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20 May 2006

Giro Casting Call

Like a good movie that, after endless previews, is finally about to begin, the start of this year's real Giro d'Italia requires a quick run through the cast.

La Maglia Rosa: Ivan Basso

Mr. Basso previously starred in such feature-length films as "Giro '05" and "Tour '04," though always as an understudy. Finally, he not only has a leading role but a vehicle which appears to be built completely around his character. Stardom awaits him in Milan.

La Maglia Ciclamino: Paolo Savoldelli

A surprise role for him, as the former star of such films as "Giro '05" and "Giro '02" has been auditioned for several other roles, even the lead, before settling into the supporting cast. Look for him to be featured prominently in stage 13's closing scene, though he may get less screen time after that.

The Challengers: Tom Danielson, Damiano Cunego, Gilberto Simoni, Serhiy Honchar, José Enrique Gutierrez

This group's role, while not pivotal, is intended to provide a modicum of difficulty to Basso's journey through the film. They will take turns shadowing Basso, making him sweat, but none of them will figure prominently in the story arc. All are recognizable names, even potential leading men... in another film.

The Praetorian Guard: Carlos Sastre, Jens Voigt, Iñigo Cuesta, Bobby Julich

These are actually non-speaking roles, though they will appear on screen often in the company of Basso, doing what they can to protect him from evil. Though they each have resumes of their own, these days they're found at Central Casting in the Cycling Hard-man Lounge.

The Jesters: Jose Rujano, Paolo Bettini

Unlike the challengers, these guys will make appearances only for comic relief, centered around the futility of their quests. Whether in contract negotiations or on screen, these guys always end the scene by tearing out their hair.

The Father Figure: Bjarne Riis

This role is usually reserved in major motion pictures for Johan Bruyneel, but times change and the Industry has to roll with it. Riis, as the warm-yet-demanding, Tom Bosley-type dad, has reshaped the role from Bruyneel's smooth, savvy character to give it a homespun charm.

The Voice-Over: Anthony McCrossand

Seizing the mantle from longtime star Phil Liggett (now just making guest appearances), McCrossand is making his first attempt to provide narration to a major film. He's been auditioning all spring on the Cycling.tv web-streams with his sidekick Brian Smith, and has built a loyal following in the USA and Britain. Probably the start of something big.
- Chris, PodiumCafe.com

89th Giro d'Italia, 6 - 28 May
Main, Startlist, Classifications, Giro Favorites
Stages and Maps, Key Stages, Overall Map
Photos, The Dust Devil's Daily Wrap
Aaron Olson and Saunier Duval-Prodir Updates
2005 Giro d'Italia

20 May News ...