Felipe del Rosario, a renowned journalist and figure in Canarian cycling, has recently published his second literary work, titled 'Pedaleando por la Isla / Historia de la Vuelta Ciclista a Gran Canaria'. The book will be officially presented next Wednesday, July 1st, at 12:00 PM at the facilities of the Insular Institute of Sports, located at the Gran Canaria Stadium.
In this publication, Del Rosario aims to encourage readers to take up cycling, whether for tourism or as a legacy for new generations. The author emphasizes that cycling, unlike other sports, takes place on the road, a space sometimes viewed unfavorably by drivers. The book details the history of cycling, noting that in Canary Islands it currently faces challenges due to the density of the vehicle fleet and difficulties in closing roads.
The work includes an exhaustive review of all editions of the Gran Canaria Tour, with its winners and classifications. It also features small reports from personalities who have experienced cycling and an analysis of the history of major international cycling tours, such as the Tour, the Vuelta, or the Giro, including their origins and organizers, who have historically been media outlets.
“"If there is no one to keep these stories, no one will ever remember that the Gran Canaria Tour existed or how it began."
Del Rosario explained that the motivation to write this second book stems from a commitment to Francisco Hernández, the first president of the Canary Islands Cycling Federation, who urged him to preserve the memory of the Gran Canaria Tour. The book also covers the history of emblematic races like the Condado de Vega Grande, considered the most important in the Canary Islands and at a national level.
Regarding the evolution of cycling in the Canary Islands, Del Rosario notes that despite having around 5000 licenses in various disciplines and good overall progress, significant obstacles remain. Obtaining permits to hold road races, involving traffic authorities, police, and municipalities, along with ensuring cleanliness and driver respect, constitutes arduous and often unseen work.
The author is confident that 'Pedaleando por la Isla' will inspire more people to get involved in cycling, recommending the book to encourage the purchase of bicycles and participation in cycling schools. The presentation at the Insular Institute of Sports holds special significance for Del Rosario, who previously presented the mascot for the Vuelta a España there in 2015, an event attended by current minister Ángel Víctor Torres and councilor Aridany Romero.
