BGY Airport Granfondo: The Eugenio Mercorio Time Trian, a Challenge Within the Challenge from Nembro to Selvino

On Sunday, May 4, the special uphill time trial returns, honoring the memory of a great friend of the Granfondo.

The climb from Nembro to Selvino is the most iconic and representative section of the BGY Airport Granfondo, the international cycling event scheduled for Sunday, May 4, 2025, in Bergamo, under the aegis of the Italian Cycling Federation.

Known as the “climb of champions,” this route is a tribute to Bergamo’s cycling history: each of its 19 hairpin bends is dedicated to a local champion who has left a mark on the sport. Despite not reaching high altitudes, the Selvino climb is among the most scenic in Lombardy, thanks to its series of panoramic switchbacks and the sparse vegetation in its final stretch, offering breathtaking views of the valley. The gradient remains steady and never extreme, making it suitable for both rouleurs and those who are not pure climbers. However, two sections present a steeper challenge: at km 0.7 with a 9.5% gradient and at km 4.3 with a peak of 10%. The road surface is in excellent condition, and the roadway is wide along the entire climb.

For the past twelve years, during the Granfondo, this climb has been dedicated to the memory of Eugenio Mercorio, a chartered accountant and passionate cyclist. Highly respected for his professionalism and beloved for his human qualities, Mercorio shared his love for cycling with many friends, riding these roads and the mountains of Bergamo. In his honor, the “Eugenio Mercorio Time Trial” is held – a race within the race – where participants can challenge themselves on this legendary ascent.

The time trial climb starts from Via Torquato Tasso in Nembro (325 m a.s.l.), after 44 km from the race start, and ends in Corso Gabriele Camozzi in Selvino (946 m a.s.l.), after 56.2 km. From there, riders will still have 33.3 km to complete the short route, 72.6 km for the medium route, and 105.9 km for the long route. The fastest recorded ascent belongs to former professional cyclist Manuel Senni, who set the benchmark in the 2022 edition with a time of 25’21”8.

HOW TO REGISTER?

Participants can register through the official event website www.granfondobgy.it or at the GMS organizing office, located at Via G. Da Campione, 24/c – 24124 Bergamo (tel. +39 035.211721).

Registration deadline: Saturday, April 12, 2025.