Giro di Lombardia (ITA) - 20.10.2007

(This event is on the 2007 UCI ProTour calendar but does not hold a UCI ProTour licence)

The Giro di Lombardia brings down the curtain on the major European races with a tough race around the hills and shores of Lake Como. The Giro di Lombardia is a true one-day classic. It is a hundred years old after first being held in 1905 and always produces some great racing. The route has changed over the decades with finishes being held in Milan, Bergamo and Como. In recent years the race has started over the border in the Swiss town of Mendrisio and finished on the shores of Lake Como in the centre of the town. The climb from the lake up to the chapel of the Madonna di Ghisallo has been a constant decisive point in the race and now marks the start of the final climbs in the 250km race. A key break often forms on the steep hairpins of the Ghisallo as the other riders quickly realise their chances and season are virtually over. The final San Fermo overlooking Como is now the launch pad for late attacks and creates a thrilling finale. In 2006 new recently crowned World Champion Paolo Bettini took an emotional and moving victory just ten days after the tragic death of his older brother Sauro. He cried in mourning as he crossed the line, pointing to the sky to indicate his brother had inspired him to victory.