ED’s GIRO Roadside ‘PEZ Top 12’

Reflecting on the 2015 Giro d’Italia, the event is remembered fondly despite some challenges such as numerous crashes and punctures during the final stage in Milan. A notable strategic moment involved Mikel Landa being instructed to wait for teammate Fabio Aru, reminiscent of tactics seen in Team Sky’s Froome and Wiggins era. The piece pays tribute to Ed Hood, a respected cycling journalist who passed away in 2025, by revisiting some of his insightful observations and personal highlights from the race, capturing the unique atmosphere and stories that made the Giro special that year. Among the standout moments was Iljo Keisse’s remarkable performance, showcasing his strength and tactical savvy on the brutal mountain climbs and ultimately securing a memorable win in Milan. The article also celebrates the cultural and sensory experiences of the Giro, such as the perfect Italian cappuccino enjoyed at small roadside bars, which contrasts with the more hurried coffee culture elsewhere. The scenic beauty of the Italian lakes, particularly around Verbania on Lake Maggiore, provided a serene backdrop to the intense racing, highlighting the slower, more reflective pace of life away from the race’s urban centres. The race itself was marked by fierce competition in the mountains, with Dutch rider Steven Kruijswijk impressing as a throwback to the era when riders from flat countries dominated the climbs. The mountains remain the defining battleground of the Giro, where the greatest time gaps occur and legends are made, even as the sport wonders if the days of iconic climbers like Pantani and Van Impe are behind us. Fabio Aru emerged as a key figure, winning two stages and finishing second overall, though some scepticism was expressed about his consistency given his fluctuating form throughout the race. The coverage also pays homage to the role of La Gazzetta dello Sport, the race’s official newspaper, whose distinctive pink pages and comprehensive reporting set the tone for the Giro experience. The publication’s vibrant and unapologetic style contrasts with the more subdued editions available outside Italy, underscoring the deep cultural connection between the race and its home nation. Overall, the reflections evoke not only the sporting drama but also the rituals, personalities, and landscapes that define the Giro d’Italia as a unique and enduring spectacle in the world of cycling.