# Valerio Zamboni

Valerio Zamboni (born 1954) is an Italian ultra cyclist who is a six-time winner World Ultra-Cycling Association World Cup, Ultramarathon World Champion, and record holder in the Race Across America. He is also a pilot and founder of the business aircraft sales and acquisition company NewJet International.

## Early life

Valerio Zamboni was born to Italian parents, Norina Balestri and Luciano Zamboni, in Emilia Romagna, Italy. He spent his formative years in Bologna, where he received his primary education. Zamboni pursued his education at the International High School of Languages. He became a glider pilot at a young age. After completing his studies at the Liceo Linguistico internazionale, Zamboni's passion for flying led him to pursue a career as a commercial pilot.
At the age of 23, he relocated to Milan to embark on his first pilot job, starting his professional career in the aviation industry. He earned his commercial licenses and started his career as a co-pilot in 1978, flying the Falcon 10 and Falcon 20 for Milan-based charter operator VIP air.
After being a pilot for about 15 years, now Zamboni own a New Jet International company, which became the exclusive sales representative for Bombardier's Business jet line in some European countries.

## Cycling career

Valerio Zamboni was a climbing enthusiast until a severe fall and pelvis reconstruction forced him to stop physical activity. After gaining some weight, Zamboni turned to cycling in 2006 for health reasons. He began practicing at a competition level after undergoing extensive physical and mental training. In 2010, Zamboni participated in his first race, the Sebring, marking the start of his competitive cycling career.
Valerio Zamboni's interest in cycling came relatively late in life, particularly in the field of ultracycling. Nevertheless, he was able to achieve a world championship title, and numerous records showcasing his determination and commitment to the sport. At the age of 57, Valerio Zamboni achieved first the Ultramarathon World Champion title in 2011. His multiple Race around Ireland participations led to a 15-minute short film. Zamboni has set various age category records and received multiple awards, including the Indoor Track Record in Montichiari, Italy in 2017, and the Everesting record in France in 2016. He has participated in the Race Across America 11 times, and completed 7 races, receiving numerous accolades for his accomplishments. He has competed in 9 Races Around Italy and he is the only athlete who has always completed them and therefore has the most finisher's medals.
Race results :
| Year | Event | Category | Position | Time |
| 2011 | Race Around Ireland | Solo Mens | 1st | 131 hrs 36 mins |
| 2011 | Race across America | Solo mens (50-59) | 3rd | 10 days 18 hours, 58 mins |
| 2012 | Race across America | Solo mens (50-59) | 3rd | 11 days 18 hours 1 mins |
| 2014 | Race across America | Solo mens (60-69) | 3rd | 12 days 20 hours 6 mins |
| 2016 | Race across America | Solo mens (60-69) | 1st | 12 days 14 hours 43 mins |
| 2017 | Race Around Ireland | Solo Mens | 1st | 125 hrs 45 mins |
| 2018 | Race across America | Solo mens (60-69) | 1st | 12 days 17 hours 28 mins |
| 2019 | Race across America | Solo mens (60-69) | 2nd | 12 days 12 hours 24 mins |

## World records

Valerio Zamboni Records officially certified by World UltraCycling Association :
| Record Type | Details | Category | Bike Type | Age | Age Group | Start Date |
| Capital to Capital | Monte Carlo, Monaco - Andorra | Solo | Standard | 61 | Men 60-69 | 2015-10-09 |
| Capital to Capital | Monte Carlo, Monaco - San Marino | Solo | Standard | 60 | Men 60-69 | 2014-03-08 |
| Cross Country | Italy E-W | Solo | Standard | 59 | Men 50-59 | 2013-03-09 |
| Cross Country | Italy W-E | Solo | Standard | 58 | Men 50-59 | 2012-03-10 |
| Cross State | Florida E-W | Solo | Standard | 60 | Men 60-69 | 2014-01-18 |
| Cross State | Florida W-E | Solo | Standard | 58 | Men 50-59 | 2012-01-14 |
| Distance | 100 Mile Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |
| Distance | 200 Mile Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |
| Distance | 1000 km Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |
| Timed | 6 Hour Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |
| Timed | 12 Hour Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |
| Timed | 24 Hour Indoor Velodrome | Solo | Standard | 63 | Men 60-69 | 2017-03-18 |

## Personal life

Valerio Zamboni resides in Monaco with his wife, Alessandra Soncini, whom he married in March 2008.