The news of Gaetano Gazzoli's passing has stirred great emotions, and Vincenzino Santoni wanted to share a personal memory of his departed friend.

"Gaetano, you transmitted the passion for cycling to all of us: I was a small child, son of farmers, my father and uncles would donate a quintal of wheat for the Gran Premio Capodarco, you were in the heart of my entire family and together we shared the passion for cycling. At 15, I started racing, you were the 'race radio' for all the races I participated in, across the Marche, Abruzzo, and Romagna. Your radio commentaries exalted me and thanks to you, I savored the joy of several victories. Then I pursued the path of cycling teams, from the youth category, until reaching the professionals, you were always close to me, giving me always wise advice. I remember the many pranks I played on you and those you played on me, I remember what we did together with Adriano De Zan, making you believe that Banesto would race at Capodarco. I remember the threats you made me receive from an anonymous person, scaring me and canceling an appointment with a beautiful woman. In short, Gaetano, so many memories, so many jokes, so much collaboration to organize more and more cycling events... until this last joke of yours, you wanted to leave without a second thought, you wanted to embark on the long journey towards a new life, you'll meet many cycling enthusiasts and many cyclists you followed in earthly life.

Goodbye, my friend Gaetano, one day we'll all meet again and continue to rejoice talking about cycling. You'll always be in my heart, rest in peace and you'll see that Simone will carry on the Gran Premio Capodarco with honor, making you happy. You'll always remain inside me, thank you for everything you gave and taught me".