Pro cyclists competing in the 2012 Giro d'Italia could start the race by weaving around the monuments of the United States capital in a fabulous prologue.

Officials hoping to start the race in the District of Columbia are hosting a reception Thursday night at the Italian embassy. Some media outlets reported that Giro officials will in fact announce the D.C. start, but people supporting the city's bid say the evening is simply a party.

Like the Tour de France, the Giro d'Italia covers more than 2,000 miles during three weeks of heart pounding and intensive riding.

The 2010 edition of the Giro d'Italia will start in and around Amsterdam in the Netherlands, then cyclists will fly to Italy for the remainder of the three-week race.

The 2011 route for the Giro will be announced later this year.