Marco Pantani, leader of the general classification since the 14th stage finished first on the top of Oropa on the 30th of May in 1999.
The ascent leading to the Sanctuary of Oropa (Santuatio di Oropa) introduced to Giro d’Italia in 1963. Vico Taccone reached the top first. In 1993, Massimo Ghirotto was the fastest cyclist.
It was only the third time in 1999, that the ascent was included in the program of Giro d’Italia. But most likely it became the most memorable occasion.
Leader of the general classification, Marco Pantani had a mechanical problem with 10 km to go. He lost half a minute, but his team helped him back. When he attacked with 3 km to go, he did not know, that he went away from the leading group ( including Laurent Jalabert, Ivan Gotti and Roberto Heras), he thaught, there is another group out there to chase. Thus when he crossed the finish line, he did not celebrate his stage victory.
Pantani extended his lead after the stage and remained in the pink jersey still the penultimate day. He was disqualified for an excessive hematocrit level before the 21st stage.