Thanks Commendatore.

The inventor of the quick release and the modern day derraileur, Tullio Campagnolo was born on this day in 1901. Innovator and relentless entrepreneur, Tullio created a legacy with his components, always pushing the boundaries of innovation and design.

The great Eddy Merckx, who used Campagnolo's components throughout his career gave this touching  eulogy at his funeral.

''Dear Commendatore Campagnolo:

On behalf of the cyclists all over the world, of those known or unknown, I address to you from this square of this church a touched good-bye. You deserve to belong to our life's memories because, rider like us, you have known our fatigue, and you have helped us.

You have done it with that generous intelligence that was the fruit of your goodness as man and as entrepreneur.

You have been the most faithful and precious of our helpers. You arrived first for seven times, with me, to the goal of the Milano-Sanremo; you were with me under the snow the day I was climbing victorious, the road of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo. I shared with you every success.

In telling you good-bye in the name of all the presents and of those who regret not being here, I wish to repeat an act of faith heard in this church.

You will remain with us, riders of all ages and of all classes, as a dear and unforgettable road fellow. A good friend.

I tell it to you in a bad italian, maybe, but with an italian heart because, thanks to you, there is a piece of italy with your name on all the bicycles of the world.

Your memory will remain with us.

Good-bye"