CyclingRevealed's Giro Perspective

Tappa 1- May 8th, Reggio Calabria to Tropea, 208 km

Bountiful Bettini

The first stage of the 2005 Giro d'Italia meanders through the spectacular sights of the Calabria region of Italy . The race leaves Reggio Calabria and travels along the beautiful southern coast through the resorts of Capo Spartivento, Bovalino Marina, Locri and Siderno. A quick turn to the north and the rolling terrain should be a launching pad for attacking riders.

The finishing City of Tropea is built on a sandy cliff over looking the Mediterranean Sea on the northern coast of Calabria . The narrow streets and ancient architecture have attracted world travelers for over 100 years.

More spectacular Mediterranean beaches in Tropea [Image by Tropea.com]

The run-in to the finish is very technical and may fray the nerves of the large bunch. The pure sprinters will be tested with the narrow twisting turns in the last 5 km.

The peloton was single file down a narrow descent into the final kilometer. Fassa Bortolo lead-out train controlled the front under the 1 km kite but “Il Grillo” Paolo Bettini used the sharp 15% incline to launch himself off the front. As the road leveled for the final 400 meters Bettini had a 5 second lead and would not be caught. Robbie McEwen and Alessandro Petacchi were 2 nd and 3 rd respectively. For his effort Bettini donned the Maglia Rosa.

Paolo Bettini in Pink [Image by La Gazetta]

Return to Giro 05 ToC >>> Previous Stage >>> Next Stage >>>