Marco Pantani R.I.P *13 jan 70 +14 feb 2004

This is how we will remember Marco Pantani

 Today on Valentines day it´s also a day to remember a great cyclist, today it´s nine years since Marco Pantani so sadly ended his life, alone and to early in a hotelroom. His end was tagic, but before that as cyclist he was magic, he had a great personality and he sure earned his nickname - Il Pirata. His records still hold up to Alpé de Huez, he has the three first greatest time up that mountain.

Marco Pantani memorial

Who doesn´t remember 1998 when Marco Pantani as the last rider so far managed to do that, when he took the double: Giro d´Italia and Tour de France. He together with Fausto Coppi has earned a own modelbrand at Bianchi, Coppi took the double in 1949 and 1952, so Bianchi has created a brand : 928
Which indicates the years the bike with Coppi and Pantani took the double 194(9), 195(2) and 199(8).

Not many riders has created such a myth around his own name, but Marco Pantani is sure among the top 10 of legendary riders.

Rest in peace Marco Pantani, cycle fans around the world mourn you and wish that you still was around us!

Team Androni Giocattoli-Venezuela have been the last years to Pantani:s birthtown and have a training camp there. Every year the Team pay Marco Pantani their respect to him and going to the statue of the Legend: Marco Pantani! Today as the last two years, the Team have the honour to ride at the same brand as Marco did, Fabio Felline also won the Pantani Memorial race last year, which was very touching.

Cyclist around the world unites in the memory of Marco Pantani!

/Fritz (admin of Team Androni Giocattoli-Venezuela Fan blogg)