The Gee-ro’ Show: Giro d’Italia 2023

Photograph: Derek Gee, Canadian born Israel Premier Tech (IPT) rider at the 2023 Giro d’Italia grand tour.

In a dazzling display at the 2023 Giro d’Italia grand tour, Derek Gee, a rider from ISRAEL Premier Tech (IPT), mesmerized cycling enthusiasts around the globe. His electrifying performance even inspired fans to playfully dub this year’s Giro as “The Gee-ro.”

Derek Gee, a 25-year-old Canadian, made significant strides in the competition. He ranked second in both the points and the King of the Mountain classifications, while also securing the 22nd position among 176 competitors in the general classification.

His exceptional performance was particularly evident in four of the tour stages where he finished in second place. Notably, the 19th stage in the breathtaking Dolomites mountains was one of these, where participants had to surmount an altitude gain of 5400m.

Gee’s tenacity also shone through as he bagged two fourth-place finishes. Additionally, he spearheaded the breakaway in seven stages, a feat that led to him being awarded the Most Combative Rider.

Reflecting on his strategy, Gee said, “If I had stayed in the peloton, winning wouldn’t have been possible. So, even though I may have come second a lot, at least I gave myself a chance.” He also expressed immense pride in his team, saying, “We demonstrated what we are truly capable of at this Giro.”

Sebastian Berwick, an Aussie rider from IPT, managed to secure the 70th place in the general classification. Interestingly, IPT’s 2023 Giro team didn’t feature any Israeli cyclists, but it is expected that up to two could be chosen for the upcoming Tour de France this year.

Credit: AJN