Patrick Facchini won Top Dolomites Gran Fondo on Sunday after starting in Pinzolo, Italy and finishing 125 kilometers later atop Madonna di Campiglio in 3:33:43.
The 35 year-old cyclist, and Italian Vertical Kilometer Mountain Running Champion, turned professional in 2013 for team Androni Giocattoli–Venezuela. One year later Facchini tested positive for Tuaminoheptane at the Tour of Belgium, was banned 10 months by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) and had his pro contract terminated.
Facchini then took up competitive mountain running and did not return to cycling – until recently.
After finishing second one week ago at Marcialonga Gran Fondo, Facchini led a Team Sondolm Garda 1-2 finish at Top Dolomites, with UCI Gran Fondo World Champion Stefan Kirchmair taking the silver medal. The team beat some of the best Italian gran fondo riders, including bronze medalist Federico Pozzetto, Thomas Colbrelli, Dutto Pietro and Ski Mountaineering World Champion Nicolini Federico.
Mara Manfredi (MG.K Vis-Dal Colle-Reartù) took the women’s title in 4:16:09, with over a thirteen minute lead on Debora Morri and Oriana Goretti.
Over 1000 cyclists took part in the 5th edition of Top Dolomites Gran Fondo.
Photo Credit: stock
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