Bono takes second pro win from San Giacomo to Châtel-Sur-Monsalvens

By Gregor Brown

Italian Matteo Bono has taken his second professional win by crossing the line of Friday's Tour de Romandie stage three to Carmey ahead of be Japanese Fumiyuki Beppu (Discovery Channel) and compatriot Marco Pinotti (T-Mobile). The 23 year-old has only won twice since turning pro early this year but the wins have been dramatic.

Back in March the Lampre-Fondital rider took win number one on Tirreno-Adriatico's queen stage. He finished first on the top San Giacomo, 1,105 metres above sea level, after an escape that was started at kilometre 16. In similar fashion, he joined yesterday's move after only five kilometres, however, he and Beppu had to chase down Pinotti, who attacked the smooth-working escape with 20 kilometres remaining.

"Right from the start there were attacks and counter-attacks," recalled the rider from Brescia to La Gazzetta dello Sport. "After five kilometres we were together. At first they would not let us go and then they resigned; and we took 18 to 19 minutes of an advantage." Bono and 'Fumi' had to pull back 'Pino.'

Bono explained that he had studied the finish. "I knew the arrival was a light ascent. Pinotti has used a lot of energy, and Beppu seemed to me to be tiring."

He now has two pro wins in two big events (both ProTour) but is not letting it go to his head. "Giro or Tour? No, not yet. I don't feel quite ready, I don't have the proper base," Bono continued. "I have to be a complete cyclist, 360 degrees, 365 days a year. I know in this sport there are no gifts."

In fact, in the Giro d'Italia, starting next week, he will be working for 2004 winner Damiano Cunego. "I am a domestique, and I will remain a domestique." He did not want to think of when the next win could come but only focus on helping his team. "I can't imagine the next. I will put my self at the disposal of the team."

(For more on Bono, read Matteo Bono makes mark in Tirreno.)