Every year 2 very good friends, Collodi and Mao (Claudio and Maorizio) challenge each other to do 2 circuits of Bagni di Lucca. Lucky me, I was here to see the spectacular event this morning.
At 8.30 the participants began to arrive at the piazza. The race is between just 2, but their friends go along for the ride as well.
Mao, in the white T shirt arrives.
There is preliminary discussion with Collodi, in the red shirt.
Then there is more discussion.
There are advisors.
A small problem with a bike.
More discussion.
And they are off.
Collodi takes an early lead.
The others join in
2 wives and a daughter are there to see them off.
Friends gather for more discussion.
Collodi is in the lead after the first circuit.
The others follow.
And here they come down the last bit.
I actually missed photographing the end because a car got in the way.
Mao won with Collodi a close second.
Collodi lives to ride again.
Still friends.
There is more discussion.
A couple of gratuitous photos of men in Lycra.
Congratulations Mao!
I hope I am here next year for the big race.