On the dirt roads: a heartwarming message from Allianz’s Team SuperEroica
The SuperEroica 2026 brought the inclusive cycling project promoted by the Allianz UMANA MENTE Foundation, in collaboration with L’Eroica of Gaiole in Chianti, back to the dirt roads of Chianti. From October 2 to 5, the “Team SuperEroica”—comprising 30 participants, including athletes with disabilities, companions, and support staff—took part in a weekend dedicated to sports and inclusion.
On Sunday, the entire team tackled the 46-kilometer “Passeggiata Valle del Chianti” inclusive route. The day before, some athletes had set out at 6 a.m. to take on the more challenging 136-kilometer “Medio Crete Senesi” route. Two different routes, tackled with the same goal: to ride together and enable everyone to reach the finish line.
The SuperEroica Team was also joined by two Paralympic handbike athletes, Alberto Glisoni and Michele Tassi.
Among the participants was Alberto Glisoni, known as “Il Gliso.” An able-bodied athlete, he chose to compete in the world of handcycling a few years ago. This decision was inspired by his wife, Grazia, who, due to a physical condition, could no longer ride a traditional bicycle and therefore switched to a handbike.
To continue training with her, Alberto purchased a handbike of his own, thus becoming involved in this sport. Over time, he also began raising awareness of handcycling among people without disabilities, showing how handcycling can offer a different way to experience cycling and share in the sport.
Even on the roads of Chianti, Glisoni took part in the experience alongside the other members of the group, sharing routes, challenges, and goals.
To support the athletes, a support team was organized consisting of team doctor Diego Pizzato, a support vehicle, a van for equipment changes and assistance, as well as chaperones and staff.
