Local phenom Antonio Rossi just won the Junior 17-18 national IP! This makes me feel all sorts of things, but mostly elated, and proud. He also got second in the points and third overall in the ominum.
He is the number one kid that I am scared of at TNR. Most of the time I can make the selection with him, but me and others (incl. local pros, USA crits types) are just getting spanked since he seems to be able to lift the pace or attack at will from a full gas paceline. I've ridden a number of key selections/breaks with him in road bike racing scenarios as well. When I'm going really good (for me), I like to think that he's someone that he can count on to drive a move. Certainly not a threat, so maybe someone he enjoys having around haha
I've watched this kid for about 4 years now and I remember when he was barely hanging on in the A's. Pre-pandemic he was already a little scary, and his dad (also a racer, seen below cheering) would LMK when I had to worry about him or not. He is focused on his schooling and has other activities that he participates in too, and seems to be able to whip himself up into top shape with a few weeks of training.
He's a real talent, and now it confirms my suspicions that he is world-class. Between his cycling and other pursuits (pun intended), I'm quite excited to see what's next for Antonio!
Father Andrea cheering in the foreground