The first two days of the Nove Colli weekend have come to a close, with the Village in Piazza Andrea Costa transformed into a crossroads of emotions, encounters, and passion for cycling. On Friday and Saturday, among the expo stands, side events, and moments of celebration, thousands of people – not just granfondo participants – experienced a unique atmosphere filled with sport, community, and solidarity.
The beating heart of the event was the Nove Colli Village: from the race packet distribution to the sponsor stands, every corner told a story of anticipation and preparation for the 54th edition of the Granfondo. But today, it was the side events that took center stage, adding color and meaning to this special eve.
Mini Nove Colli: The Champions of Tomorrow Already Riding Today
The day began with the Mini Nove Colli, where over 300 children brought the Villamarina cycling track to life. A friendly ride with no stopwatch but plenty of enthusiasm. Every child received gifts, smiles, and a tasty snack offered by the Fausto Coppi Cycling Club – a perfect celebration of sport and growth through fun.
The “Fedelissimi”: The History of Nove Colli Rides Through Them
In the afternoon, it was time to honor tradition with the “Fedelissimi” award ceremony. More than 130 cyclists were celebrated for reaching key milestones: their 15th, 20th, 25th, or even 30th Nove Colli. A special applause also went to the most numerous teams, a testament to how the Nove Colli is a collective experience that brings together friends and communities.
The Dream Team #NoveColli4Children: Sport That Gives Twice
The day wrapped up with the official presentation of the #NoveColli4Children Dream Team. Led by cycling legend Alejandro Valverde, the team also features Fabio Aru, Chiara Ciuffini, Rocco Cattaneo, and Christian Zorzi. Their mission? To complete the medium course in under 4 hours. If they succeed, the Organizing Committee and Gobik will donate €10,000 to the IOR – Istituto Oncologico Romagnolo.
But the Dream Team won’t be riding alone. They will be joined – and supported – by 41 “solidarity domestiques”: riders who registered with a special fee that will also go to benefit the IOR. They, too, will be part of this charitable team ride.
Tomorrow: The Big Day
Now, everything is ready for the most anticipated moment. The official start of the 54th Granfondo Nove Colli is set for tomorrow, Sunday, May 18, at 6:00 a.m. from the Colonia Agip. It promises to be, once again, a great celebration of sport.