Cruising Spots Santa Monica

Hinault vs. Moser, hard as hell


At the turn of Years 70 and 80, are competing for stage two of the most popular cyclists of all time: Bernard Hinault and Francesco Moser. Both runners complete different characters have in common innate generosity and leadership. The most outgoing Sheriff, shy and reserved rate, the two control the group and win on all surfaces. Very strong time trial and the past, their was a more competitive rivalry that the media, partly because the French did not like the limelight and, like Merckx, seemed to run to beat himself rather than his opponents.

TOUR 1980, the first clash
Hinault is imposed at Romandie and for the first time the Tour has, against the favorites Saronni and Moser, fresh from the Roubaix hat-trick in a row. Vent Francis in the prologue of Genoa and Beppe, who wins a result of Imperia, Torino and Parma. Pisa in the time trial of the pink slips to Moser and leaves Marcussen partial success. It is not yet time to take the jersey and gives it to Orvieto Visentini. In the 14th stage, which ends at Roccaraso, goes on the run with the Rionero Sannitico Panizza, won the stage, but the shirt is the expert Panizza. In the arrival uphill Pecol Valzoldana, Panizza earns a few seconds but Bernard has devised a diabolical plan: in-Cles Sondrio Stelvio sends fleeing on his companion Jean Rene Bernardeau, joins him, the two come off at all and Sondrio 4 'on the pink jersey. Bernardeau wins stage, Hinault - after two tour - his first Giro. In just three years the trophy has three major stage races.

Hinault, NEW MERCKX
of Breton peasant, was born in Yffiniac November 14, 1954. Son of a worker of railways, works at a gas station to buy his first racing bike. Cycling comes after good results in athletics, especially in cross country. In 1972 Breton
sample and two years later he graduated French champion on the track in pursuit. Skip professional in 1974, the Gitane, led by compatriot Jean Stablinski, but the idyll with Salo 1962 world champion is not there. From next season becomes ds
Cyrille Guimard who has stopped running just at the Gitane. In his school, Bernard immediately understand the weight of friendships in the group, eight hits and minor successes he speaks as a talent.

FIRST LIEGE
The turning point came in 1977. Hinault wins by posting the Ghent-Wevelgem, then with a legendary action dominates the Liege-Bastogne-Liège. Cotes on rain, sleet. The rate is on the run for 12 miles and off champions like De Vlaeminck, Thurau, Merckx and Maertens and sprint to beat Dierickx.
spoken of him as an athlete from classic, though all abhor it when Brittany takes home the Giro and the Dauphiné the first of five Grand Prix of Nations time trial.

KING OF SPAIN AND FRANCE
announced in 1978 that will participate in stage races, Vuelta and Tour The team became Renault Gitane (the match will remain until 1983). He began by winning the Criterium International and the Paris-Nice touching. At the Tour of Spain dominates: 3'02''to Pesarrodona. From Vuelta Tour to His running style cunning and crafty he carries the nickname 'The Bleireau', Tasso.
the Tour everyone is waiting Thevenet, Kuiper, and instead Zoethmelk Bernard, who wears the jersey of national champion, blew up the house. The first time it settles in the time trial stage of S. Foye the Great. In the historic milestone of the Val d'Agen led the revolt of the runners for the mismanagement of departures and arrivals. The group arrived with him in the head and crosses the finish line on foot. Wins at Saint-Etienne, but it lingered in the standings. Alpe D'Huez Pollentier wins in polka dot jersey, the delmiglior climber, took the yellow jersey but is disqualified because positive for doping. The stage goes to Kuiper and Hinault, second part standings. Nancy is in the time trial twice, stage and jersey, and won his first Tour Zoetemelk placed before the Lord.
The season ends with an encore at the Grand Prix of Nations, this time in front of Moser.

WORLD 1978, MOSER FROM BEFFE KNETEMANN
For Adenau, Germany, another world decimated by rain. Not torrential as twelve months before in Venezuela, but accompanied by wind and cold: 4 degrees, in spite of August 27. 14 seems to already dark, the headlights light up the flagships.
on the circuit where he triumphed in 1927 the Italian Alfredo Binda, another blue can emulate: the defending champion Francesco Moser. The captain runs indoors, but breaks out his teammate Beppe Saronni cilccismo star in the world of Italian and World Time. Closes on
de Vlaeminck after 230 km, then the 11th lap, on the hardest climb, attacks. And they know his shots hurt. Knetemann respond. Then reacts Hinault, just won the Tour de France. Saronni stalls, knows he can win the sprint. Godefroot reports under the Belgians, but the three fugitives plunged Moser. Beppe does not like. 8 km from the end, part Knetemann. Francis takes the wheel and a 5-goal from the two have 30 "lead. The Netherlands does not change. At 40 meters from the finish Moser, skidding and a maximum effort by the rapportone will "sit", convinced he had won. Knetemann, that in the end he had promised not to do the sprint because they are too tired, puts it. For Francis is the second hoax rainbow after the infertagli Maertens from two years earlier. Bronze is the Dane Jorgen Marcussen, Saronni won the sprint for fourth place ahead of Hinault and Dutch Zoetemelk.


Hinault ON A TOUR TO
1979 is the year of a Tour to the "Grande Boucle", which includes the Pyrenees in the first week, traditionally reserved for the sprinters, is annihilated. Bernard wins Superbagnères, Pau, Brussels, Avoriaz, Dijion, Nogent sur Marne. On the Champs Elysees Zoethmelk respond to provocation, the two arrive alone and Bernard wins there too. Dutch trim 13 '(10' Joop had taken them to the postive all'antidoping). The FIRST

LOMBARDY, 1979
At the end of season play by winning his third GP of Nations (even before Moser) and his first Lombardy, where it goes on the run at 90 km to go, taking with him Contini, who, not or by changes in a hard sprint. Third is Battaglin.

THE LEGENDARY LIEGE AND FLOP TO TOUR
After two tours and the two before being allowed the Giro, then won three times in as many tries, the rate is awarded a soffertissima Liege. Rain, wind and cold did not prevent a lone flight of 60 miles, closed with over 9 'on the second, Kuiper. At
Tour '80 retires in the yellow jersey, in Pau. Officially problems in the knee, but the mystery remains.

ROUBAIX 1981, 25 YEARS AFTER A FRENCH
The 1981 Roubaix begins with a bet. In rainbow jersey Hinault (who hates the Queen of Paving stones, which he considered too dangerous) decides to win it. "I hate it, but I am French and it is right that race. The way I win then I will not again." No sooner said than done. They arrive in a sprint finish in fifth and world champion beats them all.
The French have not won since 1956, when he triumphed Louison Bobet. They start at 174. After a few hundred km you enter the real "Hell of the North". The most targeted by crashes and punctures are Hinault, Moser and Maertens. Raas falls and ends up in hospital. Moser
drilling a couple of times, it falls into the curve and is injured hip. In head-Lassalle Dclos door, falling twice and gives up.
In seven pedals on the front row: Moser, Hinault, De Vlaeminck, Kuiper, Van Calster, Demeyer and the young Italian Marco Cattaneo, and after testing extraordinary, in view of Roubaix spring. Ten km to go Hinault falls due to a dog. But Breton, never so determined in the "Queen of pavé, falls rapidly. In six
entering the velodrome: Hinault goes ahead and seek the solution of force, in foiling attacks straight De Vlaeminck and Moser. The French go crazy and cheer their champion. Twenty-five years later, a trans triumphs in Roubaix. Fantastic
De Vlaeminck, who nearly 34 years on the fifth successful, and centers the third place of honor. Moser, third, must say goodbye to the dream of winning four consecutive Roubaix. TOUR TO THE TRIS


the Tour goes to avenge the 80 and do trips. He won the prologue on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice, the time trial in Pau, detach one of Mulhouse and in all of the Tappone Peynet. Its also the last time trial, to Fontaney. Van Impe follows him on the podium, but more than 14 '.

THE WORLD SALLANCHES
A 1980 stratospheric Hinault and one of the more difficult routes, if not the most challenging ever designed for a world championship are the characteristics of the test rainbow of Sallanches 80: 92 out of 107 starters retired speak for themselves. The big loser is
Giuseppe Saronni, that the ct blue Alfredo Martini asked confidence and grades of captain only. Beppe instead wrecked, complicit in the cold and rain after 13 laps of the 20 planned. That year
Hinault had won the first of his three tours of Italy (on as many shares), while the Tour was withdrawn suddenly, after the stage of Pau, and wearing the yellow jersey. An escape in the night contours never fully understood. That Tour was won by Dutch Zoetemelk. At the World Cup but
Breton, however, the large ransoms. From the first lap in front. The Belgian Johan De Muynck attempt an attack, and is found attached to the wheel Hinault. And there is no running next to a true thickness, which does not see the French leader also. On lap 13, in response to an attack Mario Beccia, Hinault close race. Saronni and Moser, now out of the games, they withdraw. The French force on each step of the terrible climb Domency remain Baronchelli, Danish Marcussen and the young Scot Millar. Baronchelli, he hoped in the sprint, is the last to surrender, while the French went on to win at solitaire with 1'01 "ahead.
Comparisons with Merckx abound: what he wants, Hinault wins it. For the World 1981 in Prague, however, is "only" third behind Maertens and Saronni.

1982 THE TOUR TO A
in 1982 is found in the Renault team with Greg Lemond. The Frenchman wants back the Giro. Without big shots before the Tour is just the first date and already in the preliminary time trial team in Milan as the yellow jersey. He leaves his companions and Bonnet Fignon but then take it back in the time trial of Assisi. The yield to Moser, who takes her up to Campitello Matese, where the Breton if the resumes. Skip indemnify the Monte Grappa in the stage of San Martino di Castrozza but in the village of Boario on Cross Domain is under attack led by those of Bianchi - Contini, Prim and Baronchelli - with Van Impe. The stage is Contini, Hinault loses pink jersey. In short village next to Montecampione Briton escapes immediately, unplug Contini and wins. In the historic Cuneo-Pinerolo nobody attacks wins Saronni, the pink jersey is second. The victory in the final time trial, the Turin-Pinerolo, gives him the second tour, in front of Prim and Contini.

THE FOURTH TOUR
the Tour this arrangement is the same: beating time trial and defense in the mountains. Vince stages of Bale, the time trial of Martigues and S. Priest. Climb Orcieres as lace or the Alpe d'Huez do not care. In the last stage in Paris, beat all in the sprint. Tour wins fourth in five years, this time with a 6'21''on Zoetemelk.
In 1983, problems arise. Wins the Fleche Wallonne, but during the Vuelta has a knee problem. Spain takes the top amarillo in the stage of Castellar de N'Huc but the loss in Vielha in favor of Lejarreta. It seems over for knee pain. He won the time trial in Valladolid and approximates the mesh which is now at Fernandez. Avila resumes jersey and wins his second Vuelta. But his season ends there, the knee should be operated. In 1984
change team, choose a new French training where young people will not have the uncomfortable side (Fignon). La Vie Claire Terraillon the owner Bernard Tapie, with which it shares only the will to win. The knee is healed but the condition does not get better.
The tour and the second, annihilated by Fignon. He won the prologue of Montreuil, but defends himself against the clock to pay too much up trim and Laurent's 10 minutes.

"AUTUMN WORLD": Well, BRAVO, A
FROM 25.52 to 32.09 and the Giro di Lombardia '84
interview after the race at the end of the season gives ample signs of recovery by winning the trophy with Baracchi Moser, Grand Prix and Nations especially the Tour of Lombardy, where all off on the San Fermo and glides on Como. Upon arrival you time to look for the pursuers, it crosses the gaze of the patron Vincenzo Torriani that rejoices with him. Hinault is back. Announces that it will run for two years and 86 stop at the end.

DOUBLE THE LAST TOUR-TOUR
But first he wants the fifth Tour, even the third one-two with the Giro. The season is focusing on these two events. In team wanted Greg Lemond, convinced him to leave Renault, focusing on Fignon, thanks to contrattone offered by Tapie. Money well spent, lamericano will inherit a great squire before the grades.
the Giro, Bernard - again in perfect shape after two years without any major victories - Vent the Italians. The prologue was won by Moser announced the leitmotif of a duel that will end only in the last stage. But already in Selva di Val Gardena Breton offers a better mortgage on the race. Goes on the run with Visentini, Baronchelli, Seiz and Lejarreta. Finish second at the wheel and let Seiz Visentini take the jersey. In chrono-
Capua Maddaloni trims 53 "in Moser and dethrones Visentini. The tour is in his hands. Moser takes some subsidy the sprint, but Hinault is always there. Lack the big climbs. From Domodossola to S. Vincent on the Simplon and Great St. Bernard, nothing happens, ditto on the Gran Paradiso (the message is Valnontey). A time trial is to decide Lido di Camaiore-Lucca Moser ago but its only 7''on Hinault, who won his third lap with 1'08''to Francis. Lemond is the third in 2'55 ". During the final time trial is Bernard nails on the road and take the spit from fans in Moser. When minimized but will not be racing in Italy.

TOUR
At the Tour, the opponents are Lemond, his wingman, el'acerbo Delgado. He won the prologue of Plumelec but gave the jersey and not resumed even in the team time trial win his Vie Claire. In the time trial in Strasbourg (75 km) beat Roche 2'20''and compromises the Alps Tour and defends itself off Lemond in Morzine Avoriaz, where he leaves the win Herrera. Has 5 'on American, and the Pyrenees seem a formality. In the arrival of Saint-Étienne, in the sprint, falls and fracture the nasal septum. And suffer again. Luz Ardiden not breathing and to get to 4 'from Lemond not attacking him. Is that better sull'Aubisque, always escorted by Lemond, who will win 7 "the time trial at Lac de Vassivière. Hinault strikes five in the Tour - as Anquetil and Merckx - with 1'42''on Lemond, its ally, especially after Saint-Etienne .

AVENUE OF THE SUNSET
The 86 is his terminus. Despite his promise to help him win Lemond of the prior year to repay the aid, its goal is to become the first man to win six Tour Bernard, the time trial in Nantes and the Pyrenean stage to Pau in the yellow dress with 5 'to Lemond. The next day, wanting to overdo it, breaks down to Superbagnères. Lemond dethrones him in Serre Chevalier (the message was to the Col du Granon). The two bicker in the race but in the stage of Alpe d'Huez, come alone with the famous image of the embrace at the finish line. Hinault won the time trial in St Etienne on the Puy de Dôme nothing happens transcendental Lemond and Bernard anticipates more than 3 minutes. In Paris, Hinault was fourth in a sprint finish on the podium and salt with the shirt polka dot.
the world in the house of Lemond is marcatissimo (Mottet and Fignon and are run by itself) and the victory goes to Argentina. Leaves, as promised, when he would still have something to say. Hinault comes from technical adviser in the direction of the Tour, which is responsible for the ceremony.


BORN TO WIN
Five Tour de France and as many Grand Prix of Nations, three tours of Italy, two Vuelta of Spain, a World Cup, the shotguns in Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the Fleche Wallonne and the Tour of Lombardy Paris-Roubaix, the Ghent-Wevelgem, the Amstel Gold Race and the championship of France. He won a lot, Hinault, on and off.
Headstrong, stubborn, outspoken, Tasso - slip over the world because he knew - more than their opponents, put in line the organizers of the Tour, as when, in protest for the many long transfers, was the head of the group that in the last hundred meters off the bike and walk the line exceeded the finish line. Now that the organizers of the Grande Boucle is a part, remains one of the most popular former champions, even if sometimes it was more to love Italy and its France.

SAMPLES FROM THE FUTURE
Moser also was one of the riders most loved by the public. As Hinault won on all surfaces and the three wins at the World Roubaix, from the classic to the Giro, and has changed the modern cycling. Francis Bike and preparation that led to the revolutionary triumph in the time trial and Record hour trip. Bernard studying, meticulously, with the Swiss trainer Paul Moser Koechli as he did with Conconi, the winter training to stay in shape all season, and new technologies to maximize the potential of the sample Breton.
Rivals on the streets and in the laboratory: Moser, Hinault, true champions who could improvise but leaving nothing to chance.

CHRISTIAN GIORDANO

How Long Does Silicone Adhesive Take To Dry

Moser vs Saronni, so different so equal


ENEMIES FOREVER
dualism between Francesco Moser and Giuseppe Saronni has characterized our cycling of 70-80 years and divided the fans as not happened since Coppi and Bartali.
Born into families of riders, seems made to be both opponents were the opposite of each other. Cycling as in life. Yet, in some ways, they were also more similar than they were willing to admit: with pure class, unable to let go, generous and prima donnas, able to win on every field, on every run, in stages or online, at any time of the season. More powerful and instinctive Checco, faster and smarter Beppe: battled against each other for a decade and have given millions of passionate emotions are impossible to forget.

1979 THE TOUR OF CONSECRATION
The duel-Moser Saronni, just bloom, is already at the top. Moser strong party, won the preliminary time trial in Florence and the third stage, still against the clock: the Naples-Caserta. But already in Vieste Saronni (the village where he won) he is wearing, wearing the clothes of the old sprinter. As they used to be, that is powerful and agile sprint uphill. Overtaking is right on the favorite from the adversary: \u200b\u200bthe time trial, in S. Marino, and the final time trial Cesano Maderno-Milano. Saronni, only twenty-one, wins his first Tour of Italy.
For the sample of Novara had started the season with three consecutive second places: at the Sanremo (behind De Vlaeminck), in the Flèche Wallonne (behind Hinault) and in the Tirreno-Adriatico (After the Norwegian Knudsen). That the preparation was well calibrated as evidenced by the victory in the Championship of Zurich, just before Moser, and the Tour de Romandie, won big on Gian Battista Baronchelli. Who is good for the Tour de Romandie hardly misses Italy. And when part of the Giro, May 17, Saronni is a favorite despite his young age, little experience and the track designed to fit Moser.
addition, Saronni is not considered mature enough to win a race so tough and long three weeks. The facts seem to agree with the skeptics since the prologue, which flies with the Trentino and Beppe is now in pink. Three days after Francis also dominates in the time trial in Naples, but Saronni, third, not Vieste is spring and, indeed, after a marathon 223 km long, it beats the sprint. Three more days and the time trial Rimini-San Marino limelight hierarchies. The win Saronni, who won the pink jersey. Moser even reach the podium.
The battle, meanwhile, also because of the statements of the protagonists of fire, splitting the Italian fans.
Moser does not like to attack the mountain, has no choice but to win at home over the mountains and launches the first thrust stage with the wonderful company in Pieve di Cadore in Trento, between two wings of a mob. Saronni, however, resisted and remains in pink. Two days after the end, the race appears decided. At the last village has the luxury of winning the time trial from Cesano in Milan. The Tour is his, Moser second in the standings, separated at 2'09 ". The great rivalry, capable of bringing millions of Italians on the streets, is the apex. Yet, the two great enemies from allies to end the season winning the trophy together Baracchi. Beppe then also win the Three Valleys Varesine, closing at a very magical season.

MOSER, born to run Born in Palu
of Jupiter (Trento) June 19, 1951, outstanding long-distance rider and chrono, a professional from 1973 to 1988, has collected 276 career victories.
Fourth runner of a family of cyclists - three of his eleven brothers, Enzo, Aldo and Diego, were professionals - Francesco Moser occupies a prominent place among greats each time by virtue of the extraordinary results that has managed to secure thanks especially to the extraordinary physical gifts, but also to the professionalism, intelligence and dedication to cycling.
Francesco Moser left school at thirteen to work in the fields. Cycling began to devote himself seriously ripe age, to 18 years. After the amateur ranks of Bottegone and participation in Monaco '72 Olympics, turning pro in 1973 and graduated in 1975 Italian champion in Pescara, on the circuit of the Trofeo Matteotti.
A Moser 24 years is presented for the first time the Tour de France in 1975, he won the prologue of Charleroi and the stage and wearing the shirt of Angoulême yellow, then held for seven days. With his attacks in the first stage of the race undermines the great Eddy Merckx in the Alps has to give the Tour the Frenchman Bernard Thevenet. In France, Francis became an idol in the Tour but you will not see anymore. Ostuni
the world comes second in the 1976 road test, but behind the Belgian Maertens won the gold medal on the track of the chase. Twelve months later, it is also the rainbow jersey of the professions on the road: the winner under the deluge of San Cristobal, Venezuela. With the jersey of world champion gets, in 1978, 39 wins including the first of his three consecutive Paris-Roubaix.
Strong, fast and able to sprint, Moser highlights for his combativeness and intertwined over the years a duel with Joseph Saronni that divides the supporters of the Italians. During his fourteen years of career wins prestigious classical erie ins such as Paris-Tours (1974), two rounds of Lombardy (1975, 1978), the Flèche Wallonne (1977), the Championship of Zurich (1977), the Ghent -Wevelgem (1979). The trophy has almost all the major online courses and Italian stages and a series of partial victories in the Tour of Italy. As a group they call the "Sheriff" as in a group that law and governs the race as only great champions can do. As
ungenerous and limited to the reputation of Frank Moser, however, is mainly linked to the Record Time. In January 1984 Part groped for Mexico for the world record in deep sea, which for 12 years, belongs to the "Cannibal" Eddy Merckx.
Her decline had begun the previous season, a little more than thirty years. The reasons for a new challenge instead, regenerate, "If in life you try something new, then what field do?" Is the motto at the base of his new, unique in many ways, company.
Followed by a specialized team under the supervision of Professor Francesco Conconi, a professor and then rector of the University of Ferrara, Moser brings the world hour record at 50.080 km. Four days later the better: 51.151 km.
The success opens the door to a scientific revolution and technology in the world of cycling. With Moser are introduced innovations in nutrition, training practices, apparel race (with a special suit and helmet aero), techniques of construction of the bicycles, designed in a wind tunnel equipped with revolutionary wheels and lenticular the slopes of the handlebar made "on the horns of an ox."
Ten years later, already retired for several seasons, Moser returned to Mexico to challenge the record again, then held by Britain's Chris Boardman. Realizes the extent of 51.840 quarter mile in less than necessary, but enough to beat his previous performance. Returning
activity on the road, the magic 1984 he won the Milan-Sanremo and the Giro d'Italy gives rise to a bitter struggle with Laurent Fignon. The French favored the mountains, pull the pink jersey two days before the conclusion of the race. In the last stage, the time trial ending at the Arena di Verona, Moser wins Giro stage, and with extraordinary proof, favored by bike from the lenticular wheels. Finally, it wins the stage race on the podium five times in very different rooms.

1975, THE ONLY TIME THE TOUR
Francis and the Tour have never loved. There has participated only once, in '75, after giving up the Tour of Italy which ended on the Stelvio. Yet even in the "Grande Boucle" was soon starring with two stage wins, a week and the yellow jersey in seventh place despite the fall in the Pyrenees.

LAPS BEFORE THE GREAT RIVALRY
1976 (59th edition) - lyricism of the "old" for Gimondi, who at 34 wins for the third time the Tour of Italy. Of just above 19 "the Belgian De Muynck. Third is Bertoglio, last year's winner, who lost the place of honor in the decisive time trial Arcore. Moser was fourth in 1'7".

1977 (60th edition) - Everyone is waiting for Moser, but he won the Belgian Michel Pollentier, gregarious Freddy Maertens, which dominates even the most expensive in the specialty of Trentino: it requires, in fact, in the time trial of Binago, penultimate stage. The first portion is a duel between the sprinters Maertens and Van Linden, but they ruin the ground in a tremendous sprint at Mugello, and are forced to retire. The stage victory went to Marino Basso.

1978 (61st edition) - Fight of the first sprinter of the mountains, as always: great sprint Van Linden on Thurau in Novi Ligure. The next step is shown for the first time Giuseppe Saronni, with the first victory in the Giro sprint of La Spezia. Saronni win more in Benevento and Ravello. Sets in the duel with Moser that takes over the stage of Siena, the time trial in Poggibonsi, Solar-Cavalese. The number of climbers "Unfortunate" is continued by Panizza (first on the legendary Monte Bondone). Among the sprinters check Pierino Gavazzi: victorious in the last stage, the traditional catwalk in Milan.

EVEN ONE DAY MAN
Two classic won positive for a medical examination of the opponent who had beaten: Karstens in the Paris-Tours '74 and '77 Maertens in Flèche Wallonne. How, thanks to victory in the Italian league (the third after those of '75 and '79), 81 to Compiano replied to those who gave over, equally, by harnessing the team Enervit postagli provided by Dr. Sorbini did and in the most superb in '84 with the advent of the lenticular wheel the hour record by winning the San Remo and the Giro.

1981-83 REBIRTH
from 0:35:58 to 37.55 Paris-Roubaix 81 and the first clash with Hinault, Montecatini-Salsomaggiore, Giro di Toscana 82, Tour of Italy

MOSER GOLDEN YEAR: 1984 00:37:56
from the end: the hour record, the Milan- Sanremo, the Vuelta, the Tour of Italy and duel with Fignon, and final victory parade photos with the Arena di Verona.

THE DOUBLE TIME RECORD
his career, a beautiful and fruitful for a decade, seemed to close itself in an opaque manner when, in preparing a completely new and almost futuristic because she studied and then putting into practice scientific and technical achievements who then gave a turn to cycling, won the hour record in bringing two successive tests, 19 and 23 January 1984 on the concrete runway of the Centre of Mexico City, from 49.431 to Merckx (1972) first and then to 51.151 km 50.808.
not only build on the excellent condition of the recovered, he was able, within a few months of his best year, adding to the trophy two hits long pursued: the Milan-Sanremo and the Giro d'Italy (after a thrilling duel with Laurent Fignon won the final, unforgettable time trial in Verona). A return to the top
imperious and Moser has repaid the generosity with which he had been campaigning, sometimes oblivious to his opponents to prepare the fertile ground, particularly all'arcirivale Saronni with which for years has given rise to a hot duel that has increased the popularity of cycling.

THE RUNNER: THE CHECCO GENEROUS, EVEN TOO
passista Big, powerful runner has often suffered from the great mountains even the toughest climbs of the classic races have been at the forefront. Preparing a completely new style and applying scientific and technical achievements, which have then given a turn to cycling, she won Record time taking it in two subsequent trials - the 19 and 23 January 1984 on the concrete runway of the Sports Centre Mexico City - from 49.431 to Merckx ('72) first and then to 50.808 to 51.151.
Not only that but after a few months could to add to its trophy two great victories that were still missing, those in the Milan-Sanremo and the Giro d'Italy. Along with Saronni, his great rival, gave birth to a duel for some years that burned hot and has increased the popularity of cycling.
'77 is the rainbow jersey in the road test in San Cristobal after wearing the standard of tracking the previous year to Monteroni. Men from classical Moser made the Paris-Roubaix the symbol of its exceptional quality: three consecutive wins nel'78, '79, '80, two second places ('74 and '76) and two-thirds ('81 and '83) . He participated in the '75 Tour and here are just as pointed star with two stage wins, yellow jersey in one week and the seventh-place finish despite a fall in the Pyrenees. Two classic
has risen to the positive doping control at the opponent who had beaten: the Netherlands Gerben Karstens in the Paris-Tours '74 (as happened in '73 in favor of Lombardy Gimondi) and Freddy Maertens in the Flèche Wallonne '77 (the same thing happened to the Belgian in the Tour of Flanders, where it had already been beaten by Roger De Vlaeminck), the latter just before Sarooni.
how, thanks to victory in the Italian league (the third after those of '75 and '79), 81 to Compiano replied to those who gave over, just as - by harnessing the team Enervit postagli available Dr. Sorbini - and made in the most superb in '84 (when already announced his resignation) with the advent of the lenticular wheel the hour record by winning the San Remo and the Giro. And to complete his dominance of the king Time October 3, 1986 brought the record to 49.801 km Vigorelli (better than it itself had established the previous week with 48.543 km). In 1987 he obtained a world record time on a track covered with 48.637 in the Olympic velodrome in Moscow and 88 in Stuttgart, the best yet: 50.644 km.

MOSER, OTHER SUCCESSES
The first and longest phase of her career has allowed Francis to win, beautifully, in the rainbow jersey '77 In the road test in San Cristobal, Venezuela, after wearing the standard of tracking the previous year to Monteroni. Only an incredible lightness
prevented him from sample confirmed road in '78 where he finished 2 nd at the Nürburgring (as it did in Ostuni in '76).

WORLD 1976, the prank of OSTUNI
For Freddy Maertens those from '76 to 80 years were the best. A Ostuni '76 is the strongest and he collaborates with the fellow Merckx had denied him in '73, when his contribution was not allowed Gimondi Maertens beat Barcelona in the sprint at the finish line after taking the wheel well of two Belgians Ocaña and English on the slope of Montjuic.
A Ostuni, in the final lap, when Maertens Moser and take advantage on Zoetemelk and Conti, from behind Merckx sure that nobody falls on the tread. For the four divided up into two pairs, it is easy to Maertens and the finish is almost a joke to beat the generous Moser who had left the race and was duped by false complaints of fatigue of the Belgian sprinter. Third comes Tino Conti.

WORLD 1977 THE REVENGE IN SAN CRISTOBAL
the first year as a professional, Saronni with honor as his first national team: the last third of the race, with a clever move in the narrow bed in a large drop, which then releases Moser resolve the race. Beppe come ninth.
Moser is in form. When Biton is detached from the group, Thurau stops pulling. A 5.5 km and a half from the finish, drilling Moser, warns coach Martini, Thurau, but so that no one notices. I replace the wheel with meccaninici time Formula One: 5 / 2, Francis lost a hundred yards, but resumed after a German mile. Less than three kilometers from the arrival, the two have an advantage of 3'15 "and Martin Moser orders not to shoot. They arrive at the finish line to 25 per hour, playing the world with a war of nerves, since nobody wants to go to finish first and perhaps mocked comeback as had happened the year before, to Ostuini at the same Moser Maertens. But this time Checco is too strong. Three hundred meters and the sprint against you decide that Moser is not something for anyone. In the heat of the sprint after the arrival of Francesco ends against the photographers. But it's finally a world champion. The third step of the podium for the second consecutive year, another blue: on this occasion, Franco "Heart Of The Matter" Biton.

1978 WORLD, ANOTHER insult KNETEMANN
For Adenau, Germany, another world decimated by rain. Not torrential as twelve months before in Venezuela, but accompanied by wind and cold: 4 degrees, in spite of August 27. The fourteen already seems dark, the headlights light up the flagships. On
circuit where he triumphed in 1927 the Italian Alfredo Binda, another blue can emulate: the defending champion Francesco Moser. The captain runs indoors, but breaks out his teammate Beppe Saronni cilccismo star in the world of Italian and World Time. Closes on
de Vlaeminck after 230 km, then the 11th lap, on the hardest climb, attacks. And they know his shots hurt. Knetemann respond. Then reacts Hinault, just won the Tour de France. Saronni tempreggia, knows he can win the sprint. Godefroot reports under the Belgians, but the three fugitives plunged Moser. Beppe does not like. 8 km from the end, part Knetemann. Francis takes the wheel and a 5-goal from the two have already 30 seconds ahead. The Netherlands does not change. Never. At 40 meters from the finish Moser, skidding and a maximum effort by the rapportone will "sit", convinced he had won. Knetemann, which in the end he had promised not to do the sprint because they are too tired, puts it. For Francis is the second hoax rainbow after the infertagli Maertens from two years earlier. Bronze is the Dane Jorgen Marcussen, Saronni won the sprint for fourth place in front of the French and Dutch Zoetemelk Hinault.

OUR "Monsieur Roubaix
Man from classic Paris-Roubaix has the symbol of its exceptional quality: three wins in a row, in '78, '79, '80 (Record shared with French Octavie Lapize, winner in 1908, 1909 and 1910), two second places ('74 and '76) and two-thirds ('81, '83). Best has made only "Monsieur Roubaix, the Belgian Roger De Vlaeminck: 4 hits for him, even if not consecutive.

THE
after the race his last race is the Baracchi Trophy in September 1987. After retiring from professional dedicated to the campaign as a wine producer and grower of apples. Continue to stay in cycling as a collaborator of the RCS, the company organizing the Tour of Italy, and with a successful career as a producer of bicycles. He has devoted himself to politics, he held various positions in the administration Province of Trento, serves on the board of professional UCI (International Cycling Union) and in 2001 was a candidate for president of the Italian Cycling Federation.


SARONNI, STEP THAT HURTS
Giuseppe Saronni, for all Beppe, was born in Novara September 22, 1957. He, too, as Moser is a family of cyclists. The brothers Alberto and Antonio play competitive sports, Anthony is Italian cyclo-cross champion. After the usual rigmarole in the junior categories in 1977, just 20 year old, is turning to professionals, including many successes achieved at once: the Giro del Friuli, the trophy Pantalica Varesine the Three Valleys and the Giro del Veneto. Onset in a Classical North, the Flèche Wallonne, finished second behind Francesco Moser, beginning a rivalry that will continue uninterrupted until 1986.
The excellent results of his rookie season lead the Italian national team coach Alfredo Martini for the world to convene in San Cristobal, Venezuela, which will make a significant contribution to the victory of his rival Moser. Itself a more than flattering ninth, placing not bad for a freshman.
In 1978, the SCIC, Beppe begins to get serious. He is 21 years old and already runs with the determination and the decision of the veteran: Pantalica Trophy and won the Tirreno-Adriatico in preparation for the San Remo, then run the "Spring Classic" to win it. It would also succeed if it were not for the wild De Vlaeminck. Next, he shoves Coppa Agostoni, Giro di Campania, Giro di Puglia, stages 3 and 5 th place in the standings in the Tour of Italy, a result which is imposed as a runner for stage races as well as the classic line. At the Nürburgring
world, won by Knetemann on Moser, Saronni is a close 4th, continuing its march toward the approaching world title.
In 1979 he began a series of victories that lasted until 1983 and that will Saronni on the roof of the world, shared with the hero beyond the Alps Bernard Hinault.
The season starts with two second places, bitter at the Milan San Remo, yet behind his nemesis De Vlaeminck, and yet the Arrow, this time behind Hinault. From then on only victories in the Tour de Romandie, the Midi Libre, in 3 stages and in the overall standings of the Tour, won on Moser, relegated to over 2 ', the Championship of Zurich, the Gran Premio di Camaiore, the Three Valleys Varese, the Trofeo Baracchi paired with - listen, listen - Moser. According to Paris Tours, a bit disappointed 'at the World Valkenburg, won by Raas, where square 8 °. In total, 29 wins are.
1980 is almost a copy of '79, but with a different jersey, that of GIS. Beppe is still 2nd to Sanremo (a type of subscription) behind Pierino Gavazzi, but wins the Fleche Wallonne, perhaps the Belgian classic he most loved, before to Nilsson and Hinault. It is also the first Pantalica Bernocchi Cup, the Tour of Campania, Larchwood, Varese in the Three Valleys and the Tour of Puglia. The Tour of Italy stage win improves the record of seven in a year, and 7 th place overall. Also won the Italian championship, only defect of a great season, withdrawing to the World Championship Sallanches, France, swept up by Hinault Baronchelli. At year end, however, the successes are 30.
But his thirst for victory is not satisfied. And if it is true that in 1981 rifiata a bit ', the next two years is unleashed. Many victories in 81 (24, including Bernocchi, Camaiore, Etna, Laigueglia and Romagna), and some regret, as the 3rd place in the Tour of Italy (with 3 stage wins) lost 50 'behind Battaglin and Prim, and 2nd at the World Cup in Prague, where he was beaten in a sprint finish by Maertens. The so-so two years ago
a prelude to the two best seasons of his career, with both mesh Colnago Del Tongo.
The 1982 opens with a win at the Tirreno-Adriatico and Pantalica Trophy, continued with the Giro del Trentino, with the 6th place in the Tour of Italy over three stages, with victory in the Tour of Switzerland, in the Coppa Sabatini in Agostoni and Coppa Milano-Torino. The highlight, however, comes at the end of the season: the World Championship course in England, in what will go down in history as the "shot at Goodwood" Saronni comes out of the first group behind the goal and leaves behind Lemond and Kelly finally won the World Cup after a 2nd and a 4th place. Then he closed the season winning in rainbow jersey, the Lombardy. It's win number 34 and closes an extraordinary year.
1983 was more moderate, but still winning. Finally reach the victory at Milan-San Remo, in front of Raas and Bontempi, after 3 second places and we also try to Liege, but you have to settle for second place, mocked by the Dutch Rooks he plays in advance. Then came an encore in the Tour of Italy, a tour for him, "Easy Easy", filled with trials and with very few mountains in the final standings before the Visentini Brescia, who will take revenge three years later, and the Spaniard Fernandez. After a 1984
of anonymity, also submerged by overflowing the return of Moser, we expect a Saronni eager for redemption. Instead, after seven seasons at most, and just 28 years, the sample seems to have no more stimulation.
in 1985 gave him 10 victories, including the Pantalica and second stages of the Giro. The next year, try to raise the head count every Visentini in the pink jersey, then lost in the stage of Foppolo, third at the World Cup in Colorado Springs, behind the blue Moreno Argentin and French Charly Mottet. But it is the swan song.
From '87 to '90, the year of withdrawal, he won a few races and all second level: the Milano-Vignola 87, the Three Valleys Varesine in 1989 and little else. Closes his career in 1990 with victory in the Tour of the Province of Reggio Calabria.
In all 194 villages of 85 wins, including stage races (24 in the Giro) and 49 circuits. Absolute value of an athlete who has left an indelible mark in the Italian cycling but, unfortunately, the decline began too early, before age 30, a factor common to all cycling champions completed too quickly.

THE RUNNER SARONNI
Born in Novara (September 22, 1957) sprinter and long-distance rider, was professional from 1977 to 1990 with 195 victories. Child prodigy in the minor categories (where he collected 127 statements, won national titles, was blue) was authorized the change of category to 19 ½ years and less than 22 had assets of victory in the Tour of Italy to confirm its true class.
rare class of natural talent, touch the highest levels of performance in the 14 months starting from February '82 to June '83. At that time central Tour of Sardinia, Milan-Turin, Tirreno-Adriatico, Giro del Trentino, Tour of Switzerland, Coppa Agostoni, World Championship at Goodwood, Giro di Lombardia, Milan-San Remo, Tour of Italy.
But then the "machine" Saronni jams. In '85 he won a stage in the Ruta del Sol and a week to Sicily, then collect trophies Pantalica, Circuito di Noto, a stage at the Giro di Puglia and two in the Tour of Italy. 86 won the Circuit of Pietra Ligure, the Week of Sicily, the circuit S. Donà di Piave, two stages in the Giro di Puglia and Baracchi Trophy. Nel'87 a stop at the Tirreno-Adriatico, the circuit of Pietra Ligure, the Parma-Vignola, a 88 stop at the Ruta del Sol, the Giro di Puglia, Three Valleys Varesine; nel'89 a stop at the Ruta del Sol nel'90 the Tour of the Province of Reggio Calabria.
On the track, which has learned the cunning and speed in his training, stands out in 2 Six Days of Milan, in 1980 (with Sercu) and 1982 (with Pijnen).

1980 THE TOUR CONFIRMED
won the Tour the year before means that all eyes are fixed on him. Beppe party to win and victories Tours to Campania and Puglia and back to the Three Valleys Varesine bode well. Hinault, however, is too strong and the first stake is at once the center. It will happen twice more. Saronni won seven stages, including that from Spar in Cles which removes the sooddisfazione to beat the great Breton.
's success comes at the prestigious Fleche Wallonne, where Hinault was third. The season closes with the title of Italian champion, won the sprint up and Battaglin Baronchelli

1981,
lean year at the Giro, Saronni is third at 50 "from the winner, the irresistible Battaglin, despite the introduction of subsidies intended by patron Vincenzo Torriani. Saronni won two stages and together with the Swedish Tommy fight to the end for the pink jersey, which escapes by a whisker last time trial population. The same happens to the world, but in spite of an Italy in a sprint finish and strong.

WORLD 1981 THE PRAGUE
mockery of the blue to the '81 World Prague is a great team: Gavazzi, Battaglin, Contini, Baronchelli and, of course, Moser and Saronni. And the tactic is the right one, with the first flight of ten men, to pull Battaglin Gavazzi and to act as a fast wheel. The treads dig a margin of 2'20 "but the group reaction was immediate. You get the sprint. Baronchelli, which has the task of opening the way for Saronni, yields, and Beppe is discovered too soon, to 350 meters, and in the wrong position, with hands on the levers of the brakes. Take strong, but drops to 50 meters from the finish. Takes advantage of the usual Maertens, reborn in the Tour, and with the last shot of surpassing the kidneys of 5 cm. For the Belgian will be the last statement. For the blue dress rehearsal for next year. In third place Hinault. In the sixth, which Moser had jumped the chain. Beppe vacation for the sole satisfaction comes at the Giro di Romagna, won the big rival.

1982 THE COLLECTED
season of revenge by winning a hard-fought start to the great edition of the Tirreno-Adriatico, before rising and abstraction Knetemann Greg Lemond, and his first Tour of Switzerland. In the Giro but Hinault is confirmed outside class, centering its coupled Giro-Tour. Saronni for sixth place in the standings and three partial statements, including the Tappone Cuneo-Pinerolo which precedes Hinault and Prim.

WORLD 1982, the shooting of GOODWOOD
the eve, during the technical meeting, coach Martin warns the Blues: Let us pretend not to be here at Goodwood, but in Prague remember our mistakes last year? Well you will not have to repeat. And it does not happen.
The arrival, on top of a hill about 700 meters to 4-5%, it is best suited to Saronni. Just then work for him. Even Moser provides the historical rival, rode a perfect race.
Maertens Hinault and stand out. The blue Chinetti, Masciarelli and Baronchelli do a great job of coverage. Moser leads the last lap to beat a rhythm on his head so high off the bud any ambition to escape. Upon the recommendation of Italy Martini coach runs the defense to get to the sprint Saronni. That comes, timely, and loud. The shot of Goodwood: go down in history as one of the most exciting and athletic moves to higher value seen in modern cycling. In the home straight
good work of English Marino Lejarreta. We then test the elegant American Jonathan Boyer. Rettlineo Saronni expects the final point to steeper and there, three hundred meters from the finish, part. Beppe is the only one to hold the largest multiplies: shoot with the 53x15. At 150 feet, splashing away as launched from a catapult and surprise the group, looking for the sprint. After the silver won last year, mocked by the usual, very clever man, Belgian sprinter Freddy Maertens, is finally gold for the blue, in front of Kelly and Irish American Greg Lemond.
Like Italy soccer, even the pedal is world champion. Martini and his worked in the footsteps of the great football coach, Enzo Bearzot, and the unforgettable national on July 11, beat 3-1 at the Bernabéu in Madrid West Germany. For
Saronni, however, the year will be tarnished death, which occurred in summer, Carlo Chiappa, his coach and discoverer. A grief that will deeply mark Beppe and his future career.

THE TOUR OF ITALY 1983
The Tour Saronni. Vince stages of Todi with a tumultuous sprint with Moreno Argentin, the time trial in Parma, confirming the ancient formula of the sprinter who is strong and uphill time trial, won the second half-stage of the 16th village in Bergamo, with a wonderful sprint more about Argentina .


TOUR 1984 (67th edition) - This is the Tour de Moser. Francis is saved to Paestum from a general fall, after the finish line, is put to the whip Fignon on the climbs. Fresh off the record time and the bike wheels with special lens (and the new "methods" designed by Professor Conconi), Fignon fashion show in the pink jersey in the spectacular final time trial, by Soave in Verona.

SARONNI, OTHER VICTORIES
12:23:38 From 33.43 to beat Milan-Sanremo in which Moser, the Six Days of Milan, arrives various Italian races, the Fleche Wallonne 80, World 87, last lap victory in Reggio Calabria. Milan-Turin, 90, last race.

1984 and 1985, a strange CRISIS
In ten months Saronni achieved successes that are worth a career: World, Sanremo and Giro. Then, for two seasons, left-handed. Beppe has changed its way of running. Appears unwilling and perhaps uncomfortable in the environment. For some it is a runner over. And of course the year Magic Moser does not help.

1986, BACK IN PINK
The duel in pink'm Visentini is perhaps his swan song. Beppe is second at 1'02 "behind the Brescia who avenged the defeat three years earlier. Even without the sprint of the best days seem Saronni in recovery as confirmed by the World Colorado Springs, finished third and 9 "from the winner, his teammate Moreno Argentin. That year, however, reach only the week and the Sicilian Baracchi Trophy.


1987, GOODBYE TO
Saronni for 1987 was another disappointing year. His only participation in the Tour de France ended with the withdrawal. The following year, with the pride of sample that will not give up, wins the Giro di Puglia and, for the fourth time, the Three Valleys Varesine. By now you realize you have started the decline and no longer be competitive in the Tour convinced him to leave. This looks like Eddy Merckx: If you can not fight for victory, and so better to leave in 1990 after winning the Giro della Calabria, Beppe stops running.
not leave cycling, though. From commentator to successful sports manager, Beppe's life is bound in glove to his passion for two wheels. Today in Damiano Cunego, Lampre rider's, many shall review the talent. What a great racer in one-day races and stages, capable of winning in the mountains as the sprint. And to divide the fans. The worthy heir, however, remains to find a Moser.

THE RELATIONSHIP WITH MOSER
"The races were so long, there was the time for four beats with Visentini and Contini, perhaps to make fun of Moser. It's true: I had the ability to send Frank into a rage. Not know why, I only know that I was good ... In due proportion to the interest it aroused our rivalry was the last to approach that of Coppi and Bartali. Saronni's words illustrate how best can not be that for a decade has been the rivalry of the Italian cycling. And that she could not be more fertile ground of the Tour of Italy. The Lombard Giri won it twice ('79 and '83), Moser only in 1984, in all cases with the permission of Bernard Hinault, the Breton who came to Italy to win three times in as many editions of the Giro: those of ' 80, 82 and 85.

THE LAST GREAT RIVALRY
Italian cyclist Francesco Moser is the most successful. Strong evidence in one day (his trophy has the largest classical), has also worn the jerseys of the most prestigious stage races. Despite its known bounds on the big climbs, it was imposed on all surfaces thanks to fighting spirit and the innate ability to manage the team.

CHRISTIAN GIORDANO

Publix Roast Beef 1/2 Sub

Gimondi vs Merckx, virtually Friends


RIVALS FOREVER
cycling and the Tour of Italy in particular have always lived a great rivalry. From the origins of duels, between the French and constant Girardengo Henry Pelissier, Belloni with Tano as the odd man out, to those of the twenties, in the same Girardengo - the first champion - and Alfredo Binda, the bike races that brings a touch of elegance and typhoid women.
Binda, cornet player of the band Cittiglio generates modernity and joins two periods. With the Little Man of Novi does not speak, simply unplug it uphill. Binda is good and lucky because the opponent could shadow him, Friulian Ottavio Bottecchia, even for political reasons is not accepted by the Houses Italian patron and must emigrate to France, where he will win the Tour de France in '24 and '25. Learco
The Mantuan War, better known as the "human locomotive" is the rival of Binda's final salary, in the early thirties, with Joseph (Gepin) Olmo spoilsport. War, formidable long-distance rider, as well as the athletic quality is loved for his smile open and doing "the hand". Binda will go down in history as the rider who, for obvious superiority in 1930 was not paid by the organizers to participate in the Giro. Grossed 22,500 pounds, the corresponding figure for the premium for the ultimate success more some stage victory. In 1935
check the star Gino Bartali, "the pious", destined to dominate the long national and international scene. The Tuscan raged until 1940 when the wood alongside the herd as Fausto Coppi, a promising young who immediately becomes the most feared nell'avversario: win it at the expense of the captain, the first of his five Tours. Bartali, proud, never to forgive the insult.
After the war, in 1946, Bartali takes revenge. Coppi will be back in odd years ('47, '49 and '53) in '52 and repeated the company for three years before the Giro and the Tour won in the same season. According to a proven script between the two litigants, however, is often to enjoy the third, Fiorenzo Magni, Tuscan three-time winner of the Tour of Italy and renamed the Lion of Flanders for his hat-trick in a row (during the years 1949, '50 and '51) in the "Queen of Walls ", the tough Belgian classic.
To find other epic duels must wait for the rivalry between the Adorni and Gimondi and a bit 'pumped by the media, between it and Motta. But the advent of Merckx, will wipe out the catch-ace putting together a trophy like no other.
Another, this time bitter, rivalry is between Francesco Moser and Giuseppe Saronni, he sees, for the first time, typhoid organized in the club. Moser combines up to 53 000 fans in his magical 1984, noted that his double record time in Mexico City, the victory at Milan-San Remo, and after many unsuccessful attempts, the longed-for success in the Tour of Italy, already Saronni won by in 1981 and 1983.
During the decade, one can not fail to mention the great challenges of Hinault and Moser against Fignon. The 90 will open but with the great duels, more to the Tour at the Giro, including Bugno and Chiappucci and closes with the epic challenge in the mountains between Marco Pantani - who for the "Diablo" Chiappucci was what was for Coppi Bartali - and Russia's Pavel Tonkov, the last to surrender to the "Pirate" in the historic Around 1998. Against Pantani have long uphill battle even Garzelli and Gotti, in turn rival Tonkov in '97 Tour, Indurain, Armstrong and Simoni. All too soon left orphaned by the largest seen since climber Charly Gaul.

TEN YEARS AFTER (Giro 1976)
In 1976, 34 years, after ten battles on the streets all over the world, Gimondi removes the enormous satisfaction of the Tour of Italy beat Merckx. The Bergamo, the third victory in the Giro, above 19 "another Belgian, De Muynck, and the Italian Fausto Bertoglio, defending champion in this edition, number 59, loses his place of honor in the time trial stage of Arcore decisive for the final results.
The defeat at the '75 Tour was marked harshly Belgian champion. In the final race Thevenet had removed the yellow jersey and then he had established the record with the company sull'Izoard, leaving the Cannibal second place overall at 2'47 "from the French. Merckx, perhaps for the first time, get this decline. The confirmation will have the following year when the Tour was won by Gimondi not even manage to win a stage. But the old lion paw from the square in "his" race. In fact, Milan-San Remo wins hands down on Panizza seventh success in winning the Spring Classic. A record perhaps unapproachable.
The 1977 gives him the ultimate career success. Around the Mediterranean, but also great suffering in the Tour of Italy - where the fans can see the Belgian plod on and on Bondone Vajolet Towers - and the Tour put under by Thevenet and Thurau. The following season it seems that around Merckx we can build a team for the revival of the sample, now 33, but for a few targeted goals. The director of the operation is the former racer Raphael Geminiani, then sporting director of Fiat France. But then the deal does not go through. At that point, the Cannibal, conscious of not being more competitive as before, and prefers to leave May 18, 1978 announced his retirement from racing.

the first time against (Florida 1966) The first time
Gimondi and Merckx is the cross Lombardia '66, tough late-season classic. Gimondi check on the younger Merckx. That same year, the same order of arrival at the Coppa Agostoni also. Then Eddy the Cannibal and will take many, many rebounds.
In '68, the challenge is all against the clock and input is always the Belgian GP in Forlì and in Lugano. In '69 Merckx is still beating from Bergamo to Flanders and Paris-Luxembourg. That's also where Gimondi year round wins the Giro pink jersey thanks to the disqualification of Merckx, tested positive to doping control after the stage Savona. But the following year will be to win right on Eddy Happy second.
In '71 we are right in the rivalry between the two great epoch: the sprint Gimondi Merckx beats both the San Remo and the World of Mendrisio in Switzerland.

THE WORLD OF LUGANO 1971
The Belgian was the third consecutive victory in the Tour de France and is the favorite on the roads in 53 decreed the success of champion champion, Fausto Coppi. Around the tenacious blue Bergamo coach Mario Ricci has assembled a squad with Basso, and Basso Dancelli. The Belgians, orchestrated by captain Merckx, close on the attacks of the Portuguese Agostinho Swerts and shove in the escape of Zoetemelk and Biton, who earn 150 km also 4 'before it decides that the Cannibal Eora to recover. On the 13th lap we try Mortensen's Danish and French on the slope of Novazzano Guimard. Merckx you drive by Pintens, Gimondi by Polidori. They go in but six remain at the end of the usual two, which starts along with cannibalism, to 250 meters, you eat from Bergamo in a sprint without history. The Belgian won with a distance of at least two cars, and arms raised. Gimondi the widening. "I lost against an opponent layer. So strong I'd never met, "says the blue, in form and capable of holding up to one hundred meters finals before losing to the rival superpower.


GIMONDI, his humble origins
Son of Moses and that of a postman delivering mail by bicycle, Felix was born in Sedrina in the countryside of Bergamo, 29 September 1942. Approaches to cycling seriously around the age of eighteen, when he begins to run in the U.S. Sedrinese, also militates in which local team as an amateur.

1964, RADIANT AVENIR
in 1964 Won the Tour de l'Avenir, Tour de France kind of small for the category, the year after passing a professional with the colors of Salvarani and hits a surprising third place in the Tour of Italy won Vittorio Adorni his captain ahead of Italo Zilioli. A month later, to replace a sick teammate, goes for Adorni shoulder in the Tour de France.

1965, NOW KING OF FRANCE
Following the withdrawal of captain, on a charge Tourmalet illness, has the freedom to "make table." Mont Ventoux on the Frenchman Raymond Poulidor finally promoted to the absence of Anquetil, Felice strong attack but does not lose his head and 34 "keeps the yellow jersey. Then they require in the time trial Versailles-Paris. And so, to debut in the "Grande Boucle, the first ends with 2'40" on Poulidor, ever after, and 9'18 "on the Italian Gianni Motta, soon after his main rival before the explosion of the phenomenon Belgian Eddy Merckx.
only 23 years, the taciturn boy born poor, who confided to reporters that his house is not had the bathroom, and family all washed in a tub, it becomes the great hope for the Italian post-Coppi. But the Tour de France, notwithstanding the past 18 days in yellow jersey in his career, will collect only the second in 1972. The crumbs left by the Cannibal, who Champs Elysees wins five times, four of them consecutive.

1966, ESCAPE TO HELL
The rivalry that opposes Merckx extends throughout the career of Gimondi that although it is often forced to succumb, he manages to carve out space for big hits. Begins as early as 1966 when, after the Paris-Roubaix, won with a bold escape and leaving the runner at Janssen 4 'wins posting the Paris-Brussels and imposes a sprint, right on neoprofessionista Belgium, the Giro di Lombardia, the classic that closes the season.

1967, HAPPY IN PINK
The appointment with the Tour of Italy in 1967 he was crowned with success in the standings, decided, after the uncertainties of the early stages, the attack of Gimondi in the penultimate stage, the Madonna del Ghisallo. Its durability and excellent recovery possibility for Italy to undermine the already declining in the standings Frenchman Jacques Anquetil, relegated to third place. The duel with
Merckx returns to the Tour next year. Gimondi's recent success is strong in the Vuelta of Spain, but this time to win and Merckx, who won three stages including the decisive one at Three Peaks. The year 1968 closes with the first link for Gimondi Italian Championship and sixth place in the World by Adorni won in Imola. Even in later years
privileged terrain of the battle-Gimondi Merckx is the greatest Italian stage race in 1969, following his disqualification for doping of Belgium, the Bergamo won his second Giro. Eddy
but takes his revenge the following year. The World of Mendrisio in Switzerland (1971) was decided in a sprint finish between the two, and Gimondi was second again, as the Tour of 1972. Revenge for the World Championships, however, Felix will have to wait a year.


Merckx, ANATOMY A CANNIBAL

1966, DAWN OF HIS ERA
Eddy Merckx's name appears for the first time in the gold of a great race in 1966: in March, is in fact the first of his seven Milan-San Remo, record not only unbeaten but perhaps even unapproachable.
The following month, a princely escape, leaving the Gimondi dominates the Roubaix runner-up, Janssen, more than 4 '. At the Giro thimbles instead requires unaltra hope of Italian cycling, Gianni Motta, talent that seems to create an exciting rivalry with Gimondi. Instead, in a sample will sweep it away legendary Eddy Merckx, the cannibal said to her insatiable hunger for victories.

EDDY, THE TRAVEL IN HEAD
Eddy Merckx Meensel Kiezegem born in Belgium, near Brussels in the province of Brabant, 17 June 1945.
His first race took place on 16 July 1961. The next year, is already in the national sample Beginners: This, in addition to 23 victories, allowed him to climb to a higher category. In 1963 he won 28 races in 1964 graduated from the amateur world champion, Sallanches in France. The following year he made his debut among the professionals, thanks to four hits over 5 races run during the months of March-April among amateurs in the highest category you put it into the light, his victories will be nine of the pros' end of the year. In March 1966 the first major statement, immediately won the Milan-San Remo, and continues through victories throughout the year. On November 4, reached with the Trofeo Baracchi (important time trial in pairs, with Bracke) the twentieth victory of the year. Some already fear that this boy not yet twenty-two could become unbeatable.
And in fact, in 1967 he wins Merckx suffered the Milan-San Remo, then two classic Belgian the Ghent-Wevelgem and the Flèche Wallonne, and so to show up at the Tour of Italy with two stage wins, which is significantly different: in the sprint Lido of Este, and uphill for posting on the Majella. After a few months gets the maximum: for Heerlen becomes, for the first time between the pro ', World Champion, confirming the success of the first three years in the amateurs.
Since then a crescendo of impressive results that led him to have a very rich prize list, and that, about thirty years since his retirement, it is even unapproachable.
In 1968 he became his hunting ground even the big stage race wins, wins hands down even his first Tour of Italy, 32 in a season full of successes, among which shines the most fascinating road race: Paris-Roubaix . The following year, have won 43 races, among them another Milan-San Remo, and the two most important Belgian classic: the Tour of Flanders (70-km solo flight and more than 5 minutes ahead of second) and the Liege-Bastogne-Liège.
It looks at the Tour de France and won with formidable authorities, nearly two minutes ahead of second, six stage wins, and all the charts outline (in the points, the King of the Mountains, the combativeness, the combined and the team). For this superiority on all fronts, the French dubbed it "The Cannibal".
The 1970 is even brighter: winning the Tour of Italy and the Tour de France (in the past two months). The French race is now only running for second place, Merckx, in fact, won the beauty of eight stages and drag your mates to win the team time trial. Between the two great revolutions have a way of winning the national championship, while in spring repeated her success in Paris-Roubaix in the Flèche Wallonne and Gent-Wevelgem. A total of 52 victories. Which become 54 (out of 120 races, nearly one in two) in 1971. These include: the World Championships in Mendrisio, the Milan-Sanremo, the Liege-Bastogne-Liege, Giro di Lombardia, the Tour of Belgium, another Tour de France, Paris-Nice, the Tour of the Dauphiné, the ' Het Volk el'Henninger Turm.
1972 was the second year of the Giro-Tour double, yet another of Milan-San Remo, yet the Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the Fleche Wallonne, Giro di Lombardia for a total of 50 victories. And at year end, still not satisfied with, fly to Mexico City and on the velodrome track gets a single test in the Hour Record, and the new Records of 10 and 20 km. In 1973
wins are 51 and about twice the Tour of Spain and Tour of Italy, with 12 stage wins, in addition to the Ghent-Wevelgem, the Amstel Gold Race, another Paris-Roubaix, Liege-Bastogne yet -Liege and Paris-Brussels. Three months
most exceptional feature in 1974, from May 16 to August 25 burst wins the Giro d'Italy (two stages), the Tour of Switzerland (3 stages), the Tour de France (8 stages) and graduated yet World Champion in Montreal. Impressive and unique.
The 1975 is the year that sees him along the Sunset Boulevard ... and be satisfied with 38 wins, including the sixth Milano-Sanremo, the second Amstel Gold Race, Tour of Flanders and another fifth Liege-Bastogne-Liège.
In 1976 only 15 wins, but another Milan-Sanremo (7 out of nine entries: impossible for anyone else), and in 1977 seventeen minor successes. Decide to withdraw in March 1978.
addition to winning races from February to October on the road, Merckx never tired even in winter when he ran in the velodrome. 98 are his victories on the track, among them the title of European champion and national champion in various specialties and 17 Six Days (the most important, Grenoble, Milan, Monaco, Berlin, Zurich, Ghent).
not just the results to give Merckx the greatest cyclist of definition of all time, but also its extraordinary gifts to complete athlete and very strong on all terrains. The Belgian has won many races for the posting, he beat the best sprinters in the sprint of his time in the mountains found only occasional opponents on the big climbs and has built the most prestigious victories, was also an excellent downhill skier, a formidable and a chrono- passista exceptional. The journalists wrote that for the time had run out of superlatives Merckx.
His conduct of the race was combative, based on the show and in profusion on the generosity of the effort: the presence of Merckx was synonymous with racing by storm, running in his head (hence the title "La Course en tete" of a film the biographical sample). All this meant that in addition to numerous wins Merckx was also often placed in the top races that could not win. A guarantee of success and concern for the opponents, all with great depth: Gimondi, De Vlaeminck, Motta, Godefroot, Van Looy, Moser, Maertens, Ocaña, Poulidor, Veerbeck, Fuente, Thevenet, Biton, Sercu.
standard of elegance and composure, Merckx has always had words of respect for all opponents, and Gimondi in particular, in accepting the superiority of the great Belgian with dignity and composure. The war between the two competitions running in no way implies any dispute ever, for any misunderstanding (the singer Enrico Ruggeri this couple will dedicate the beautiful song "Gimondi and cannibalism).
Married Claudine Acou, Merckx has two children, Sabrina and Axel (pro cyclist, bronze medalist at the Athens Olympics 2004). His bicycle factory started while still in his career, is now valued and appreciated for the production of very special high-level racing.

THE FIRST TIME IN PINK
There is also a certain Eddy Merckx also won the stage (12) comes to the Block Haus (Maiella) but does not go because of bronchitis. It is a tour in which shows particularly the sprinters. The Belgian Willy Planckaert, German Altig with the jersey of world champion. Michele Dancelli holds the honor of the Italian sprinter won in Mantua, you see Zandegù, another sprinter. Gimondi was first in trouble because of bronchitis, then grows with the advance of the race. The epic duels between the Tonale and sull'Aprica Anquetil. The 19th stage, the Udine-Three Peaks is annulled for irregularities. There was controversy over the push up (Gimondi was also involved). Happy 21st to take the top step (arriving in Tirano). The Merckx
that occurs at the start of Giro d'Italy Cycling '68 is a virtually unbeatable. Vince 4 stages (Novara, Saint Vincent, Brescia and Three Peaks) and dominates the overall standings, wearing 13 days the pink jersey. Gimondi able to get off just the satisfaction of Cesenatico-step beat in San Marino.

ERA cannibalism
impressive victory of the Three Peaks Merckx (12), with the mortgages as the first of his five Tours. In the time trial in San Marino (16) Gimondi wins. Comes forward a new sprinter, Marino Basso wins at Imola (15). On the Block Haus is necessary "Heart Of The Matter" Biton.

ONCE UPON A TIME CHANGE
Before it was invented to change, to move the relationship along with the more agile riders had to get off your bike, remove the wheel and turn the other side, where it was mounted another crown. But the 8 February 1930, after the cycling career, Tullio Compagnolo patented an ingenious idea: the hub lock.
'46 from France comes the evolution of the wand to change: the change Simplex system that eliminates the problem of the coaster. Finally, just a lever to change gears.

SAVONA AND LOMBARDY, THE STAIN OF DOPING
On 31 May 1969 Tour of Italy starts from Parma, and after 234 km, arriving in Savona. To win the stage and the Tuscan Ballini, followed by Basso and Reybroeck. Eddy Merckx retains pink jersey in the Giro and seems firmly in his hands. Instead limprevedibile
happens: the Cannibal tests positive for doping control. In his urine are detected and cortisone. It happens the end of the world: the Belgian rages, on charges of sabotage, the organizers, said that someone had put a bottle hidden in a substance, in order to get him out. And before the cameras to stop the process of Sergio Zavoli bursts into tears. It also has two masters in journalism diuscuteranno quiali Enzo Biagi and Indro Montanelli. Between fights, resentments and alleged plots, Merckx was forced to abandon the Giro, where his friend and rival triumph Felice Gimondi. It is the first episode that stains his career, since there immaculate and above all suspicion, the Belgian champions.
The second will occur four years later, the Tour of Lombardy in 1973. Eddy winner of the race, was found positive (traces of Stimul) and for the second time he has to give the victory to Gimondi.
A bit 'for these two episodes, but especially as Merckx, the best years of his career, he was able to tear any opponent for the entire season and on any terrain, in many suspected his systematic use of "aid" chemical .
What we can say today, three decades years later, the sample is most likely to have used substances to have more energy, increase the threshold of fatigue, but this is not enough to diminish the value of an athlete: Merckx was "Merckx" because it was the strongest, the most complete, even without external support. And to this agree the experts, journalists, and above all his opponents at the time.
The French and Italian disqualification of little interest to do so to participate in the Tour, where it dominates.
In 70 returns from suspension in the Giro and took the nickname form of cannibalism, because it leaves no pr road. In 71 and 72 continues to win almost always before Gimondi, that is often the only one able to challenge him.
You arrive at the World Cup 73, after a season that sees again Merckx protagonist.

MONTJUIC 1973, MERCKX
FOR A DAY At the World Cup back to a selective route, skimming the group to leave front of the candidates to victory. In Barcelona, \u200b\u200bthe circuit of Montjuic, you put the climate: the weather is hot.
coach Nino Defilippis Gimondi appointed captain and the team at the service linters with the outgoing champion Basso, the young Battaglin, Bergamo, Fabbri, Zilioli, Paolini, Poggiali and Polidori. There Gianni Motta, laltro great rival of Bergamo - especially at the end of the sixties - and not called in order not to upset Lunic tip blue.
Merckx, the great favorite, the eleventh of the seventeen laps launches an onslaught. Gimondi respond, taking the wheel Perurena Ocaña and English, the other blue Giovanni Battaglin, the Netherlands Zoetemelk and Belgian sprinter Freddy Maertens, neoprofessionista. It will be the decisive run.
Felice knew Maertens was very quick but also that cannibalism ever would be made available to the young team-mate. Thus, four kilometers from the end, sits at the wheel of Merckx and never left it. It was his only chance to win and he would not let him get away.
Gimondi, sprint, exceeds Maertens very active in setting up the sprint distance to capitan Merckx, who, inexplicably, not follow the work of young compatriot and thereby foster the success of Italian. The rainbow jersey is still among the most precious relics that lex samples stored at home. The bike instead Moffatt has kept Piero, his faithful mechanic.

FIFTEEN YEARS OF DUELS
Alsemberg In March 1963, in Belgium, the twenties Felice Gimondi beats Eddy Merckx, 18 more years to accomplish. But three decades later, that order of arrival will be the exception rather than the rule for two of the greatest champions in the history of ciclsimo.
pointless to ask what and how much he would have won the Italian if his path had not crossed the wheels of the Cannibal. What is certain is that the one was the stimulus for the other to give their best and to write the history of the great stage races and classics.
professionals in the two challenge for the first time in 1966, the year after this season, Gimondi won the Tour of Lombardy on his Belgian. In the same year and same order of arrival, the Italian won the Coppa Agostoni.
In 1968, the challenge is always against the clock and twice Merckx is faster than Gimondi, the Grand Prix of Forlì and Lugano. In 1969 he
cannibalism in pòrecedere from Bergamo, the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Luxembourg. In the same year, Gimondi won the Tour of Italy due to the fact that Merckx, tested positive to doping control at the end of the stage of Savona, is disqualified. But the next year Eddy takes his revenge by winning the race stages on their Italian Felice. The 1971 still sees
Merckx beat the sprint Gimondi both the Milan-San Remo and the World Championships in Mendrisio. The order of arrival the following year, respectively in the Tour de France and the Giro del Piemonte. To see
Gimondi precede the opponent must wait for the Tour of Lombardy in 1973, where it is actually Merckx to finish first but then be disqualified for the second time in his career, for doping. The Tour of Italy, however, everything happens regularly and is once again to overtake the Italian cannibal.
In 1974, however, takes the usual script. With the increasingly voracious cannibal Gimondi and trying to counter the pace. The Belgian's Giro, the Tour and the World Cup, leaving the crumbs to the opponents. Felice Gimondi glad you finally snatching the Milan-San Remo to those who had already won five times.

Merckx, THE ORIGINS
Bergamasco, Sedrina born in 1942, Felix is \u200b\u200bthe son of Moses, the postman who "lives" and works by bike: cycling, family, is so natural. Approaching
to cycling around the age of eighteen, Felice Gimondi Sedrianese began racing in the U.S., whose team also campaigning as an amateur. In the category is not like a predestined, but does not havoc is very smooth. Curiously, he happens to be part of a transition time of cycling. Before he looks mostly to the muscles and body, but now it is important to the tactical intelligence and a shrewd approach to the race. Happy studying the strengths and weaknesses of opponents, and then is ready to seize the right moment to act.
is how it begins to take a glimpse of his talent by winning the Tour de l'Avenir in 1964, a sort of little Tour de France for amateurs. The following year he turned professional in the ranks of Salvarani and participate in the Grand Boucle shoulder as Vittorio Adorni. After the withdrawal of its captain, the young Bergamo wins the yellow jersey and, after resisting the attacks of Raymond Poulidor on Mont Ventoux, legitimizes its success with victory in the trial of Versailles. During his career, the Tour does not is never repeated, but received second place in 1972.

MERCKX, "THE" RUNNER
He is competitive everywhere, is a talented climber, a strong sprinter, but also has the power to take suddenly without being reached to the finish.
does not have the brutal power of Merckx, is the cold that he prefers to remain in the large group to plan the next move, while the Belgian - more vehement and emotional - that is agitated and pressed for the first flight possible. It is this tactical skill and acumen that every so often to allow Felix to overtake the unbeatable rival, successful enterprises in a few of his contemporaries.

PRO AND NOW TOUR
Gimondi go pro in 1965 (Salvarani), passed in 1973 to Bianchi.
His pro career 'begins with the surprising victory in the Tour de France 1965. The following year he won the classic North, Paris-Roubaix and Paris-Brussels. In the coming years, despite the bulky shadow of Merckx, however, builds a track record that places him among the great of all time.
Gimondi is one of four riders to have won all three of the biggest stage races: in addition to the Tour de France (1965), three tours of Italy (in 1967, 1969 and 1976) and the Vuelta (1968). Not to mention the classic: the Paris-Brussels (1966 and 1976), Roubaix (1966), Milan-Sanremo (1974), two Tours of Lombardy (1966 and 1973).

HAPPY, ever after in his trophy
countless places of honor, especially behind the Cannibal Flemish. A curiosity: the great win the Tour of Italy in 1969, but after Eddy was disqualified for failing a doping test. Felice recognized sports that is not a "real" victory for it is born from the misfortunes of his rival, and the awards refuses to wear the pink jersey.

GOODBYE TO SAMPLE
He retired as a winner in 1978, still healthy, integrated and competitive at 37, two years after winning his third Tour of Italy. She concluded her career on the road in 1978 with the Giro dell'Emilia. The last appearance is in a six-day, in early '79. He won 141 races. At that time a
Binda, Girardengo, Coppi and Bartali have collected more hits. It is a model of style and seriousness for future generations of cyclists.

MODEL BEHAVIOR
is almost impossible to hear someone speak ill of the group Gimondi. His professionalism, his style - travel and life - and his sportsmanship is recognized by all. Always serious, loyal, and never a moan or a childish excuse.

TRIVIA
At its height with Merckx are dedicated to the songs "Gimondi and the cannibal" by Enrico Ruggeri and "I'm Happy" by Elio e le Storie Tese.

GIMONDI THE WEEK TRAINING
SUNDAY - MONDAY
240-250 km in the race - at home, out of exhaust: 40-50 km
TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY
110-120 km without force - the most important day: 160 - 170 km; background work with intervals and recoveries
THURSDAY - 60-70 km maintenance
FRIDAY - finishing work: 120-130 km depending on the condition
Saturday - rest

Christian Giordano