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- Introduction;
- The race report;
- Behind the scenes – The Speaker’s control room;
- The post-race – Interviews, awards, acknowledgements;
- Conclusion – Upcoming Events.
1. Introduction
The 31st edition of the Sinalunga Bike exceeded all expectations, confirming itself as a benchmark Sporting Event in the national Mountain bike scene. The race, nestled in the heart of the Sienese Valdichiana, attracted a wave of enthusiasts from every corner of Central Italy, drawn by the combination of a technically stimulating route and participation in four prestigious circuits: the Tour 3 Regioni, the Umbria Tuscany MTB, the Circuito MTB Maremma Tosco Laziale, and the Coppa Toscana MTB. The Sinalunga Bike was, once again, a celebration of sport, the territory, and the passion for off-road cycling.
The atmosphere in Sinalunga was that of a grand occasion, a mix of adrenaline and conviviality. The impeccable organization of Donkey Bike Sinalunga, with its customary masterful direction, transformed the I Gelsi Shopping Center into a veritable cycling village. The Start/Finish area, with its ample spaces and services, was a hive of activity: teams prepared in their gazebos, volunteers coordinated, cyclists warmed up, and the public gathered. The enthusiasm was palpable, a contagious energy that lasted throughout the day, from the frenetic start to the awards ceremony, passing through the inevitable pasta party. The weather conditions, ideal for the race, gave way to a rainy afternoon, which forced the organizers to change the scheduled program for the awards ceremony, managed with their usual efficiency.
Returning to Sinalunga, after four unforgettable editions (2016 – 2019), was like meeting up with old friends. The bond with Donkey Bike Sinalunga is strong, based on mutual respect and the shared passion for cycling. Finding familiar faces, the tireless organizers, the smiling volunteers, filled me with joy. The renewed trust is a testament of esteem that honors me and spurs me to give my best. The Sinalunga Bike is a special event, which has given me unique emotions and holds a special place in my heart. Back to Menu
2. The race report
The 31st edition of the Sinalunga Bike was a symphony of emotions, a crescendo of adrenaline that saw cyclists challenge each other in an epic duel among the Sienese hills. The route, a track designed to enhance the characteristics of the territory appreciated by all the Bikers, put the participants to the test, who had to face challenging climbs, technical descents, and single tracks immersed in nature.
2.1 Highlights of the Long Course
The race began with a sustained pace, with a group of top athletes immediately setting the tempo. At Rigomagno (SI), after approximately one hour and eleven minutes of racing, a group of nine riders passed through together, demonstrating great cohesion and excellent physical condition. The leading group of nine passed the time checkpoint in the following order: Stefano Valdrighi (Bottecchia Factory Team), Giuseppe Panariello (NEB18 Factory Team), Vincenzo Saitta (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Juan Daniel Alarcon Ambrosio (NEB18 Factory Team), Mattia Toccafondi (DMT Racing by Marconi), Davide Masi (Bottecchia Factory Team), Matteo Spinetti (Ciclissimo Bike Team), Emanuele Spica (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Carlo Cortesi (Bottecchia Factory Team) and, ten seconds behind in tenth position, Filippo Bertone (Bottecchia Factory Team). The decisive selection occurred in the second part of the course, with the leading group reduced to six riders at the Scrofiano (SI) checkpoint. The six riders passed through in the following order: Mattia Toccafondi (DMT Racing by Marconi), Stefano Valdrighi (Bottecchia Factory Team), Vincenzo Saitta (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Emanuele Spica (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Giuseppe Panariello (NEB18 Factory Team), Juan Daniel Alarcon Ambrosio (NEB18 Factory Team). Here, the tension was palpable, with the best athletes ready to battle for victory in the final kilometers. The final sprint, with Emanuele Spica making the most of an inside line, was an explosion of adrenaline, a neck-and-neck duel that thrilled the spectators. The finish order was as follows:
- Emanuele Spica (Rolling Bike Racing Team) 2:05:37
- Vincenzo Saitta (Rolling Bike Racing Team) 2:05:38
- Stefano Valdrighi (Bottecchia Factory Team) 2:05:39
- Giuseppe Panariello (NEB18 Factory Team) 2:05:50
- Juan Daniel Alarcon Ambrosio (NEB18 Factory Team) 2:06:00
- Mattia Toccafondi (DMT Racing by Marconi) 2:06:22
- Filippo Bertone (Bottecchia Factory Team) 2:07:34
- Matteo Spinetti (Ciclissimo Bike Team) 2:07:58
- Carlo Cortesi (Bottecchia Factory Team) 2:08:13
- Davide Masi (Bottecchia Factory Team) 2:08:51
2.2 The Women’s Long Course Ranking
The women’s race at the 2025 Sinalunga Bike was an exciting battle for victory, with three athletes distinguishing themselves through their determination and athletic preparation. Chiara Tassinari (Team Essere) conquered the highest step of the podium, crossing the finish line in 2 hours, 42 minutes, and 20 seconds. Her performance was characterized by an intelligent race strategy and a decisive surge in the second half of the course.
For about half the race, Tassinari rode alongside Cristiana Lippi (Ciclissimo Bike Team), demonstrating great understanding and a sustained pace. However, in the second part of the course, Tassinari shifted gears, launching an attack that allowed her to break away from Lippi and head towards victory.
Cristiana Lippi still delivered an excellent race, finishing in second place, 1 minute and 59 seconds behind the winner. Her performance was marked by great consistency and a remarkable ability to manage her effort.
Completing the podium was Martina Zoli (ASD Bikefan), who crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 46 minutes, and 44 seconds, 4 minutes and 24 seconds behind Tassinari. Zoli demonstrated great determination, fighting to the end to secure a place on the podium.
The women’s race at the 2025 Sinalunga Bike confirmed the high level of the participating athletes, who delivered a thrilling and spectacular competition.
2.3 Short Course: The top three at the finish line
The Short Course of the 2025 Sinalunga Bike, with its 38 kilometers and 800 meters of elevation gain, offered an intense and exciting challenge for the participants, who demonstrated great determination and competitive spirit.
The men’s race was dominated by Marco Bonini (CM2 ASD), who set a high pace from the early stages of the competition. At the Scrofiano (SI) checkpoint, after about one hour and five minutes of racing, Bonini was leading with a lead of over two minutes on the chasers. His race conduct was impeccable, with intelligent effort management and a great ability to interpret the course.
Behind him, Stefano Fiorini (APD Ciociaria Bike) and Stefano Sensi (MTB Montefiascone) engaged in a close battle for second place. At the Scrofiano (SI) checkpoint, Fiorini was ahead of Sensi by only two seconds, but in the second part of the course, Sensi managed to come back, taking the final second place.
Following is the Finish order for the top three male and female overall:
- Marco Bonini (CM2 ASD) 1:29:52
- Stefano Sensi (MTB Montefiascone) 1:32:19
- Stefano Fiorini (APD Ciociaria Bike) 1:33:46
- Chiara Vernaccini (Livorno Team Bike ASD)
- Ernestina Frosini (Biking Racing Team)
- Nadia Bedendi (GS Poppi BP Motion ASD)
2.4 My perspective as a Speaker
The entry into the starting grid was a moment of great excitement, with the presence of the Organizing Committees of the Circuits along with the sports authorities adding a touch of solemnity to the Event. I thank the following for speaking at the microphone: Mrs. Rossella Cottone (Sports Councilor of the Municipality of Sinalunga) and Mr. Luca Menichetti (President of the F.C.I. Tuscany Regional Committee). Mr. Roberto Cocchieri (President of the F.C.I. Umbria Regional Committee) was also present. During the race, thanks to Alessandro (Timekeeper) and Luca (Organizer), I tried to keep the audience updated on the riders’ passages and gaps, creating an atmosphere of involvement and participation. In the final kilometers, with the imminent arrival of the first athletes, the adrenaline soared, and I tried to convey the excitement of the final sprint, describing every detail of the battle between Spica, Saitta, and Valdrighi. During the arrivals, I appreciated the collaboration of Andrea (Staff – Bike Advisor), who provided valuable support in reading the riders’ numbers, allowing me to provide precise and timely information to the audience. The interviews with the winners, conducted immediately after the finish line, were an opportunity to gather their immediate impressions of the race, revealing the emotions and strategies that led to victory. The podium for the top three overall finishers celebrated the performance of the protagonists of this 31st Sinalunga Bike 2025. Back to Menu
3. Behind the scenes – The Speaker’s control room
The work of the speaker at an event like the Sinalunga Bike goes far beyond simply narrating the race. It’s a real direction, an orchestra of sounds, information, and interactions that contributes to creating the atmosphere and engaging the audience.
3.1 What tools did I use for my work as a Speaker?
My day in Sinalunga started at 6:30 AM, with an immediate immersion into the preparations. The start/finish area was a hive of activity, with the Donkey Bike Sinalunga staff already working to set up every detail. A special thanks goes to Luca, from the organizing company, for his valuable collaboration in setting up and dismantling the audio system, a fundamental element for the success of the event. A particular thanks also goes to Fabio, who came specifically from Cortona (AR) to lend a hand to the organization. It was a pleasure to see him again after a few years, and his presence was a great help.
The audio system used for the 2025 Sinalunga Bike consisted of professional equipment, selected to ensure optimal audio quality and effective coverage of the area.
- Mixers: 1 Behringer Xenyx QX1204 and 1 Behringer Xenyx Q802, to manage and mix audio signals from various sources.
- Wireless microphones: 2 Shure BLX288 / PG58 M17, to ensure clear and crisp communication with the public and athletes.
- DJ console: 1 Pioneer DJ DDJ-FLX4, to create engaging musical atmospheres and manage entertainment moments.
- Speakers: 2 Behringer B205D, 3 Behringer B1200D Pro, and 5 Behringer B115D, to distribute sound evenly and powerfully throughout the area.
3.2 How did I manage the information flow? (Real-time rankings, race updates, interviews)
Managing the information flow was crucial to keep the audience updated on the race’s progress. A special thanks goes to Alessandro Pedroni, head of the timekeeping service, who provided real-time rankings and online results through the endu.net platform. This allowed for timely communication of race times, gaps, and athlete positions, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and participation.
The interviews with the winners, conducted on the podium immediately after the finish, were an important moment to capture their immediate emotions and share their impressions of the race with the audience. These interviews gave a voice to the protagonists, making the race even more engaging.
3.3 Importance of a well-organized direction for the success of the Event
A well-organized direction was a key element for the success of the 2025 Sinalunga Bike. The coordination between the speaker, the organization, the volunteers, and the service providers ensured an efficient communication flow and optimal management of the Event.
The ability to adapt to changes, such as moving the Awards Ceremony indoors due to rain, demonstrated the professionalism and flexibility of the organization. The direction made it possible to manage every aspect of the Event in the best possible way, creating an unforgettable experience for participants and the public.
4. The post-race – Interviews, awards, acknowledgements
The post-race was a moment of celebration and sharing, an opportunity to gather the emotions of the protagonists and to thank all those who contributed to the success of the Event.
4.1 Interviews with the protagonists
I had the privilege of interviewing the winners and protagonists of the 2025 Sinalunga Bike, gathering their immediate impressions of the race. Each interview was a story of emotions, fatigue, and joy, an opportunity to get to know the stories of these extraordinary athletes up close. We thank the following for granting the interview: Marco Bonino (CM2 ASD), Stefano Valdrighi (Bottecchia Factory Team), Vincenzo Saitta (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Emanuele Spica (Rolling Bike Racing Team), Chiara Vernaccini (Livorno Team Bike ASD), Chiara Tassinari (Team Essere), Cristiana Lippi (Ciclissimo Bike Team), Martina Zoli (ASD Bikefan).
4.2 Moments of the awards ceremony
The awards ceremony was a moment of great emotion, with the audience applauding the protagonists of the day. The rain, which began to fall in the afternoon, forced the organizers to move the awards ceremony indoors, but this did not affect the festive atmosphere.
The awards ceremony began at 1:40 PM, ten minutes after the scheduled time, which allowed the organizers to set up the indoor space in the best possible way. The awards ceremony concluded at 3:20 PM. The top three overall male and female finishers from both courses, the winner of the KOM dedicated to the memory of Roberto Zappalorto, the top three in each category of the Short Course, and the top ten in the Gran Fondo were awarded. Each award was a moment of recognition for the commitment and passion of these athletes.
5. Conclusion – Upcoming Events
5.1 Concluding Summary of the Article
The 31st edition of the Sinalunga Bike concluded with an extremely positive outcome, confirming its position as a leading event in the Italian mountain bike scene. The event was a true festival of off-road cycling, an opportunity to celebrate the passion for this sport and discover the beauty of the Sienese territory.
The races, both the Gran Fondo and the Short Course, offered a thrilling spectacle, with high-level athletes battling on a challenging and technically stimulating course. The numerous and qualified participation, from all over Central Italy, confirmed the appeal of the Sinalunga Bike and its importance in the reference circuits.
The impeccable organization of Donkey Bike Sinalunga ensured the perfect execution of the event, taking care of every detail and offering high-quality services to participants and the public. The atmosphere of celebration and sharing, and the enthusiasm of the volunteers contributed to creating an unforgettable experience for all those present.
The 2025 Sinalunga Bike was a success not only in sports but also in promoting the territory. The event showcased the beauty of the Sienese Valdichiana, its picturesque landscapes, and its traditions, attracting enthusiasts and tourists.
Ultimately, the 31st edition of the Sinalunga Bike was a celebration of sport, the territory, and the passion for off-road cycling, an event that left an indelible mark on the hearts of all participants.
5.2 Upcoming Events in April and early May 2025
- April 19, 20, 21, 2025 2nd Toscana Cup, San Vincenzo (LI). I will be the official voice of the 2nd Toscana Cup, an international youth soccer tournament featuring some of the best European teams.
- May 02, 2025 Castello Di Magrano, Fraz. Carbonesca, Gubbio (PG). On this occasion, I will exclusively provide audio services for a private event at the picturesque Castello di Magrano.
- May 04, 2025 15th Gran Fondo San Pellegrino, Gualdo Tadino (PG). I will return to the atmosphere of MTB Gran Fondos, participating as a speaker at the 15th Gran Fondo San Pellegrino, the 3rd stage of the Umbria Marathon MTB, a circuit I have followed as an official speaker since 2012.
Are you looking for a Speaker for your next Event? Check our Calendar to see if your date is available! Back to Menu
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Tag: Audio, Circuito MTB Maremma Tosco Laziale, Coppa Toscana MTB, Mountain bike, Siena, Sinalunga, Sinalunga Bike, Speaker, Sports Events, Toscana, Tour 3 Regioni.
