6871 participants braved a rainy start and morning, but then the sun came out to brighten a day of celebration, sports, and solidarity
The rain during the start and most of the morning didn't deter the participants of the Nove Colli. There were 6871 actual starters in this September version, necessitated by the postponement due to flooding. The event harked back to those May days with Fausto Coppi, who immediately turned this postponement into a grand celebration: a gathering to pedal together, endure the challenge, and raise precious funds for the recovery of the region. On one hand, €10,000.00 were donated, along with the IOR, thanks to the performance of the #NoveColli4Romagna champions – Mondini, Cattaneo, Basso, and Gianetti, who finished in under six hours. On the other hand, thanks to the decision to donate all race profits to charity. This kept registrations open until the last moment, and the festive atmosphere at the Colonia Agip village was even more significant and joyful than usual.
The first riders set off at 7 AM, still in the dark, and the very last one arrived at 4:51 PM, amid the best Nove Colli atmosphere. Sabatino Di Giuliano from Trieste completed the long route and was moved to tears by the applause from the crowd and the warm reception. For him – a 66-year-old informed engineer – there were music, toasts, gifts, and the certainty that all participants in this race are special. Thus, the 52nd edition came to a close, already paving the way for the 53rd. The date is already set: Sunday, May 19, 2024, Cesenatico will be the only place to be if you love cycling.
In the words of Andrea Agostini, President of Fausto Coppi:
"From 2020 to today, we've found ourselves organizing the Nove Colli five times to only run three editions. After the health emergency, we thought we wouldn't find ourselves in this situation again, and then the flood happened. But if the Nove Colli is recognized by everyone as a symbol of Romagna, we had the duty – and the beautiful challenge – not to give up. That's why we'll always be attached to this 52nd edition: despite the rain, we can say it was a success. In the United States, they talk about legacy, something more than an inheritance, a spirit that is passed on. Many enthusiasts chose to be there for themselves and for an entire region that has always welcomed them and that this time found itself in need. Thanks, as always, to all the volunteers and all the people who work all year round for the success of this event. Fausto Coppi will donate all race profits to the flooded territory, I reiterate it and say it with pride," said Andrea Agostini.