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.

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.