Sun, enthusiasm, and unprecedented participation framed an extraordinary edition of BEKING, once again capable of uniting professional athletes, enthusiasts, and families, confirming its unique spirit: supporting youth and promoting cycling as a healthy, sustainable, and inclusive lifestyle.
"This year, the sun accompanied us once again, illuminating a day we will carry in our hearts for a long time," says Claudia Morandini. "I felt profound relief and sincere joy in being able to offer children, the public, and athletes a day capable of leaving a mark. Seeing women on the track was truly a significant moment: thanks to Elena and Urškas, we were able to welcome extraordinary athletes, driven by contagious enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility towards this project. I am grateful and proud: no one held back, everyone put their talent and heart into it. And the children, at the center of everything, were able to breathe an atmosphere of inspiration, energy, and authentic happiness."
Twenty-four high-intensity kilometers, overtakes, breakaways, and continuous rhythm changes animated the women's criterium, contested over 20 total laps. The athletes offered a passionate show, keeping the audience in suspense until the final acceleration that saw Lorena Wiebes crossing the finish line ahead of Kasia Niewiadoma and Anna Trevisi. "I really enjoyed BEKING," says winner Lorena Wiebes. "In the Netherlands, criteriums are very common since junior levels, and it's exciting to participate in an event like this in a city like Monaco: it's truly special to race here. The race was enlivened by many breakaways, I think it was beautiful to watch. On the uphill section after the finish line, I attacked and managed to create the decisive gap. It went well, I'm very happy."
Kasia Niewiadoma adds: "I'm thrilled to have been part of the event. It's my first time here, and I think the idea of combining sport and charity is fantastic. Pedaling while contributing to an important cause is incredible: we should do this more often. The organization was excellent, we felt safe and supported. I can't wait to enjoy the rest of the day."
The 35 laps of the men's criterium (48 km) provided a succession of attacks, gap comebacks, and high-level tactical maneuvers. The 35 athletes in the race created an intense challenge, applauded by the numerous spectators along the entire circuit. "This is my second BEKING event, and I'm once again enthusiastic," affirms winner Jonathan Milan. "There were so many people supporting the event, and it's good to see how cycling can unite so many people, especially considering it's not a real race but an event that combines sport, fun, and social projects, bringing young people closer to bicycles. The race was very intense, with a sustained pace from the beginning. In the end, I managed to prevail against an incredible Tadej (Pogačar) and the local favorite Victor (Langellotti). I had a lot of fun."
Among the most engaging moments of the fifth edition, the Pro-Am once again brought together professionals and amateurs in a format that combines competition, team spirit, and solidarity. Cohesive teams, brilliant pace, and great participation transformed the trial into a show within the show.
Dedicated activities, technical trials, and pump track animated a Village des Enfants full of enthusiasm and smiles. The "Draw Speedy on a Bike" contest collected numerous drawings, becoming an open-air gallery that colored Port Hercule.
On the podium, amid applause and emotion, the athletes were awarded trophies signed by Varisco Cristalli, which helped celebrate sporting performances and team spirit. "I must say it's fantastic to see so many people along the route," comments Matteo Trentin. "We're at the fifth edition: people now know and await BEKING, and they supported us. It's a nice moment to be close to fans during a period when the season is stopped. Seeing so many children pedaling - despite the not-so-warm climate - shows how much fun they had, and that's exactly our goal. I thank my colleagues for their support and the sponsors who, year after year, allow us to return to the streets of Monaco with an event that gives us great satisfaction."
Beking 2025 closes with a day full of sport and participation. An event capable of making cycling a common language that speaks of sustainability, movement, and community. With this energy, the gaze is already turned towards the next edition: ready to pedal together again.
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