Zoncolan: with the Giro d'Italia on the great hill climbs

Cycling on the same roads as the Giro d'Italia, just before the athletes arrive is a truly exciting experience, especially when there are some steep climbs to be tackled. Like, for example, when last year together with my friend Dario (who is much fitter than me...), we got into the saddle from Tolmezzo to Sella Chianzutan. A short but intense route. A real sporting festival, in which many other fans crowded the steep road. Each at his own “pace”, without stress about having to prove himself. The important thing was to arrive, while having fun. And, after passing under the banner of the GPM, like the real competitors, we all waited for the arrival of the pink caravan celebrating in the company of beers and sandwiches. But there are also climbs that not everyone can tackle on a bicycle. Like the one that, in all probability, is the most famous of the Giro d'Italia. One of the toughest climbs in Europe, and which all those who follow cycling know well: the Zoncolan.

The "monster of Carnia", as some define it, certainly needs no introduction. But do not be discouraged: you can always climb it on foot! As I did many years ago, precisely in 2007 in the company of some friends. Of course it is not really a Sunday afternoon stroll, but it is really worth it! After a long wait spent in good company breathing mountain air, it’s time for the protagonists of the day. The race radio announces that they will soon be passing. On the Zoncolan, we cannot see the cyclists yet, but there is plenty of time to see them well, and somehow be part of their effort. Here the show lasts a long time and it’s a great thrill. In these moments, it is possible to see the suffering on the face of the cyclists. On this mountain, I have met fans who have come from the other side of the world, to see and incite their idols for just a few seconds. On 19 May 2018, the Giro returns to “his majesty”, with the arrival of the 14th stage that starts from San Vito al Tagliamento and passes by Muris before the great final climb. And what a show it will be once again! The arrival of the stage on the Zoncolan is always a real party, which is attended by thousands of people every time. And in the end it does not really matter knowing who won the stage, because everyone wins on the “Kaiser”. Sport and the desire to be together win.