“Was My First World Cup” – 32-Year-Old Italian Cyclist Shares Throwback Tales from Unlikely Yet Career-Changing Victory at Trofeo Alfreda Binda

With historic pedals on cycling tracks, Italian professional Elisa Longo Borghini recently shared candid highlights from a prior victory. Standing as a formidable force in saddleback tournaments, the 32-year-old marked her dominance at the 2013 Trofeo Alfreda Binda. While her achievements reached beyond the iconic Paris-Roubaix Femmes, she also elaborated on her gaming goals. 

Etching fruitful pedals in every cycling event, Borghini won many other podium spots in 2022, with a prestigious Paris-Roubaix cobblestone trophy to her name. While she joined the elite ranks of classic riders like Peter Sagan, Eddy Merckx, and Tom Boonen, the defining moment of her career unfolded far earlier. Shrouded in rainy tracks, the pro athlete recalled moments from seizing these global accolades. 

Cycling sensation elaborates on winning global title

With vivid cycling insights from winning over a decade ago, Borghini faced sudden turning points that would eventually shape her trajectory in the sport. While the Trofeo Alfreda Binda marked her first World Cup victory, she also earned her second triumph as an elite rider. 

After 10 days of easy rides because of a calf muscle issue, she then entered the cycling race with no pressure. In a game characterized by wet descents and challenging conditions, Borghini was seen making a decisive move that effectively sealed her victory. 

Attacking on the downward routes, the spirited athlete left her competitors behind. In a candid note, she remembered this audacious cycling venture as Borghini remarked, “It was a very cold, rainy and gray day,” adding, “Was my first World Cup.” Significantly, she further claimed, “I was just delighted to win the race, I was really not expecting it.” 

With only Amanda Spratt managing to follow briefly, the final climb also saw her dropping Spratt and reaching the finish line. While cycling through freezing conditions, Borghini noted feeling overwhelmed by the joy of this unexpected yet prestigious triumph.

The aftermath of the exhilarating win 

While her cycling journey extended beyond the peloton, she transitioned from Hitec Products UCK to later becoming teammates with seasoned riders. Joining hands with players she once competed against, Borghini’s career evolved at Trek-Segafredo, followed by her inclusivity in the Lidl-Trek crew. 

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As a cycling professional who conquered both the roads and virtual landscapes, Borghini further delved into gaming. Showcasing her multifaceted persona, she remembered sipping recovery drinks on the podium. In the aftermath of this challenging ride, she vividly narrated heading to a restaurant with family and indulging in not one but two pizzas. 

In retrospect, the 2013 Trofeo Alfreda Binda cycling landmark was more than a win for Elisa Longo Borghini; it became a realization of her true potential. From braving the surrounding elements to embracing her electrifying victory, her story resonated with sheer perseverance in sporting attempts. 

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