They say the third time’s the charm, and Bart Classens is hoping that’s true as he gears up for the 2024 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The Dutchman, now in his third appearance at Italy’s premier MTB stage marathon, will take on 400 km and 13,000 meters of elevation gain, from Bologna—coming off its showcase in the Tour de France Grand Départ—to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, in Emilia Romagna.

The season didn’t start as planned for Classens, who was forced to withdraw from the Cape Epic due to health issues. But since May, he’s been back on track, competing in two stages of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series in Megève and Nove Mesto. Now, with momentum on his side, he’s aiming for the podium, determined to improve on last year’s near-miss and his runner-up finish in 2021. Among his fiercest competitors will be his fellow countryman and reigning champion, Hans Becking.

“I’m focused on being in the best shape possible to contend for a top spot in the General Classification. But I’ll also be on the lookout for stage wins—especially after my 2021 Queen Stage victory at Cerreto Laghi, during that unforgettable storm. That’s a memory I’ll always cherish.”

Classens’ return to Appenninica is part of a broader trend, as many riders find themselves drawn back year after year. It’s not just the challenge that brings them back—it’s the stunning landscapes, the rich flavors, and the warm hospitality of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.

“To me, this is the best stage race out there. The atmosphere among the riders and the support from the staff make it something special, and that’s why I keep coming back.”

Dutch riders have always had a strong presence at Appenninica, and 2024 is no different. Once again, the Dutch contingent will be the largest in the race, with no less than 20 riders at the start.

“In the Netherlands, we don’t have mountains, so we have to seek them out elsewhere. Many Dutch cyclists head to Lake Garda or Tuscany, but Emilia-Romagna is just as special. The mountains and trails here are stunning, with remote, untouched areas that are perfect for cycling.”

Over the six stages and 400 km from Bologna to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, riders will have plenty of opportunities to explore this beautiful region and fight for the win.

“After the first two stages, we’ll have a clearer idea of who’s in contention.” But one thing’s for sure—Classens is more determined than ever to make this year’s Appenninica MTB Stage Race his best yet.

Castelnovo ne’ Monti has become a familiar and symbolic home for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 2-7, 2024). Since the race’s inception, this town in the Province of Reggio Emilia has consistently hosted at least one stage start or finish. As a result, the Bismantova Rock has emerged as the iconic symbol of this premier Italian MTB stage race.

After a grueling week that will test the limits of the competing athletes, the Appenninica caravan will arrive in the historic lands of Matilde di Canossa. The Mountain Queen Stage, scheduled for Friday, September 6th, is set to be a decisive challenge. Spanning 86 km with a total elevation gain of 2850 meters, this stage could completely overturn the standings established thus far.

The stage begins in Fiumalbo and immediately presents a daunting 20 km uphill stretch that leads into the high altitudes of the Apennines via forest roads. While the breathtaking views of the Emilia-Romagna Apennine ridge may tempt distraction, competitors must stay focused as the course alternates between relentless climbs and descents, culminating in a challenging downhill run towards the finish in Castelnovo ne’ Monti.

The final stage, taking place on Saturday, September 7th, 2024, is a loop that starts and finishes in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Dubbed “Windy Way Home,” this stage winds through the Monte Ventasso area within the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine National Park, covering 58 km and an elevation gain of 1600 meters. While the first half of the stage is known for its scenic beauty, the course becomes more technical after reaching Lake Calamone, with a predominantly downhill route leading to the final finish line, where riders will receive the coveted finisher’s medal.

“Hosting the Appenninica MTB Stage Race has become an important and cherished tradition for Castelnovo ne’ Monti,” says Emanuele Ferrari, Mayor of Castelnovo ne’ Monti. “Once again, riders from all over the world will have the opportunity to discover our region, renowned for its natural beauty and scenic routes. From the Pietra di Bismantova in the National Park of the Apennines to the Triassic Gypsum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ridges of Monte Cusna and Monte Ventasso, Castelnovo is an ideal destination for cycling.”

CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI: IN THE LANDS OF MATILDE DI CANOSSA

Castelnovo ne’ Monti and its surrounding areas are rich in history and legend, beginning with the Pietra di Bismantova, which is said to have inspired Dante’s vision of Purgatory during his visit in 1306, as referenced in Canto IV of Purgatorio in the Divine Comedy. The area is also home to several fortresses and castles once belonging to the powerful Matilde di Canossa, built between the 10th and 12th centuries.

The town’s historic center, with its medieval origins, has recently been renovated, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past. Among its landmarks is the Ducal Palace, nestled within the green gardens of Bagnolo. Built by the Este family as a symbol of their dominion, the palace now serves as an annex of the Municipality.

One of the new highlights of the 2023 edition, Fiumalbo has been confirmed as stage venue in the 2024 Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 2-7), the most important Italian mountain bike stage race. This picturesque town in the Province of Modena, located near the Tuscany border, will be home of the race’s mid-stages, hosting the finish of the third stage, the start and finish of the fourth, and the start of the fifth stage.

On Wednesday, September 4, stage 3 will challenge the riders with a 59 km route featuring 2600 meters of elevation gain from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fiumalbo, traversing some of the most iconic ridgelines of the Apennines. From the Corno alle Scale area to Monte Cimone (with a much cherished KOM at Lago Scaffaiolo), this stage could offer crucial insights into the race’s final outcome. Despite the relatively short distance, the elevation profile rivals only the Queen Stage, making it the first litmus test for those aiming for the overall victory.

On Thursday, September 5, Fiumalbo will be the absolute protagonist of the day, hosting both the start and finish of the 55 km “Tuscan Borderline” stage with 1950 meters of elevation gain. As in 2023, this stage crosses into Tuscany, featuring sections through Sant’Anna Pelago and along the historic Via Vandelli, an 18th-century route between Mantua and Lucca, leading to the Alpe di San Pellegrino pass at 1600 meters above sea level. Here, a new ridgeline will fill the hearts and eyes of the athletes with breathtaking views of the entire Apennines, the Apuan Alps, and the Pisa Mountains—a perfect respite before descending and recovering in preparation for the Queen Stage.

On Friday, September 6, Fiumalbo will bid farewell to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race as it hosts the start of the much-anticipated Mountain Queen Stage. This most feared stage, with its 87 km distance and 2850 meters of total elevation gain, will lead the peloton to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, home of the race’s grand finale.

“It is a great pleasure for Fiumalbo to be a stage venue for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race again this year. Our village will be involved in three stages (two finishes and two starts), and we are delighted to be part of this internationally growing project. This will be an extraordinary showcase for our area, an opportunity to be remembered not only for our natural beauty but also for the hospitality and warmth of our residents“, said Alessio Nizzi, Mayor of Fiumalbo.

FIUMALBO: NATURE AND BEAUTY

Listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy and awarded with the Italian Touring Club’s orange flag for its tourist-environmental qualities for 23 consecutive years, Fiumalbo is part of the Frignano Park, straddling the Monte Cimone and Abetone areas. It’s no coincidence that the third stage, starting from Lizzano in Belvedere, is named “Monte Cimone Challenge XL,” and the fourth stage, looping around Fiumalbo, is called “Tuscan Borderline.”

Known as the “Celtic Village,” Fiumalbo features a varied landscape ranging from 800 meters above sea level along the Scoltenna stream to 2165 meters at the summit of Monte Cimone. This geographic diversity makes it a coveted destination for other outdoor activities throughout the year, such as trekking and ski mountaineering. Food lovers should not miss the typical borlenghi with lard and cured meats.