Valter Basili's
15-year-old apprentice, Celeste Gasparini, dreams to one day become a professional
cyclist. Influenced by his father, his interest is also aided by Basili,
the local amateur cycling champion. After school, it
is popular for teenagers in Cagli to go to the river for fun, but Gasparini
would rather ride with Basili. He even finds cycling more fun than soccer,
a sport that is popular here among kids his age. Although he finds it difficult
to keep up with Basili during their training sessions, he is still dedicated
-- he trains four or five times a week and rests when he feels tired. Cycling
over 60 kilometers a day, including Cagli's numerous hills, helps strengthen
Gasparini's young legs and improves his racing performance. Already he shows
potential: he has won a few races and always has finished within the first
ten positions. The year 2002 has been a rough year because of accidents
during a competition. Though his role model is pro cyclist Marco Pantani,
Gasparini admires Basili for his genuine dedication to the sport and for
giving it his all. With positive influences, including family support and
a strong internal drive, Celeste Gasparini shows signs of a successful future.
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