Today on the afternoon ride I took out on my TT Benotto bike to Pontedera and I paid a long due visit to Cesare Del Cancia, 91 (or just about): the winner of Milano-San Remo 1937.
An old chap, still lucid and active, spending his days on the ground floor of the house full of so many antique motorcycles, motorscooters, motorbikes and spare parts left over since when he ran a shop,downtown Pontedera. Everything in good order, though indeed a lot down there. Beyond imagination how many engine and transmission spare parts he still keeps in the original drawers that he moved from the shop upon retirement. The very same stuff he hastlysalvaged from rust and rot after the 1967 flood, that did not hit Firenze only, mind you..
Not so quick has Cesare been in salvaging bicycles and bike parts. Not from floods, but from thieves that have later ransacked the lot.
A few bikes he has, still, that you would find of 'some' interest. One is a Bianchi that has belonged to Fausto Coppi and that was bought through Pinella. Yes, from the famous Pinella, and for a lot on money, back then.
I don't think Cesare has ever used this bike; so, he would indeed qualify as an honorary CR member of some kind, one who invests quite a sum to have a toy for the joy to own, look at, admire and caress.
Quite an honor to be let in there, this afternoon. And a pleasure to ride my TT bike back home.
Later
Sergio Pisa
P.s. If someone cares to know. Cesare Del Cancia has been ofered 5000
euros for that
Bianchi bicycles, but turned the offer back.