Ed’s GIRO’16 Roadside Look Back

Ed Hood, a revered figure in cycling journalism, was renowned for his deep affection for the Giro d’Italia, considering it the pinnacle of his racing calendar. His passion for the Italian Grand Tour was unmatched, with the event holding a special place in his heart alongside other classics like Flanders and winter velodrome racing. Sadly, Ed passed away in January 2024, two years after suffering a severe stroke, leaving behind a rich legacy of insightful and engaging coverage. To honour his memory, eMotoX Sports revisits one of his cherished pieces, reflecting on his unique roadside perspective of the 2016 Giro. Ed’s reflections capture the essence of the Giro experience, from the iconic pink pages of La Gazzetta dello Sport to the varied accommodations he encountered. He highlights the newspaper’s candid and sometimes harsh assessments of riders, such as the criticism of André Greipel for abandoning the race, and the nuanced ratings given to key contenders like Vincenzo Nibali and Mikel Landa. Ed also shares personal anecdotes about his lodging, praising the Hotel Meransner in the mountains for its hospitality despite its eerie solitude, and expresses fondness for the picturesque town of Molveno by the lake, which offered a perfect blend of natural beauty and local charm. The article delves into the spectacular landscapes that define the Giro, with Ed particularly moved by the vistas of the Col de la Bonette, whose alpine grandeur rivals the world’s highest mountain passes. He contrasts this with the obscured views of the Agnello, where low cloud cover denied him the full experience. Alongside the scenery, Ed touches on the local culture, including a humorous take on grappa, the potent Italian brandy that serves as a fitting nightcap for those enduring early starts and long days on the road. Ed also acknowledges the camaraderie and support that underpin the race, thanking figures like John Trevorrow of Orica-GreenEDGE for his mentorship and insights. He observes the variety of team vehicles, noting the distinctive style of Southeast’s SUVs and questioning the necessity of the numerous motorbikes accompanying Team Sky. The piece concludes with a nod to the resilience of teams like Katusha, who overcame setbacks such as Ilnur Zakarin’s crash through the efforts of Rein Taaramäe, and a glimpse of the experienced management trio guiding the squad, underscoring the depth of expertise present behind the scenes. This retrospective not only celebrates Ed Hood’s enduring passion and encyclopaedic knowledge of the Giro but also offers readers a vivid, personal snapshot of the race’s atmosphere and challenges. His writing remains a testament to the spirit of cycling journalism, blending sharp observation with heartfelt appreciation for the sport’s traditions and personalities. As the Giro continues to evolve, Ed’s perspective serves as a reminder of the unique magic found in following the race from the roadside.