The Cycling Podcast S13 Ep60: KM0: Valley of Kings
May 29, 2025
Explore the captivating Valle d’Aosta, home to dramatic mountain stages that shape the Giro d’Italia. Delve into intense cycling rivalries and unforgettable moments from the Tour de France and Giro, highlighting legends like Coppi and Merckx. Hear from young cyclists about their tough transitions and aspirations in the sport. Learn about the region's dual nature as both a challenging training ground and a tourist haven, while celebrating its rich cycling heritage and breathtaking routes.
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Valle d'Aosta's Unique Geography
- Valle d'Aosta is Italy's smallest region located in the northwestern Alps, known for its bilingual French and Italian culture.
- Its terrain ranges predominantly between 1,000 and 3,000 meters, making it a prime location for challenging cycling climbs.
Bartali and Coppi's 1949 Duel
- In the 1949 Tour de France, Bartali and Coppi's rivalry was prominent, with Bartali crashing on a descent and Coppi winning the stage by nearly five minutes.
- Bartali's descending anxiety was linked to the Superga tragedy, affecting his performance.
Merckx's 1973 Strategic Victory
- In 1973, Eddie Merckx won a decisive stage in Valle d'Aosta by strategically attacking the final climb after passing through the Mont Blanc tunnel.
- The 1973 Giro symbolized European unity by including multiple countries in the route.
