Giro d'Italia

The Giro d'Italia is a famous bicycle race around Italy, nowadays consisting of approximately 20 stages over a similar number of days. The race, first held in 1909, is usually run over a distance of around 3500 kilometres. Although the majority of the race takes place in Italy, some stages usually take place in other countries as well. Along with the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España, the Giro d'Italia is one of cycling's Grand Tours, the three most significant stage races in the world. In 2012 the Giro d'Italia started in Denmark. Winner was Canadian cyclist Ryder Hesjedal.