Tatiana and Monica Chat Over A Cappuccino

The MCipollini-Giordana women's team is going to be a powerful team this season with three consecutive road world champions: Marta Bastianelli (winner 2007), Nicole Cooke (2008) and Tatiana Guderzo (2009). Also, on the team is Monia Baccaille, Italian national champion in 2009 and 2010.

Over a cappuccino Tatiana Guderzo (right, above), 2009 World champion, talks about her team and plans: "We're a good group which doesn't lack a warm smile. We must take this spirit into the races so that we achieve good results and never lose our good humor. My personal goals? I'd like to make to win the tricolor jersey on the road and dream of the pink jersey." (ed. note: Guderzo has won TT and track Italian national championships).

Monia Baccaille adds, "We are a top team which includes, with the exception of Bronzini (ed. note 2010 Worlds road winner), all the world champions in recent years. I am a bit late in my preparations because I was recently operated on my clavicle but I expect to soon find a good pedal stroke. A wish for this year? Winning the Italian title for the 3rd time in a row which has been accomplished in the past only by Maria Canins."

Share your story. Write a story about your cycling trip, or an aspect of your trip, in Italy. Or, it can be about a granfondo experience, a special encounter, your favorite ride, etc. The period for story submissions for prizes will be January 1-February 15, 2011. Prizes will be awarded on a random basis, stories will not be judged on which is the "best" one. Nevertheless, it should be a good story for the enjoyment of all readers. Photos accompanying the story are most welcome. If you have any questions email me at veronaman@gmail.com. See photos of prizes here. Prize donated by:
CycleItalia, specializing in cycling tours in Italy
BicycleGifts.com, the premiere site for gifts and merchandise for cyclists
Enzo’s ButtonHole Chamois Cream,chamois cream for the ultimate protection
FreeBirdVelo, Italian themed T-shirts
Strada Hand Built Wheels, custom wheel building
Velo-Retro, all things retro for cycling
La Gazzetta della Bici, massage oils for cyclists