Gilberto Simoni special guest of the Granfondo Matildica

Imagine finding yourself at the start of the 50th edition of the Granfondo Matildica alongside a champion who has won two Giri d’Italia (2001 and 2003) and 32 victories as a professional, including a stage in the Tour de France and two in the Vuelta of Spain. It’s hard to believe, but it’s all thanks to Gilberto Simoni, testimonial of excellence for the competitive cycling event that on 17 July will start from Piazza della Vittoria at 7 a.m., in a race that for the first time will also host the Uec European Championships for ’granfondo’ and ’mediofondo’.

"Gibo’, 52 years old next 25 August, will be back on the pedals (he retired as a professional in 2010) to enjoy the spectacle of the Reggio Emilia Apennines, in an event that he did not want to give up: "I have many friends in Castelnovo Monti and Carpineti to which I am also tied for affection and family history - began the native of Palù di Giovo (Trentino) -. Then we know: what unites us sportsmen is the passion for cycling, and I believe that the areas of the Reggio Emilia Apennines are in any case special, beautiful to live in. The Granfondo Matildica offers us this possibility in complete safety, within a day dedicated to us cyclists. And for me, even after so many years, a bike ride remains the greatest passion".

The entry fee for the competitive cycling event will be 55 euros, with the deadline exceptionally extended until 24 April inclusive; from then on it will rise to 65 euros until 15 June. The price includes number and race package, mechanical assistance on the two available routes of 121 and 149 kilometres, supplies, medical assistance, recovery in case of abandonment. In addition, at the arrival there will be a full refreshment, the ’pasta party’ and a massage service. For cycle tourists, on the other hand, the fee is 20 euro.

For registration and further information please visit www.granfondomatildica.it or the social channels Facebook and Instagram of the Granfondo Matildica.