Regardless of the communication and the neutralisation, or not as the case may be, of the descent, the record books will only show a maiden Giro d’Italia stage win for Nairo Quintana and the Cima Coppi prize, for cresting the Stelvio first, for Team Sky’s Dario Cataldo.

For the latter, as an Italian, it is a hugely prestigious honour and one that is fully deserved too.

While Sky’s search for a stage win at this year’s race goes on – Cataldo having come closest when Enrico Battaglin (Bardiani-CSF) edged him out on stage 14 – it certainly ensured the team’s Giro has not been a failure.

Cataldo’s solo ride up the Stelvio was incredible, as was his display of descending skill on the other side. The stage win always looked a step too far, particularly with the Val Martello still to come, but he proved at least he has the skill and the daring to be considered a serious contender for some of the stages to come.