Primes

What’s the bell-ringing all about?

The bell signals to racers and spectators that there will be a sprint contest (or “prime,” pronounced preem) for money or prizes when racers cross the start/finish line on the NEXT lap. Spectators, including local businesses can donate a prize by handing the announcer cash during the race. Primes don’t have an effect on the final standings, but racers love to compete for them. It creates a sprint within the race and causes the speed of the whole pack to increase, making it more exciting and challenging.

Businesses who have contributed primes to the 2011 Giro are: