The 1951 Giro del Piemonte was one of the latest and greatest achievements in Bartali’s amazing 20‑year professional career, which would be over in 1954.
“Ginettaccio” notched a series of three wins – in 1937, 1939 and 1951 – demonstrating the importance and renown of this cycling classic for all the riders of that time.
He also took second place twice, in 1941 and in 1942, behind Bini and Magni, respectively – both of whom were among the most successful winners of the race.
We would not have enough space and time here to recall all the victories of the Tuscan ace, nor to describe what leading role he played also as a man, not just as an athlete. We shall, therefore, just mention that he won the Giro d’Italia three times, the Tour de France twice, Milan-Sanremo four times and the Giro di Lombardia three times.
And we should bear in mind that he achieved all this even though the war robbed him of some of his best seasons – as it had done with Girardengo, Coppi and many others.
What can be said, though, is that perseverance, persistence, determination and resolve have been his greatest assets, allowing him to win major races several years apart, which is quite unique in the cycling world.
For example, he won his first grand tour in 1936, when he was not yet 22, and his last one in 1948, at the ripe age of 34.
Bartali’s greatness, however, is even more striking if we look at his achievements at the Giro del Piemonte.
His first victory, back in 1937, and his last one, in 1951, are no less than 14 years apart. Fourteen years is an eternity for a rider of such a level.
And then, of course, there are other reasons that made Gino’s life unique.
His rivalry with Coppi, which fired up Italian fans. His efforts for saving Jewish people during the war. His memorable quotes (“Some medals are pinned to your soul, not to your jacket.”, “Everything’s wrong; we’ll have to start all over again”). His victory at the Tour in 1948, which is said to have averted a civil war.
Courage, persistence and stubbornness. That’s where it all came from. That’s what Gino Bartali – one of the brightest stars in the history of cycling – was made of.
