The 6 Giorni Delle Rose was held in Fiorenzuola D'Arda Italy. July 1-6. This was the 80th anniversary of the race on the 400m concrete velodrome.. Previous winners include Sylvio Martinello, Bruno Risi and Mario Cipolini who was one of the more fashionable stars of the Tour de France.
This was the first time Mark MacDonald (Calgary, AB) and Daniele Defranceschi (Waterloo, ON) partnered together for the Madison. Two days before racing started, they tested their legs and exchanges behind the motor bike and after 15min, the former rivals knew they were a good combination.
Their best results were all on Day 6 with a 5th In the Madison flying lap where they showed impressive leg speed. MacDonald finished 6th in the scratch and Defranceschi was 7th in the Miss & out and the combined points race.
The two Canadians are looking to gain experience and racing against 20 teams, including World Cup and Olympic athletes, at an international event is a solid stepping stone. The pair are looking to become a part of the Canadian National Team that will compete in the World Cups starting in October.
Courtesy Daniele Defranceschi
