From Iberia to Italy: Xinxó and Carpinteiro set to tackle Appenninica MTB Stage Race

Two of the Iberian Peninsula’s accomplished mountain biking marathoners, Ada Xinxó Morera and Celina Carpinteiro, are preparing for their debut at the grueling Appenninica MTB Stage Race, set to unfold from September 2-7, 2024 in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region.

The names Ada Xinxó Morera and Celina Carpinteiro are well-known in the MTB Marathon world of Spain and Portugal. The two athletes, who have competed together in various marathons over the years and often achieved prestigious results, will take on the adventure of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race for the first time this year.

Milton Ramos has been telling me about the Appenninica MTB Stage Race for years,” says Spanish rider Ada Xinxó Morera. “He participated once and then returned, which means he found good organization and a beautiful course. It was on my wish list, and here I am.

Celina Carpinteiro, a four-time Portuguese MTB Marathon national champion, was also introduced to the world of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race by some friends.

They told me about the beautiful courses in this stage race, the good organization, and the wonderful atmosphere. For me, these are three key ingredients for the success of an event like this,” explains the Portuguese rider.

The two athletes are also aware of the intensity of the challenge ahead: with 400 km and a total elevation gain of 13,000 meters, the race through the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna is one of the toughest mountain bike stage races on the international scene.

I expect a tough race, but also fun trails and breathtaking landscapes,” says Celina Carpinteiro. “I hope to make new friends and have the time to explore the stage towns, immersing myself a bit in Italian culture. I can’t wait to become part of the Appenninica Family.

 

What I’m looking forward to in this experience is enjoying new trails and places, meeting new people, and reconnecting with fellow racers from past events,” adds Ada Xinxó Morera. “I know the stages will be tough, but I’ll fully enjoy this adventure, and I hope to reward myself with Italy’s famous gelato after each challenging stage.

As experienced athletes used to multi-day stage races, their names will also be ones to watch in the general classification for the women’s category, where tough competition is anticipated.

I saw that Celina Carpinteiro will be at the start; I’m very happy to see her again after we raced together in the past. I can’t wait to be there and meet everyone. I love sharing overnights, stories, and trails in a stage race,” says Ada Xinxó Morera.

Celina Carpinteiro, on the other hand, remains cautiously optimistic: “I like to be competitive and will do my best, but considering the competitors I already know, winning will be very difficult.

With the stage set for an exciting race through the picturesque Apennines, all eyes will be on Bologna on September 1st as these experienced Iberian riders join the international field for the start of what promises to be an unforgettable Appenninica MTB Stage Race experience.

Riders Bulletin n.5/2024

 

This is the fifth rider bulletin. These bulletins will provide useful information, news, and mandatory action reminders. Race time is in next week!

 

Let’s talk about navigation

You’ll navigate via our yellow and red arrows and sometimes yellow signage tape and also by using the GPX files of the stages uploaded to your GPS device. Get used to checking your GPS device regularly to confirm that you are on track. Read the race rules articles: Race marking and Navigation, Special Marking, Missing signs, and sabotage of racecourse arrows.

 

  • GPX files of the stages are available for download. Save them to your GPS including the routes that could be used in case of bad weather (BW in the file name). We’ll tell you more at the briefings. Please, make sure that they are uploaded and that your GPS device launches them correctly. 
  • Your friends and family can follow you thanks to SeTeTrack GPS tracking devices, (each of you will have one) and event page. The Appenninica live tracking will be posted on this link. Select the correct stage. 
  • At the following link, you’ll find the Google map of the entire racecourse: Click here.  You’ll see the start, finish, feed zones, and water points. 

 

Remember to subscribe to the Appenninica MTB Telegram channel for updates during the race, links to the stage results, and links to sharable content. Turn on the push notification function. 

 

Accreditation

Accreditations will take place in the splendid setting of Piazza Maggiore – historic center.

We will be at Salaborsa-Library (entrance right in front of the Neptune statue) and the Appenninica staff will be at the entrance to provide you with directions.

 

Accreditations – only – Sunday, September 1, between 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

 

Location:

Salaborsa (biblioteca).

 

How to Get There and Parking:

It is not possible to arrive by car. The nearest parking is Piazza VIII Agosto (maximum height 2.6 meters).

The parking lot at Via del Porto 5 is also suitable for campers and vans.

Both are a 10-minute walk from Salaborsa.

 

A larger free parking area for campers, suitable for those parking for the entire week, is the Certosa Parking (cemetery).

 

Camper areas can be found on the Bologna Welcome website: here.

 

We recommend coming to the accreditations by bike, and there will be a guarded parking area at the adjacent Palazzo D’Accursio specifically for Appenninica participants.

 

Meeting Point and Stage 1 Start

Stage 1 will start from the Giardini Bandiera de Coubertin (Arco del Meloncello). Meeting from 9:00 AM, start at 10:30 AM. Please read pages 1, 5, and 8 of the Rider Guide.

Check the Telegram channel for more information coming.

 

See you soon!

Appenninica MTB Stage Race: forging a winning alliance between sport and territory

A sporting event’s growth is measured not only by participation numbers or the technical level of the competition, but also by its companions along the way. This year, once again, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race will line up in Bologna for the start of the 2024 edition (September 2-7) with a strong team of partners. This includes a mix of premium national and international brands alongside local excellence from the Emilia-Romagna region, showcasing a grand alliance that certifies and rewards the work of ASD Happy Trail MTB, led by Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno.

The connection with the Emilia-Romagna Region remains crucial, as Appenninica MTB Stage Race offers an opportunity to promote the Apennines as a premier tourist destination for cycling, not only on the road but also for mountain biking. This project is also part of a broader plan to combat depopulation in these mountainous areas.

In the cycling sector, two long-standing partners stand out: 9th Wave Cycling, a Dutch company producing high-performance wheels, which has supported the project from the outset, and Barbieri PNK, a Bologna-based brand specialising in bike accessories and spare parts.

Prestigious international sponsors from the cycling world have also answered the call. Enervit, an Italian leader in sports nutrition and functional foods, will be the Sports Nutrition Partner of Appenninica. Additionally, the French brand Look, the official pedal of the event, and the bike lubricant manufacturer Squirt Cycling will also be key partners.

Appenninica MTB Stage Race also showcases Italian brands deeply rooted in the race’s territory, such as My Bike, a Meliconi group brand that applies the famous Italian company’s technology to create bike accessories and supports. The leader jerseys will be provided by Natali Sports Wear.

Among the main partners of Appenninica MTB Stage Race is Lavor, which will offer the Bike Wash service during the race. Lavor is part of the Comet Group and is a world leader in the production of cleaning and maintenance machinery.

Throughout the race week, Official Suppliers—excellent brands that will accompany the caravan—will play a vital role in making the experience even more unforgettable. The official hydration water will be provided by Gruppo Sem, one of Italy’s leading bottling operators, while Iren will ensure bikers can refill their water bottles. Thanks to Coop Alleanza 3.0, organic products from the Vivi Verde range will be available at refreshment points along the route and at the finish line.

In a region renowned worldwide for its food and wine excellence, cured meats and cheeses will be supplied by Grandi Salumifici Italiani, and the pasta from Delverde will be dressed with Rodolfi tomato sauce—two new and important partners, both from Emilia-Romagna. Cabrioni Biscotti, another partner from Emilia, is also joining the Appenninica MTB Stage Race starting this year.

As in recent years, mechanical assistance will be provided by the expertise and precision of Sport Bike Alicante, while Hibros will supply pre- and post-race muscle care products.

Radio Bruno, the Official Radio Partner, will be on hand throughout the week with the best summer hits, providing entertainment. Official Live Tracking will be managed by SeTe Track, providing an essential tool to follow the stage live and ensure the safety of the athletes, while Endu has handled the registration process, and Evodata will be responsible for timing and classifications.

The excitement continues with the return of the Appenninica Teen Camp project, which will immerse a group of young people and teenagers in the heart of the race operations. Decathlon will sponsor the project, providing tents, sleeping mats, and essential camping gear.

Bart Classens eyes the crown at Appenninica

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.

Riders Bulletin n.4/2024

This is the fourth rider bulletin. These bulletins will provide useful information, news, and mandatory action reminders. We are 14 days out.

 

Arriving and Parking

 

Transfer – Stage 6 location (pre-booked service)

The transfer from location stage 6 (Castelnovo) is planned for 13:45 on Sunday. Parking and pick-up are at parcheggio Piazzale Collodi.

This is the long-term parking for those parking in Castelnovo ne’ Monti for the week. The transfer to Bologna is about two hrs. 

Please have your bikes assembled – not in the bike bag – and be ready to board at the above time. 

 

Transfer – Airport (pre-booked service)

Transfer from Bologna Marconi Airport (BLQ) is planned for 13:15 and 15:30 on Sunday, September 1st.

If you have not sent your flight schedule with the flight number please write to info@appenninica-mtb.com. We must have this information (it is not enough that you have booked the transfer). 

The meeting point is at the arrival terminal (ground floor). Exit from the sliding doors and gather to your right. You’ll see a staff member with an Appenninica sign.  

If you arrive by train you can easily reach the hotel. 

 

Accommodation Pre-race

Our hotel in Bologna for the night of Sunday the 1st is sold out. Please find your own accommodation if you are still looking for a pre-race hotel. Also, we don’t provide transfers from hotels that are not Appenninica partners. 

 

Event Hotel in Bologna: The Social Hub

 

Basics and Updates:

  • On the website, you can find lots of information and we add more useful info periodically. The FAQ page is updated with the questions that we get asked the most.
  • The riders’ bulletins will be saved on the website so that you won’t have to dig them out of your inbox. Make sure you read them all.
  • What is included in your race entry is listed under What you get.  

In the next email you’ll get info about race registration and the GPS files.