Back For Seconds

Stage 4 of the Giro d'Italia from Salerno to Montevergine Di Mercogliano went to Danilo "Killer" DiLuca. It was the second time DiLuca had won a stage that finished in Montevergine, the last being six years ago. It also happened to be the second Maglia Rosa worn by Killer in this year's Giro.

There is little doubt that DiLuca's form makes him a serious contender to finish on the podium. If his ambition is the key determinant to his Giro success, then he looks to be a lock. However, his "all out" riding style left untempered may once again be his downfall, especially with the mountains that loom in this Grand Tour's third week.

One thing is for sure, his type of bravado is certainly refreshing for a sport that lately has seemed too calculating, and for the tifosi that has been beleaguered by doping scandals.

Molto Bello
If our Giro conversation was limited to the beauty of the parcours, Stage 4 may have no rival. Before I was climbing the Tourmalet in 2003, I was basking along the incredible Amalfi coastline. As you can see from the photo I took below, the riders may not have minded navigating the narrow and winding roads from Amalfi to Sorrento as part of yesterday's 153km stage.


Tifosi
If you're not already familiar with the term above, it refers to the Italian cycling fan base. And it also refers to a relatively new (as in not that publicized) brand of sunglasses.

Recently, a friend asked for some advice about cycling/active eyewear. If I were to recommend a brand that has the most "bang for the buck," then the list stops with Tifosi. Most of their eyewear is made from similar materials and technologies that are used in some of the more popular brands of active eyewear, but for half the price. If you're thinking that you'll be sacrificing style for price, you need not worry in that regard. As you can see from the inset image, the Italian fashion industry would be proud of this brand of eyewear that sports the name of their passionate fans.