Milton Ramos put his signature on Appenninica MTB Stage Race stage 4 thanks to a masterful downhill, beating Periklis, Fritzsch and Classens. Virginia Cancellieri won in the women’s category, bouncing back after stage 3 disappointment
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
Halflway through his second participation at Appenninica MTB Stage Race, Milton Ramos has finally broken the ice on Tuesday, September 15th 2021. The “Zorro of the desert” won the fourth stage with start and finish in Piazza Corsini in Fanano, 48 km and 2150 meters of elevation gain charted by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani. A fast and technical course that exalted Ramos’ skills, especially in the long downhill towards the city centre, with 15 single track sections.
On the climb up to the Croce Arcana Pass, four riders were in front: along with Milton Ramos, the general classification leaders Ilias Periklis, Felix Frtizsch, and Dutchman Bart Classens. On the downhill,l Ramos started his own personal show, leaving everyone behind and crossing the finish line after 2:51:57 with a 1:18 advantage on Periklis. A little further back, Felix Fritzsch completed the day’s podium with a gap of 1:24.
After last year’s participation, finished with the fourth place overall, Ramos took his first victory in the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna. “The stage was very hard, with tough climbs, but very fast in the second downhill part. I gave everything and took risks several times, but I wanted to win here at the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Finally, I did it“, Milton Ramos explained at the finish line
The situation in the general classification remains unchanged: Periklis has maintained his shallow advantage of 31 seconds over Fritzsch. Stable third in the general classification is Bart Classens, now with a delay of 19:07. “The stage was very good; I managed my energies with an eye on the GC. Tomorrow we’ll have a very long and difficult stage, with rain expected, so we’ll have to be focused and even more careful because the gap with Frtizsch is really small“, Periklis said at the finish line.
Furthermore, the winner of 2001 and 2003 Giro d’Italia, Gilberto Simoni has joined the Appenninica MTB Stage Race family in Fanano, as an out-of-competition special guest. The Italian climber immediately tested himself in the today’s stage, enjoying the track by Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, whom he met at the start. Simoni will also ride in stage 5 and 6 to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, facing the hardness of the Apennines routes.
Credits: Alyona Blagikh / The Outdoor Lab
CANCELLIERI’S VICTORY IGNITES THE BATTLE
The Women’s category keeps adding interest and uncertainty. Virginia Cancellieri returned to victory, immediately redeeming her underwhewlming performance in the third stage. The Orbea Factory Team rider was rolling from the start, and extended her lead kilometre after kilometre, finishing the race in 3:36:58.
The Italian’s performance reopened the overall standings, as current leader Naima Diesner paid 9:15 at the finish in Fanano and saw her overall gap shrinking to 16:47 with the “Queen Stage” still to come. The German was held up by a technical problem, while Austrian Evelyn Sulzer lost contact with the overall lead and gave up 22:37 at the finish line; at 39:19 in the GC, her overall chances are probably over.
“Today was a really nice stage, I saw that it suited my characteristics: long but rolling, and with technical descents. My legs were going well, and my goal was to reach the top in front and then gain advantage on the downhill. Tomorrow there is a really long stage and I think that there the real difference for the GC can be done “, explained Virginia Cancellieri at the finish line.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
THE QUEEN STAGE TO SHAKE UP THE OVERALL STANDINGS
With a balanced situation in the general classification, both among men and women, the “High Mountain Queen Stage” scheduled on Thursday, September 16th, could be decisive. The 98 km and 3750 meters of elevation gain that will take the riders from Fanano to Cerreto Laghi could be the watershed between the final glory for the win or for a good placement, for those who are still in the game in the general classification. The risk of rain could make the route even more difficult and tricky.
Immediately after the start, the athletes will tackle a 17km climb to Monte Cimone, where they will enjoy the thrilling view of Pian Cavallaro. A 10km dive to Pievepelago will precede the climb to Sant’Anna Pelago, and then a long up and down in the high-altitude area of Monte Cusna. A long but very smooth and spectacular stage: possibly, the decisive one for the final outcome of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021.
The DMT Racing Team biker won the third stage in Fanano, taking Appenninica’s overall standings lead by just 26 seconds over Felix Fritzsch. Third different winner among women: in Fanano it was Evelyn Sulzer’s time
Credits: Michael Chiaretta / The Outdoor Lab
That’s an edition of duels at Appenninica MTB Stage Race. On Tuesday, September 14th, 2021, Ilias Periklis won the third stage (from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fanano) in 3:03:29, riding for 57 km and 2350 m of elevation gain. Thanks to his success, the DMT Racing Team Greek took over the leadership in the overall classification, moving in first position with and advantage of 26 seconds on German Felix Fritzsch.
In the first part of the route, the race was led by a trio with Periklis, Fritzsch and Dutchman Juul Van Loon. After the second feed zone at kilometre 35, the Greek rider took the initiative, increasing the pace and leaving the company of the two opponents. Behind, other Dutchman Bart Classens and Italian Elia Taverna reduced the gap with the chaser. At the finish line in Piazza Corsini, Ilias Periklis was 2:12 ahead of Classens, while Fritzsch was third with a gap of 2:40.
The third stage of the 2021 edition of Appenninica confirmed the early days’ sensations, with Periklis apparently having something extra compared to his rivals, but Felix Frtizsch is close and ready to challenge him in the next days. The short 26″ gap pictures a race open to the last pedal stroke, with Dutch Bart Classens solid in his third position, yet 17:40 behind the overall leader.
“It was another good day for me. I liked the route with many technical sections, but I rode safely, avoiding risks. After the second feed zone, I increased the pace aiming at conquering the leader’s jersey and I took it. I think that the battle between me and Fritzsch for the final victory will continue in the next stages, let’s take it day by day”, analysed Ilias Periklis after the finish in Fanano.
In the women’s category, the Lizzano to Fanano stage produced the third different winner out of three stages. Today’s best time was by Austrian Evelyn Sulzer, who finished in 3:57:27 ahead of Naima Diesner by 5:07 minutes. Virginia Cancellieri (Orbea Factoring Team) had a tough day, crossing the finish line with a gap of 22:13, suffering the fatigue of the first two racing days and a busy season. The Italian kept her second position in the standings with just a two-second margin on the stage winner, but the gap to leader Naima Diesner is now extended to 25:56.
It was a positive day for the German, who despite her runner-up spot in the stage consolidated her leadership. “Evelyn (Sulzer) overtook me on the first climb but knowing that the race is still long I didn’t want to force and opted to continue at my own pace. I also got a flat tyre in the next few kilometres, but that can happen. I’m happy with my performance, but for the final victory I think that Sulzer is doing well and can still be dangerous“, explained Diesner at the finish line.
A bit surprised but excited, Evelyn Sulzer still holds chances for a comeback on the top positions in the ranking. “I really didn’t expect to win because there are two riders who are much stronger than me on the downhill. We still have a lot of kilometres to go with a lot of difficulties, anything can happen, let’s see what will be going on in the general classification. The landscapes are fantastic, and the route is wonderful, I’m really happy to be here at Appenninica“, said the Austrian bikers.
Credits: Alyona Blagikh / The Outdoor Lab
NEED FOR SPEED: THE “PIPPO YEAH” SHOW
It’s time for speed and adrenaline at Appenninica, with the fourth stage scheduled on Wednesday, September 15th, 2021. The 48 km and 2150 m of elevation gain that await the athletes have been charted by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, who also designed the famous Black Snake in Val di Sole, where twenty days ago the Downhill World Championships titles were awarded.
Starting and finishing in Piazza Corsini in Fanano, the route has two climbs: the first one is the 14 km ascent to the Colombino Pass, followed by the second one to the Croce Arcana Pass. The decisive moment will probably be the long descent (18 km) with 15 single track sections, where the most capable downhill specialists will find perfect ground to showcase their qualities.
The Greek rider of DMT Racing Team won the second stage of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021 with a decisive attack in the descent towards Lizzano in Belvedere. German Felix Fritzsch remained atop the GC, closing 43″ behind today’s winner. Naima Diesner won the stage and took over the jersey among women
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
On the slopes of Corno alle Scale, Emilia-native former skier Alberto Tomba laid the foundations of his amazing career. On the descent towards Lizzano in Belvedere, Greek Ilias Periklis used his skills to launch the decisive attack to win the second stage of the 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race on Monday, September 13th. The DMT Racing Team rider completed the 55km and 2540m elevation gain stage in 3:17:36, 43 seconds ahead of stage one winner Felix Fritzsch (RSG 52 Stolberg). After surprising everyone in the opening stage, the German confirmed his good form and kept the leader’s jersey in the general classification.
As expected, it was the long 33km climb on the way to Corno alle Scale that made the difference, with Periklis setting the pace and putting his rivals on the back foot. On the second ascent to Monte Cupolino, overall leader Felix Fritzsch was able to get back to him, but on the downhill the Greek, 2012 Marathon World Champion, sprinted hard to gain the 43 seconds needed to win the second stage. On the third step of today’s podium, with a 11:09 minutes delay from the winner, was Italian Elia Taverna (Asd Bike and Fund Team).
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
“It was a long stage, harder than yesterday’s, and around the halfway of the race I started to raise the pace to make a selection,” said Ilias Periklis at the finish line. “On the last climb I lost time and Fritzsch came back, so I had to work even harder to shake him off and win this stage. There are five more difficult days ahead and the terrain is very technical with several fun singletrack sections, so we’ll see what the Apennines have in store for us tomorrow”.
The challenge between Periklis and Fritzsch promises to be a fierce one over the next few days as the Greek is only 2:23 minutes behind in the overall standings and there are plenty of kilometres and difficulties to change that. Finishing the Lizzano stage more than 14 minutes behind the race leader, Dutchman Bart Classens lost further ground, but still remains third in the general classification with a delay slightly under 20 minutes. “I was close to Periklis on the final climb, but I couldn’t keep up with him on the descent” Fritzsch analysed, “anyway I’m still happy to be leading the general classification“.
The women’s race was a revolution, as Virginia Cancellieri (Orbea Factoring Team) had to give up the leader’s jersey to German Naima Diesner. The Tuspo Weemde team rider completed the second stage in 4:13:48, beating the Italian by 9:57 minutes. After having narrowly lost out to Cancellieri in the opening time trial, the German jumped to the top of the standings with an advantage of 8:51minutes thanks to her performance in “Il Corno” stage, which leaves the situation still open for the next stages. Further behind was Evelyn Sulzer, who paid 19:37 to the winner at the finish in Lizzano (third position) and has a gap of more than half an hour in the general classification.
“Today was a really tough stage with a hard climb and a very technical descent, that I really enjoyed – commented Naima Diesner after the finish -. Virginia (Cancellieri) rides really well and she’s very strong, so I think there’s all the ingredients for a tough challenge between us. I’m very happy to wear the leader’s jersey today“.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
FROM LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE TO FANANO: THE ECSTASY OF GOLD
The Appenninica MTB Stage Race family will get back in action tomorrow Tuesday, September 14th: from Lizzano in Belvedere, the athletes will face a tricky stage of 50 km and 2300 meters of total elevation gain to Fanano, with the efforts starting to pile up after three tough days on saddle.
The heart of the third stage is the ascent to Monte Cimone, with 15km of long regular ascent. From the summit, there will be several ups and downs inside the Cimone Bike Park, that could be challenging and make a selection. Before the finish line in Fanano, the race will also pass through the village of Trignano, from where the brave Felice Pedroni left seeking gold in Alaska and to whom the stage called “Gold Rush” is dedicated.
German Felix Fritzsch won the opening of Appeninica MTB Stage Race, ahead of big names such as Ilias Periklis and Bart Classens. Virginia Cancellieri was the first Italian to win an Appenninica stage in the “solo” category
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021 delivered a surprising opening on Sunday, September 12th, in the individual time trial in Porretta Terme (40 km and 1600 metres of elevation gain). The best time was set by German Felix Fritzsch, the only athlete to beat the 2-hour limit with a 1:58:59 time. The rider of the RSG 52 Stolberg team surprised all the most valued opponents, confirming a special feeling with the Emilia-Romagna Apennines after the victory at the Rally di Romagna in 2018, and having finished last May’s edition in fourth place.
Two riders among the favourites, Ilias Periklis (DMT Racing Team) and Bart Classens (MTB Club Licht Verzet), completed the podium with 3:05 and 3:59 delays. respectively. After last year’s crash in the second stage, which ended his experience at Appenninica, Fritzsch came back aiming at finishing the race. Fate gave him an immediate thrill: he’s the first leader of the 2021 edition.
“I’m definitely surprised, I didn’t realise I went this fast but I’m excited for the win – admitted the German rider at the finish line -. I hope I can defend the lead, but I’ll be thinking day by day. Today’s course was very demanding, with a tough climb and several singletrack sections on the descent. Definitely a good start, let’s see what happens in the next days“.
In the women’s category, the first day marked a first time. In fact, Virginia Cancellieri became the first Italian woman ever to win a stage at Appenninica MTB in the solo formula. The Orbea Factory Team rider came to the Apennine to enjoy the race and have fun in the wonderful landscapes of the area, but she started strong and she’s going play her cards until the end.
Cancellieri covered the 40-km distance of the TT opening stage in 2:31:08, with a 1:05 advantage over German Naima Diesner (Tuspo Weemde) and 12:33 over Austrian Evelyn Sulzer. This trio likely includes the final winner, also given the last-minute forfait of ultracyclist Elena Novikova, due to physical issues.
“I really liked the course, it reminded me of my home paths in Liguria – commented the Italian after the finish line – I came here to have fun after a very busy month, to set my mind off and to just enjoy the race. I will keep riding this way even aftwer today’s success, but I can’t hide I’m very proud of the result and of being able to wear the leader jersey tomorrow”.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
FROM PORRETTA TO LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE: THE RACE SPICES UP
After the “Porretta Soul” starter, Appenninica MTB Stage Race is getting to its main courses. Starting from tomorrow Monday, September 13th, the altitude will be increasing, taking the race to wonderful landscapes on the Apennines’ crests. Main feature of the second stage, starting from 9.00 am CET from Porretta and running for 55 km (2540 m elevation gain) up to Lizzano in Belvedere – birthplace of famous journalist and writer Enzo Biagi -, is the Corno alle Scale mountain, after which the stage is named (Il Corno).
The peak of 1830 m a.s.l. will be reached after an endless 33 km climb, the longest of this 2021 edition. From the breath-taking panorama of the Crinale Massimo, the riders will get to Lago Scaffaiolo and then quickly descend to the finish line in Lizzano. After this stage it will be possible to have a better picture of the favorites in the race: the time to hide is already over.
From September 12th to 18th, Appenninica MTB Stage Race will take the best of MTB world to the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. Porretta Terme will host the great start, finale on the Bismantova Rock
Everything is set for the start of the third edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Tomorrow, Sunday, September 12th, 2021, the MTB stage race on the paths of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will take off from Porretta Terme. A route of 420 km and 16,000 metresof total elevation gain until the finale of Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Saturday, September 18th, when the Bismantova Rock will be judging the best bikers in the world. In between, there will be seven very demanding and technical fractions that will touch five stage locations (together with the one mentioned before, there will be Lizzano in Belvedere, Fanano and Cerreto Laghi).
The Organising Committee led by Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi is aiming once again at a formula that combines a high competitive level with the adventurous spirit of a unique experience. Thanks also to the partnership with the Emilia-Romagna Region, Appenninica intends to become more and more a promotional event for the territory and tourism in the Apennines, communicating through sport the beauties of an area that is still little known.
The participants are of the highest level, with the athletes of the DMT Racing Team among the main favourites after last year’s double win. The Greek Ilias Periklis, 2012 Marathon World Champion will try to repeat what Hans Becking and Tiago Ferreira did in 2020. Among the 106 contestants, Milton Ramos is another man to watch out for, thanks to his knowledge of the race and the fact that he finished just outside the podium last year. The outsiders include American Gordon Wadsworth and Dutchman Bart Classens, who leads an “orange” patrol of 22 athletes.
In the women’s category, the 1993 born Evelyn Sulzer is favoured by the odds and will try to repeat the exploits of Esther Süss, who dominated in 2020. Among those who could challenge her, are Wadsworth’s American teammate Emily Hairfield and German Naima Diesner. On behalf of Italy, Virginia Cancellieri will try to reach the podium.
THE ROUTE
On Sunday, September 12th, 2021, Porretta Terme will host the Appenninica MTB Stage Race start with the “Porretta Soul” stage, a 45 km individual time trial (1,645 mt of elevation gain) dedicated to the Porretta Soul Festival. A symbol of Porretta Terme area, the Monte Cavallo climb will be immediately tackled by the riders while the stage will continue through the thick surrounding woodlands, enjoying high altitude views of the mountains and Reno valley.
The first real taste of Apennine ridge will be scheduled on Monday, September 13th with stage 2, 57 km and 2,340m of elevation gain from Porretta Terme to Lizzano in Belvedere. Named the “Corno”, the second stage’s protagonist is the Corno alle Scale mountain, with its wide and emotional views.
On Tuesday, September 14th, the Appenninica 2021 riders will move from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fanano with a very technical stage of 57km and 2,500m of elevation gain. The track goes continuously up and down through different terrains, with versatility required to be ready for any situation.
Designed by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, the spectacular “Pippo Yeah” stage will return on Wednesday, September 15th. With a route of 50 km and 2,300m of elevation gain, one of the most appreciated stages of the 2020 edition will again show the beautiful landscapes around Fanano, entertaining the riders on the breathtaking single tack downhill to the town center.
From Fanano to Cerreto Laghi, the “High Mountain Queen Stage” scheduled on Thursday, September 16th, will be the real test bench for those who aspire to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race overall. The athletes will face 95km and 3,600m of elevation gain on a track wholly charted at high altitude, smooth and incredibly scenic.
After the great effort, on Friday, September 17th, the “Park&Roll” will move to Castelnovo ne’ Monti through a less challenging stage, 65km and 1,600m of elevation gain. After the first uphill part, the riders will go downhill through the trails of Cervarezza Bike Park from Lake Calamone, enjoying the Bismantova Rock view from afar.
On Saturday, September 18th, the epilogue is the “Purgatory” stage, dedicated to Dante Alighieri on the 700th anniversary of his death. The name of the stage says everything: to reach the “Paradise”, finishing (or even winning) the Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021, the riders have to tame the Bismantova Rock, riding in the shadow of the mountain that inspired Dante’s Purgatory before tasting the glory at Castelnovo ne’ Monti.
After the fourth place from last year, the Honduran rider returns to Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 12-18). “A huge challenge immersed in a wonderful setting”
Last season, Milton Ramos had won the sympathy of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race family and fans thanks to his attitude and enthusiasm. This year, the Honduran rider had circled the Italian MTB Race on the Emilia-Romagna Apennines from September 12 to 18 as a can’t-miss fixture of his season.
The 42-year-old Honduran, based in Spain, is ready to face the steep challenge of Appenninica, after the beautiful experience of the last edition. “Appenninica is a great sports event, immersed in wonderful landscapes: a perfect stage race for MTB lovers”, said Milton Ramos. – “Last year, I took part in the Appenninica for the first time in my career, and I also had the opportunity to visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello on the occasion. I was surprised by the unspoiled nature, that gave me an incredible feeling”.
Other than the landscapes and the local cuisine, there were more things standing out to the eyes of the ‘Zorro of the Desert’, like the technical level of the racecourses. “I think Appenninica could more again in the coming years, rising among the most important MTB stage races in the world”, commented Milton Ramos.
After discovering the demanding courses of Appenninica 2020, Ramos had the opportunity to see the routes of the 2021 edition thanks to Appenninica Preview, the adventurous recce ride organized by the content creators’ crew of The Outdoor Lab, joined by friends and guests from the MTB world. Ramos tested the first stages of the 420-Km course, characterized by 16.000 mt of elevation gain. “I saw a new section which I think is very attractive, in addition to the trails characterizing last year’s route”.
After grazing the podium in 2020, Milton Ramos promises to battle for more in 2021. Waiting for the Apennines verdict, one thing is certain for the Honduran biker: “Appenninica 2021 will be an amazing experience”.
The town in the Province of Reggio Emilia, renowned for the Pietra di Bismantova (Bismantova Rock), will host the grand finale of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, with the finish of the two decisive last stages
An epic race deserves a Dantesque finale. It will be Castelnovo ne’ Monti, famous for the Pietra di Bismantova (Bismantova Rock), which is told to have inspired Dante’s Purgatory, to host the last two stages of Appenninica MTB Stage Race (12-18 September 2021). For the town in the Province of Reggio Emilia, this is the third participation in three editions of Appenninica, which by now feels at home on the hard trails of the Reggio Emilia Apennines.
After the hard work of the previous five days, the athletes will reach Castelnovo ne’ Monti on Friday September 17th, during the “Park & Roll” stage, run entirely within the Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Tosco-Emiliano. 65 km and 2050 meters of elevation gain with a last stretch inside the Cervarezza Bike Park with a view on the Pietra di Bismantova.
The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, September 18th, 2021, with the “Purgatory” stage: of 50 km and 1600 meters of elevation gain. Leaving the town, the route climbs up to Monte Fosola and then continues along the ridge to the Matildic Castle of Carpineti. To celebrate the 700th anniversary of Dante’s death, the stage will also tackle the climb towards the Pietra di Bismantova in the final part of the race and then experience some spectacular and unprecedented final kilometres through the narrow streets and stairways of Castelnovo’s historic centre, before the finish line in Piazza Peretti, decreeing the winners of Appenninica 2021.
“We are really pleased to host a stage of Appenninica MTB Stage Race again – said the Mayor of Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Enrico Bini -. This year’s presence is particularly significant because the last stage passes in the shadow of the Bismantova Rock, a few days after the 700th anniversary of Dante’s passing on September 14th, 1421. Appenninica is part of the activities of our project, Castelnovo ne’ Monti “a town for sports”. Mountain biking is a growing trend in our area, with many hotels now equipped to suit the needs of many riders coming to seize the opportunities of the Apennine ridge.”
CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI, BETWEEN HISTORY AND DANTE
The symbol of Castelnovo ne’ Monti is the Pietra di Bismantova (Bismantova Rock) which, according to tradition, inspired Dante’s Purgatory during a visit by the poet in 1306, as also reported in a passage from Canto IV of the Purgatory of the Divine Comedy.
The town has medieval origins, which can still be found today in the archaeological remains of structures from that time. These include the Felina Castle, which in 870 became the property of a close relative of Emperor Ludovico II. Today, only the tower known as “Il salame” (the salami) remains. Here, in 1409, Michele Attendolo Sforza put the head of his Parma enemy Ottobono Terzi on a pike.
The mountain bike stage race scheduled from September 8th to 12th is an opportunity to taste the best cooking products of Emilia-Romagna Apennines.
The bond between Appenninica MTB Stage Race and its territory is not only in the wonderful landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines but can also be enjoyed when you sit down for dinner, after the efforts of a stage. The cuisine and gastronomic excellence represent an added value for the mountain bike stage race, thanks to the many PDO and PGI products of one of the most prosperous areas in Italy.
The products of the great Emilia-Romagna cuisine will also be at Appenninica, thanks to the prestigious partnerships reached by the organising committee in collaboration with Emanuela Zannoni. One of the most important new entries of this edition is Barilla, which will supply the Appenninica family with its best products for the pasta parties at the end of the stages. The excellence and the quality of Made in Italy is exported by Barilla all over the worldwide, thanks to its unique heritage.
As usual, the opening of the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wheel will be a ritual moment at Appenninica. The Latteria Sociale Carnarola, Caseificio del Parco, Casteificio Sociale Fior di Latte and Caseificio Sociale La Querciola will supply the mountain variety of the world-famouse cheese from the Apennines, whose production area extends along the entire race route, with high mountain pastures and a processing method synonymous with quality and authenticity.
Sportspeople know how rehydration is after hours of sporting activity, which is why the Sem Group, one of the leading operators in Italy in the bottling of water and soft drinks will be alongside Appenninica. Sem produces and distributes Monte Cimone natural mineral water, oligomineral water with a low mineral component. In the stages of Fanano, Cerreto Laghi and Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the athletes will quench their thirst with water flowing inside the Parco Naturale dell’Alto Appennino Modenese at over 935 metres above sea level. The Monte Cimone water is bottled with an eco-sustainable process to reduce the impact of plastic containers on the environment as much as possible.
Coop Alleanza 3.0 will supply with its Vivi Verde range those who prefer organic and natural products. The Medici Ermete winery will award the category winners with a mangum of Concerto-Lambrusco Reggiano DOC organic wine. It will be possible to taste both dry Assolo-Reggiano DOC and dry Quercioli Reggiano-Lambrusco DOC during the dinners, among the best wine products of the Apennine territory.
The traditional balsamic vinegar of Reggio Emilia PDO of the G&G Acetaia is another prized product of the area to taste in the final dinner, at the end of the last stage in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. GSI Casa Modena Salumi is also a partner to Appenninica, offering participants the unique flavours of its products, and the production experience handed down from generation to generation, combining tradition and innovation.
“Healthy and safe food is synonymous with quality. Supporting events like Appenninica it’s important, because they combine sports activity and the promotion of health and healthy food in Emilia-Romagna, a land rich with great products with the PDO and PGI marks. Promoting the territory means not only enhancing the beauty of the landscape and the opportunities it offers, but also the quality of its cuisine”, explained the Italian MP Antonella Incerti, member of the Italian Parliament’s Agriculture Commission and representative of the Emilia-Romagna Region.
The famous ski resort in the municipality of Ventasso will host Appenninica MTB Stage Race for the first time, with the finish of the most challenging test, the High Mountain Queen Stage, and the start on the following day
Located in the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park, the famous ski resort of Cerreto Laghi is ready to make its debut at Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The hamlet of Ventasso, in the province of Reggio Emilia, is one of the five stage venues of the 2021 edition, to be held from September 12th to 18th. With its excellent facilities both for winter sports and to enjoy nature and outdoor activities such as trekking and mountain biking, the territory of Cerreto Laghi is rich in glacial lakes, as suggested by its toponymy, offering breath-taking views and water sheets to experience moments of peace and relaxation.
For its debut in the mountain bike stage race, Cerreto Laghi is ready to host, on Thursday 16 September, the finish of the most awaited effort: the High Mountain Queen Stage. After the start in Fanano, the athletes will face 95 km and 3,600 metres of elevation gain, touching the two highest peaks of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, Mount Cimone (2,165 m) and Mount Cusna (2,121 m), while enjoying the scenery of a wild territory. Approaching Cerreto Laghi, there will also be room for several fun stretches of single track, which is ideal after so many kilometres.
On Friday, September 17th, the caravan of Appenninica MTB Stage Race will start again from Cerreto Laghi to face the “Park & Roll“, fully located in the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park, fraction up to Castelnovo ne’ Monti: 65 Km and 1900 meters of elevation gain, with a challenging early section around Monte Cavalbianco.
“As the Municipality of Ventasso, we are very pleased of having Cerreto Laghi in the Appenninica MTB route, as our territory sees tourism as a crucial asset“, explained the Mayor of Ventasso, Antonio Manari. “Cerreto Laghi is well known and established for winter tourism, but I think it is essential to invest in another type of outdoor tourism such as mountain biking, which is rapidly growing in our territory. This important opportunity will help us to strengthen our destination, which we would like to qualify more and more as an ideal location for cycling lovers.”
BETWEEN WATER SOURCES AND MUSHROOMS COMPETITIONS
Immersing oneself in nature and landscapes is a must during a stay in Cerreto Laghi, enjoying enchanting places such as the Sorgenti del Secchia, a large basin of glacial water. There are about ten water areas in the surroundings, all easily walkable through hiking trails such as the Valle del Riarbero, where the water erosion has created an enchanting landscape.
Every year, Cerreto Laghi hosts the World Mushroom Championship, an event dedicated to the typical product that grows abundantly in the woods of these territories. The contest, whose 9th edition will take place in 2021, is a mushroom picking competition organised by the Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park.
Winner last year with Hans Becking, Andrea Marconi’s team will be at the start of the 2021 edition (September 12th-18th, 2021) with 2012 UCI MTB Marathon World Champion Ilias Periklis and German Vinzent Dorn
If winning is hard, repeating is even harder. Andrea Marconi’s DMT Racing Team is ready to defend the title won last year by Hans Becking on the trails of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. From September 12th to 18th, 2021, the Italian team will take part in the 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race, with a duo formed by experienced Greek Ilias Periklis and 24-year-old German Vinzent Dorn.
“By just checking the route, it’s hard to claim our ambitions. Appenninica will offer a great chance to test ourselves on challenging routes and prepare for the UCI MTB Marathon World Championships on Elba Island, taking place a few weeks later on October 2nd, 2021. Being at Appenninica is also a way to support a growing and ambitious event, and we are pleased of the opportunity to join an all-Italian MTB stage race”, explained Andrea Marconi.
After the positive experience of last year, when DMT Racing took the first and second overall spots with Hans Becking and the 2016 UCI MTB Marathon World Champion, Tiago Ferreira, Andrea Marconi made a call ahead of the 2021 edition: “Appenninica is a growing event that showcases semi-unknown gems and locations to the whole World. I would like all Italian teams to take part in this kind of events, as this would be a boost for the Italian MTB movement as a whole.”
On September 12th, 2021, at the start of Porretta Terme, the DMT Racing Team title defense will be started by Ilias Periklis, 2012 UCI MTB Marathon World Champion in Ornanas (France), and German Vinzent Dorn, a duo that combines experience and willingness to emerge. “Periklis is an established and successful rider, who has the experience and knows how to handle himself over the course. Dorn is a young rider with a great desire to show himself and achieve important goals”, explained Marconi.
The 420 km and 16,000 metres of elevation gain will test Marconi’s team ambitions for an encore: for sure, the Emilia-Romagna Apennine is an uncompromising judge.
The performance beer created for sportspeople by Simone Bertin is sponsor of Appenninica’s 2021 edition: a balanced product that restores energy without glycaemic spikes
Is there any better than a cold beer after an Appenninica stage? For the 2021 edition (September 12th– 18th, 2021), the Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s organising committee will delight its riders with a special and balanced product, developed specifically for them by La Orange.
DeQou Action Beer is the first handcrafted performance beer with an alcohol content of only 3,5% vol., rich in magnesium and potassium with a double ratio of maltodextrin. This beer releases energy without causing a glycaemic spike, thanks to an innovative production brewing method based on university research and development.
“Thanks to its wealth in elements, beer has been used for thousands of years to integrate and replenish minerals and energy in a pleasant way. DeQou Action Beer is the first performance beer specifically developed and brewed in Italy to combine taste, emotion and nutrition. The low alcohol combined with the high maltodextrin level makes it the perfect beer for recovery after a long sports session. We are sure that even the tireless participants of Appenninica will enjoy a sip of energy and “beerness” at the end of their efforts”, said Simone Bertin, CEO of La Orange.
DeQou Action Beer will be present at every stage of Appenninica with a special can, customized for the mountain bike stage race. La Orange returns to Appenninica’s family after having been a sponsor in the first edition.
The sportive town in the Province of Modena renews its bound with Appenninica MTB Stage races, hosting two starts and two finishes of the upcoming 2021 edition
The special relationship between Fanano and Appenninica MTB Stage Race continues for the 2021 edition (September 12th-18th, 2021), when the town in the province of Modena will host three stages of the mountain bike stage race. Fanano is a small mountain municipality at the foot of Monte Cimone, located in the Alto Appennino Modenese Natural Park. Orange flag of the Italian Touring Club since 2001 for its environment, this municipality is renewed as hometown of the Italian gold miner Felice Pedroni, who made his fortune in the United States at the beginning of the last century during the gold rush.
Appenninica MTB Stage Race will reach Fanano on Tuesday, September 14th, 2021, at the end of stage 3, “Gold Rush”, with 57 km and 2500 metres of elevation gain, starting from Lizzano in Belvedere. Before the arrival, the bikers will face the ascent of Monte Cimone, passing through the village of Trignano, birthplace of Felice Pedroni. This stage is characterized by exhausting ups and downs where athletes will have to be ready to face any scenario.
The following day, Wednesday, September 15th, 2021, the “Pippo Yeah!” stage returns to Appenninica after last year’s success. Entirely charted by famous trail builder Pippo Marani, the stage of 50 km and 2300 metres of elevation gain is byword of pure fun with two ascents towards the Passo Colombino and Passo Croce Arcana, although the 15 km of downhill on a single track will be decisive.
Fanano will say goodbye to Appenninica on Thursday, September 16th, 2021, hosting the start of the “High Mountain Queen Stage”, 95 km and 3600 metres of elevation gain with finish in Cerreto Laghi. The athletes will immediately face the challenging ascent towards the summit of Monte Cimone (17 km of climb for an elevation gain of over 1000 metres).
“We believed in the Appenninica project from the start because it is a worldwide platform for us to promote our territory. Here in Fanano we have about 300 km of trails of different difficulties that we keep clean with effort and dedication, but thanks to Appenninica, we can give a touristic boost to this offer and commitment. This is the moment of the Apennines, an ideal area to enjoy nature and breathe fresh air”, explained the Mayor of Fanano, Stefano Muzzarelli.
FANANO, BETWEEN SPORTS AND GOLD RUSH
Fanano is a small mountain municipality with a strong sport tradition, related to the winter ski resort of Monte Cimone, where it is possible to practice downhill skiing, ski mountaineering, as well as figure skating and hockey thanks to the presence of an ice rink. In summer, the network of trails is ideal for trekking, mountain biking and outdoor sports.
The beating heart of the town is Piazza Corsini, where the three most important access roads converge. In the village of Trignano, it’s also possible to visit the native home of Felice Pedroni, Fanano’s most illustrious citizen, who founded the town of Fairbanks, in Alaska, after discovering the largest gold deposit in the region.
