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.
