Peter Sagan, guest of honor, explains: "Many professionals live in Monaco and it is an absolute privilege to have them all lined up to support the important messages of the event year after year. Logistically, it is easily accessible, so many people come to meet their idols and cheer for them along the route. Beking was a fantastic idea, started well and now in its fourth edition, it can only improve. I always enjoy being here. Even though I did not race now, it was important to be here to support the cause."
Despite the inclement weather,
the atmosphere was electrifying, giving fans moments of pure adrenaline, with the group of internationally famous riders battling at some strategic points of the circuit. Porto S.Hercule was the pulsating heart of the event with a succession of activities: from the Pro-Am, where amateurs could challenge their idols, to the 50 extremely brave youngsters who were not intimidated by the weather, and concluding with the professional criterium.
This year too, the event confirmed itself as an important event in the cycling landscape, managing to meet expectations as confirmed by Matteo Trentin at the end of the Criterium: "This year we were put to the test by the weather, but my colleagues and sponsors did not leave us alone. We could not be more grateful for their participation. We wanted to reduce the number of laps but not the show. This morning we all gathered and unanimously decided to race anyway. It was fantastic, an invaluable atmosphere. We brought it home. I am happy."
Echoing him is Claudia Morandini, co-founder and owner of CMT: "We are at the fourth edition and we had not yet challenged the difficulties of the weather. It was not very easy, but now I am more relaxed because it went for the best. The riders were absolutely incredible and no one held back. There were understandably fewer people on the route, but the enthusiasts did not make us lack their support. It was beautiful to see that solidarity did not stop."
Also satisfied is Romy Gai, President of AWE International and an active part of the event from the first moment: "I truly believe it is possible to do many more editions of Beking because the enthusiasm and passion, both from fans and athletes, is extraordinary. You can see that they are having fun and dedicating a day to doing good. Every year we have had great participation from champions, to name just a few Peter Sagan, Elia Viviani, Tadej Pogacar. A winning mix: passion and participation for an event that does good and well, the weather was not on our side but everything went as we hoped."
Beking thus closes with a positive balance, giving an appointment to next year for another engaging edition. However, the project does not stop. In fact, the proceeds from the auction - scheduled this evening during the usual dinner - will be donated to awareness and education projects of Beking's partner associations.
Until next November.