Valencia, dozens of volunteer cyclists bring help with their bikes (and “our” Stefano Garzelli is also mobilizing)

The recent tragedy caused by devastating floods which hit the region Valenciawith over two hundred victims and thousands of people in difficulty, pushed dozens of cyclists to join in an action of extraordinary solidarity.

Faced with unprecedented devastation that has sadly highlighted the effects of climate change, numerous neighborhoods and towns have been affected submerged by water, mud and debrismaking it impossible for traditional emergency vehicles to transit.

To respond to this emergency, the cyclist Juan Dual launched a unique initiative, involving volunteers on bikes to reach the most isolated areas. Dual, known for its social commitment, has gathered cyclists from all over the areacreating a real rescue network on two wheels.

The volunteers they carry basic necessities such as food, milk and diaperscrossing roads that are impassable for other vehicles, demonstrating that gravel bikes and mountain bikes can make a difference where other means fail, as happened in Emilia after the floods with enduro riders who brought medicines and food on motorbikes to those who were left isolated.

The coordination center for these interventions is located at Espai La Rambleta, a cultural space transformed into a logistics base. Here the cyclists collect the donated goods, form groups of five or ten people and, following the instructions of the local associations, they leave for the most needy areas.

Mobilization requires great organisation: it is necessary to avoid chaos and ensure that every intervention is targeted. Cyclists themselves must protect yourself with gloves and masks to avoid diseases transmitted by contaminated water and from the waste that has accumulated in the streets.

The former cycling champion Stefano Garzelli and his fundraiser

Another important initiative was started by the former cycling champion Stefano Garzelliwinner of the Giro d’Italia in 2000. Born in Varesino, Garzelli has lived for years a few kilometers from Valencia where he founded a cycling school for children aged 4 to 15.

He too responded promptly to the crisis, driven by one’s experience previous flood that destroyed his home ten years ago. This time, Garzelli was luckier, managing to protect both his home and the school thanks to preventive structures against water and mud.

Aware of the gravity of the situation, Garzelli has launched an appeal for fundraisingaimed at the world of cycling and the local community, to provide affected families with food and basic necessities and concretely support those who have lost everything. Anyone who wishes can donate at this link.

Two initiatives, like those we have already told you about the farmers who took to the streets armed with tractors, off-road vehicles and makeshift tools to clear the roads of mud and the solidarity competition of the volunteers – who came in their thousands to help – which still remind us once like unity is strength. An unprecedented mobilization for an unprecedented catastrophe because “only el pueblo saves el pueblo”.