, Mediolanum, Valdichiana Outlet, Autostrade per L’Italia, Lardini and Campagnolo.

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