Alfonsina Morini doesn't fit this generation as the new breed of extremely sophisticated seasoned well trained super athletes of today in women's cycling because she comes from a completely different era, way back in the days when bikes were not very good, and roads were often no more then dirt roads but some of her exploits and dedication and passion for the sport is worth mentioning here. She once raced against the men in the Tour of Italy by the request of the race organizers. While she didn't win of course, it must of been quite interesting. In the website below, part of it is in English and will give a brief history of her career.