“Wheels of Courage” is an online tribute honoring the extraordinary wartime heroism of Gino Bartali, the legendary Italian cyclist and Righteous Among the Nations. Famous for his Tour de France and Giro d’Italia victories, Bartali risked everything during World War II to save Jews, smuggling forged documents hidden inside his bicycle frame across Nazi-occupied Italy. He carried out these heroic acts in silence, never seeking praise or recognition.

This special event will commemorate Bartali’s vital role in the Italian resistance, highlight the brave alliance between Jewish and Catholic rescue networks, and inspire reflection on the timeless power of moral courage and interfaith solidarity.

On July 7, 2013 Yad Vashem recognized Gino Bartali as Righteous Among the Nations.

We celebrate heroes like Gino Bartali not only to honor their memory, but to remind ourselves of the responsibility we bear today. At a time when antisemitism is again on the rise, in schools, in politics, in public discourse, their legacy serves as a call to action. Their stories challenge us to speak out, to resist hatred in all forms, and to act with conscience, humility, and courage.

In addition to honoring Bartali, this year’s tribute will include a special segment in memory of the Israeli cyclists murdered in the October 7th terrorist attacks. Family members of these athletes will share the stories of their loved ones, and representatives from the Maccabiah Games will join us to pay tribute to their lives, passion, and the enduring spirit of the global Jewish athletic community.

We celebrate heroes like Gino Bartali not only to honor their memory, but because in the darkest chapter of Jewish history, he chose to stand on the right side of humanity and in doing so, helped rewrite history. He reminds us that even in times of terror and despair, one person’s courage, clarity, and conscience can make all the difference.

Today, as antisemitism reaches its highest levels since the Holocaust, Bartali’s legacy is more relevant than ever. His life calls on us to stand firm against hatred, to act with moral conviction, and to refuse silence in the face of injustice.

“Good is something you do, not something you talk about.” – Gino Bartali