Mario Ricci wins a War Torn Lombardia
The 37th edition of the Giro di Lombardia was held on October 19, 1941.
Italy entered World War 2 on June 10, 1940, after a year of economic hardships the "race of the falling leaves" went on as scheduled.
SPECIAL NOTE: In an effort to conserve energy and travel costs, this year’s race started and finished at the Vigorelli Velodrome in Milan.
Sixty-three Italian riders started in Milan before heading onto the plains of Lombardia north of the city. The early kms were intensely competitive.
Race Status:
On the Madonna del Ghisallo climb(131 km / 217 km), usually a "pivotal point" in the race saw the Bartali / Coppi led Legnano team battle the Cinelli / Magni led Bianchi team to control the peloton. The group split into numerous small packs under the elite pressure of the aggressive pace.
Through Niguarda (210 km / 217 km), a leading group of thirteen riders formed maintaining cohesion toward Milan. Five Bianchi riders and three Legnano riders set up to contest the 13-rider bunch sprint.
Mario Ricci (Legnano) led thirteen riders into the velodrome. With the help of teammates Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali, Ricci sprinted to the victory. Cino Cinelli (Bianchi) settled for second place and Severino Canavesi (Gloria) in third.
GdL October 19, 1941 |
217 Km, Milan (Vigorelli Velodrome) - Milan (Vigorelli Velodrome) |
1.
Mario RICCI (Ita) 6h26'41" |
2.
Cino Cinelli (Ita) |
3.
Severino Canavesi (Ita) |
Starters: 63 / Finishers: 38 Average Speed: 33.670 km/h |
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Lomb 1940 Lomb 1942
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