Astana launch Scarponi tribute bidons
Astana will pay further tribute to the late Michele Scarponi as the Giro d’Italia heads for the high mountains, with the launch of special-edition bidons that depict Frankje the macaw.
Scarponi was killed in late April when he was hit by a truck on a training ride near his home in Italy. After playing an instrumental role in Vincenzo Nibali’s second overall victory last year, he was set to lead Astana in the absence of Fabio Aru, and the team left his spot in the team empty.
The Giro organisers themselves honoured Scarponi – a former winner, according to official record books – in the race’s 100th edition by naming the Passo del Mortirolo, which provides the appetiser to the double Stelvio ascent on Tuesday’s stage 16, the ‘Cima Scarponi’.
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Frankje, a local macaw, used to accompany Scarponi on training rides and the pair developed a bond, with the relationship capturing public imagination as Scarponi uploaded videos to his social media accounts. On stage 16 Astana riders will use the bidons, which will also be handed out to fans on the road and outside the team bus at the start and finish. Extra bidons will also be given to Scarponi’s fanmily.
“It is just a small thing,” said the team, “but we believe it will help everyone to remember the great champion, Michele Scarponi."
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