The Italian MTB stage race unveils the course of its seven stages for the 2021 edition (12-18 September). Great expectations for the new “High Mountain Queen Stage,” with 95km and 3,600 meters of elevation gain.
With less than six months to go, the countdown is on for the third edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, and the organizing team is in full activity. From September 12th to 18th, 2021, the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will be the location for an epic challenge between the world’s best long-distance riders.
As in the past, the organizers have charted a challenging course for the 2021 edition, enhancing the Apennine ridge’s beauty and the unspoiled nature of Alta Via dei Parchi, the feather in the cap for the tourist promotion of the Emilia-Romagna Region. The extreme challenge will take place over seven stages with almost 16,000 meters of elevation gain and a total distance of over 420 kilometers through five-stage venues. For the 2021 edition, new stage towns Lizzano in Belvedere (Bologna) and Cerreto Laghi (Reggio Emilia) have joined the confirmed Porretta Terme (Bologna), Fanano (Modena) and Castelnovo ne’ Monti (Reggio Emilia).
As in the first two editions, the 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race route will alternate long and demanding stages with fast, technical and fun courses. A perfect mix to ensure entertainment, keeping the high technical level of the race.
SEVEN STAGES AND THE GRAND FINALE ON THE BISMANTOVA ROCK
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 50km 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 1,900m 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.
As in 2020, the organizing committee chose to allow only individual participation, without the pairs format. Riders can register at Appenninica MTB Stage Race in the “Regular Registration” phase until June 30th, 2021. A three-installment payment plan is also available for the 2021 edition. For further information: https://www.appenninica-mtb.com/en/register.
With Appenninica’s trails riding through regional and national parks, to avoid the course’s overcrowding and provide the best possible experience, the organizers opted to set a maximum number of 150 registered athletes.
THE COURSE
Stage 1 – Porretta Soul – 45 km and 1,645m elevation gain
Sunday, September 12th: Porretta Terme – Porretta Terme
Stage 2 – Il Corno – 57 km and 2,340 mt elevation gain
Monday, September 13th: Porretta Terme – Lizzano in Belvedere
Stage 3 – Gold Rush – 50 km and 2,500 mt elevation gain
Tuesday, September 14th: Lizzano in Belvedere – Fanano
Stage 4 – Pippo Yeah – 50 km and 2,300 mt elevation gain
Wednesday, September 15th: Fanano – Fanano
Stage 5 – High Mountain Queen – 95 km and 3,600 mt elevation gain
Thursday, September 16th: Fanano – Cerreto Laghi
Stage 6 – Park & Roll – 65 km and 1,900 mt elevation gain
Friday, September 17th: Cerreto Laghi – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
Stage 7 – The Purgatory – 50 km and 1,400 mt elevation gain
Saturday, September 18th: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
Monte Cimone will be crossed by the fourth stage of the 2021 Giro d’Italia, covering a section of the 2021 Appenninica course that will be proposed also in 2021.
Old loves are never forgotten. The early-days Appenninica MTB Stage Race fans will remember when the MTB stage race made its debut in 2019 on the slope of the San Luca climb in Bologna, where the opening time trial of the Giro d’Italia had taken place just a couple of months earlier. From the beginning, a bond was there between Appenninica and Giro, and now we are about to see a new episode of that.
Fanano and the surrounding Apennine area will shine in 2021 Giro d’Italia stage 4, 186 kilometres from Piacenza to Sestola. On May 11th, 2021, the great names of road cycling will face the Ca’ dei Frati climb reaching the Colle Passerino before the finish in Sestola: a well-known route to the Appenninica riders, after riding it downhill during the “Pippo Yeah” stage in 2020, a course that will be proposed again in the 2021 edition, on September 15th. After the San Luca climb in Bologna in 2019, Appenninica and Giro d’Italia will cross their roads again, this time to show the Apennines’ beauties.
The Giro will shine a light on the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines and their courses network, both on the road and the over 300 km of off-road trails, promoting bike and outdoor tourism in these areas. The Appenninica MTB Stage Race OC has the same goal, as highlighted by the territorial partnership recently signed with the Emilia-Romagna Region.
The relationship between Appenninica and the Giro d’Italia is also enhanced by the more and more frequent connection between MTB and road cycling, with an increasing number of riders performing at the highest level in both disciplines. Mathieu Van der Poel might be one of the most outstanding examples, but two of the best riders expected at the Giro also started their careers offroad before establishing as legitimate road cycling stars: 2019 Tour de France winner Egan Bernal and the multiple World Champion Peter Sagan. Furthermore, someone has tagged Appenninica as the “Giro d’Italia on MTB” due to its nature as a stage race. An overwhelming comparison, but certainly an inspiring one for the young Apennine event, which celebrates only its third edition in 2021.
Either in May or September, top cycling will be waiting for you on the Emilia-Romagna Apennines: why not taking advantage of this opportunity?
After all the 55 available numbers in the first phase of registration were claimed, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race team looks forward to the next months with further confidence: sold-out is the goal!
The Early Bird phase to sign up for the 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race – scheduled from September 12th to 18th – ended in January. All the 55 bibs available in such phase were claimed, further encouraging the organizers for the coming months, with the ambition of achieving the sold-out. We are not yet free of the Covid emergency, but the appeal of Appenninica is stronger.
The newly registered riders joined those who had confirmed their slot after taking part in the 2020 edition, and those who had to give up on last year’s race due to COVID-related reasons: the Appenninica peloton already trespassed the 50% threshold of the closed number of 150 athletes.
Along with the peaking figures, the Early Bird phase for the third edition already brought the race to new Countries, showing Appenninica’s attitude to become a global showcase for outdoor in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, as in the strategy shared with the Emilia-Romagna region. The race will see athletes from Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Venezuela, as well as more established MTB Countries such as UK, Belgium and the Netherlands, the latter currently leading the Nations’ ranking. Spaniards are also destined to be represented in forces. In September on the Appenninica routes, we will get to know better Jersey, a small Island on the English Channel with a huge cycling passion, that will be represented by a significant group of riders.
From February 1st to June 30th, the “regular registration” phase is open for 1.290 €, followed by a “late registration” period at 1.490 € until the maximum number of 150 participants has been reached.
Riders can take advantage of a full-service package including the participation fee and all the thrills of the race, food and accommodation, as well as the offer of various collateral services such as massages, mechanical services, hotel packages or companion passes. From this year, it’s also possible to pay with a three-installment payment plan with no extra costs, already extremely popular in this Early Bird phase.
The next goals? To approach the sold-out and increase the number of women riders. Currently, women only represent 5% of the participants, from 15% of last year: Appenninica hopes to see 20% of ladies in September.
Last but not least, clubs and teams can benefit from dedicated conditions and deals: get in touch with the Appenninica organizers for further information.
The partnership between the MTB stage race and #InEmiliaRomagna paves the way for an ambitious future: Appenninica will be a showcase for outdoor and active tourism in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines
Photo: The Outdoor Lab
Since its inception, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race adventure has been characterized by a clear mission: to bring into the spotlight an extraordinary Region like the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna, often overlooked in the scenario of the the main tourist destinations, and help shaping its identity as a chosen area for the world of mountain biking. With its high technical and organizational level, Appenninica’s storytelling and communication has enhanced the authentic spirit of the Apennines: its beauty and unspoiled nature, the people’s hospitality, and the genuineness of its food.
In view of its third edition, scheduled from September 12th to 18th, 2021, Appenninica looks to further raise the bar thanks to the partnership with Regione Emilia-Romagna and #InEmiliaRomagna, the brand of the Emilia-Romagna tourist board. This agreement recognizes the Appenninica’s efforts and outcomes, paving the way for a more ambitious vision in line with the Region’s strategy to promote the major sporting events. In recent months in Emilia-Romagna, Imola hosted the World Road Cycling Championship in September and the F1 Grand Prix in November, while Misano Adriatico was the venue of two MotoGP Grand Prix in September. On the other hand, the Italian Football SuperCup between Juventus and Napoli was played in Reggio Emilia on January 20th, 2021.
Emilia-Romagna found in Appenninica a wonderful showcase to promote the beauty of its mountains and give voice to these territories’ reawakening, to which the boost of the summer tourism is crucial. Not by chance, the 2021 Appenninica’s course visits three renowned Winter Sports resorts, now more and more committed towards the summer and outdoor sports offer: Corno alle Scale, Monte Cimone and Cerreto Laghi.
Appenninica’s approach is now ready to make a leap in ambition, thanks to the support and contribution of Emilia-Romagna.
“Once again, Emilia-Romagna confirms itself as a land of sports – said Gianmaria Manghi, Head of the Presidency Political secretariat of Emilia-Romagna, “capable of hosting events of every disciplines, thanks to its facility, organizational and hospitality system. As an event, Appenninica is growing and becoming increasingly popular among mountain bike fans. We want to support this event because it is a perfect fit with the structural action promoted by the Region to support our mountains, with the goal of relaunching the Apennines for good, as a place to be experienced and discovered in every dimension. Our mountains offer a wide range of possibilities, ready to match the demands of a large target: from natural and emotional tourism to sports, from wine and food experiences to cultural and landscapes itineraries.”
Photo: The Outdoor Lab
The Emilia-Romagna Apennines have promoted proximity tourism for years, encouraging people to discover unexplored places without facing significant distances. As a consequence of the international juncture, in 2020 many people chose the Apennines for their holidays or weekend trips, appreciating their beauty and genuine hospitality. The same feelings are also shared by the best bikers in the world at the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, who also spread the word on their experience through their network in different areas of the World. The strength of Appenninica is combining a high-profile sporting event with the area’s stories and traditions, telling the heart of Apennines.
Thanks to a well-established and close-knit organizational structure, and the teamwork with the hosting venues, Appenninica supports these locations’ efforts in the resilient challenge to find new ways of tourism and enhance their facilities and overall tourism offer. With this new partnership, the project will find new energy and support, strengthening its role as an economic driver for the Apennines and Emilia-Romagna. Through Appenninica’s valorization and a stronger synergy with local authorities, the visibility and recognizability of these territories worldwide will be strengthened, on the way towards the creation of a real territorial brand.
“The territorial partnership with Emilia-Romagna will be instrumental to further develop our event, and therefore support the Emilia-Romagna Apennines’ development project. In the past editions, the athletes’ feedbacks show how much appreciation these areas gather, and that they have a real opportunity to become attractive for active tourists from all over the World. We hope to significantly contribute to this goal“, explained Appenninica MTB Stage Race organizers Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi.
We’ve told the story many times but it’s time to explain the genesis of Appenninica MTB Stage Race here.
Over the past 15 years we’ve raced in 4 continents and year after year, race after race we fell in love with mountain bike stage racing. Not the competition in itself, but the experience and the challenge. The feeling of achieving the “Finisher” title changes the way you cope with problems and setbacks in life and if you have been there, you know what we mean.
Taking part in those races from South Africa, to Canada, to Mongolia, and Europe of course, were perfect excuses to travel with our friends and families and pushed us to stay fit.
A briefing for one of the stages of the inaugural edition of Appenninica MTB
Then something clicked: “Our Apennines could be – we thought – a very good place for such a race and not very many riders know its trails”. There are several races on the Alps and on the Pyrenees but the Apennines – an important mountain range of its own – did not host any true MTB stage race. We knew the incredible network of trails was there and that the “Italian divide” offered some unique ridgeline trails like we’ve not found anywhere in the World.
We put our skills to work (we know events but that was a different animal), we rallied the team – Happy Trail MTB, our cycling club, provided the core team but we’ve gotten lots of great external help – and we started pitching the idea here and there. I can say that we were motivated and optimistic but we had to overcome, and we still do, challenges after challenges coming at us from every angle: weather, permits, money to name a few. We are still writing the story of Appenninica but let me just say that there’s been an equal mix of encouragement and skepticism.
We’ll leave it at this: all of the work, the sleepless nights, and worries are worth it.
If you want, it’s a classic story of having a dream and making it come true with drive and lots of patience.
In a nutshell, Appenninica was started to share this part of Italy with the – great – mountain bike stage racing community and maybe to prove that the Apennines of Emilia Romagna could have hosted a top-level stage race.
What’s in the name? Appenninica is an adjective loosely meaning coming from or made in the Apennines, or “made in Appennino” if you wish.
The Italian MTB race to take place from September 12th to 18th over seven stages, 450 km and 16.000 mt of elevation gain. Porretta Terme will host the departure, while the final stage in Castelnovo ne’ Monti will be a tribute to Dante’s Divina Commedia. Fanano, Lizzano in Belvedere and Cerreto Laghi are the other stage venues.
The Emilian Apennines might be covered in white these days, but it will not take too long before bikers from all over the World are back to test themselves over some of the most charming routes in Europe. After the successful 2020 edition, Appenninica MTB Stage Race‘s OC looks with confidence and enthusiasm to the 2021 edition, to take place in the final days of Summer, from September 12th to 18th, 2021.
A highly-demanding challenge over 450 kilometers and more than 16,000 meters in elevation gain will be tackled over seven stages, riding in the wild and unspoiled nature of the Emilian Natural Parks. With a unique landscape, the Apennine ridge will guarantee an immersion in the authentic Italian atmosphere and culture, enriched by the genuine hospitality of Emilia-Romagna.
In 2021, Appenninica will count on five different stage venues, located in three provinces: Bologna, Modena and Reggio Emilia.Lizzano in Belvedere (Bologna) and Cerreto Laghi (Reggio Emilia) are the new entries among the confirmed venues of Porretta Terme (Bologna), Fanano (Modena) and Castelnovo ne’ Monti (Reggio Emilia). The 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race route will combine technical trails with scenic and smoother sections. The Appenninica course will also visit three different renowned Winter Sports resorts, now more and more committed towards the summer and outdoor sports offer: Corno alle Scale, Monte Cimone and Cerreto Laghi.
Photo by The Outdoor Lab
On Sunday, September 12th, Porretta Terme will host the first stage once again: an individual time trial, and also a tribute to the Porretta Soul Festival, one of the most renowned music events in the area. Also starting from Porretta, the second stage will offer a first taste of the real Apennines, passing by the Lake Scaffaiolo and climbing to the Corno alle Scale. Briefly trespassing into Tuscany, the stage will finish in Lizzano in Belvedere, the hometown of the late renowned Italian journalist and writer Enzo Biagi (1920-2007).
On Tuesday, September 14th, Lizzano will give the start to a brand-new third stage, ending in Fanano. The first part of the route will ride along the Gothic Line – the battlefield of the partisan liberation battles during World War II -, while the finale will take place on fast and fun trails inside the Cimone Bike Park.
The “Pippo Yeah!” stage, charted by famous trail builder Pippo Marani, will return after last year’s success on Wednesday, September 15th, starting and finishing in Fanano. On Thursday, September 16th, the Queen Stage will also start from the mountain town in the Province of Modena: following the 2020 Queen Stage route in the first section, the stage climbs up to the highest point of the race located on the Monte Cimone (1855 mt), on the way to reach the finish in Cerreto Laghi.
On Friday, September 17th, an entertaining stage, running entirely inside the Tuscan-Emilian National Park – awarded with the MaB Unesco for its extraordinary biodiversity -, will take the riders to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the last stage venue of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021. In fact, the race will be decided on Saturday, September 18th in the shadow of the iconic Bismantova Rock, the symbol of Appenninica. Named “Purgatory stage”, the last effort pays tribute to Italian poet Dante, and who – according to the legend – drew inspiration from the Bismantova Rock to create his purgatory, on the 700th anniversary of the Sommo Poeta’s passing. The loop course will pass through Fonti di Poiano, Gessi Triassici and the Grancontessa Matilde di Canossa’s territories.
Photo by The Outdoor Lab
“For the 2021 edition, we decided to stick with the same successful formula of last year, while seeking an even better balance between shorter, more technical stages and longer, faster ones. The evocative Appennine ridge will be a standout protagonist once again, and we will touch three ski resorts that are increasingly committed to mountain biking and summer tourism – something even more significant in times like these. We are happy to welcome the new stage locations of Lizzano in Belvedere and Cerreto Laghi, which will offer new beauties and scenarios to this great adventure” said the organizers Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi.
THE COURSE
Stage 1 – Porretta Soul – Sunday, September 12th: Porretta Terme – Porretta Terme
Stage 2 – Il Corno – Monday, September 13th: Porretta Terme – Lizzano in Belvedere
Stage 3 – Gold Rush – Tuesday, September 14th: Lizzano in Belvedere – Fanano
Stage 5 – High Mountain Queen – Thursday, September 16th: Fanano – Cerreto Laghi
Stage 6 – Park & Roll – Friday, September 17th: Cerreto Laghi – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
Stage 7 – The Purgatory Saturday, September 18th: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
HOW TO REGISTER
As in 2020, the organizing committee chose to allow only individual participation without the pairs format. In the “Early Bird” phase, until January 31st, a maximum of 55 athletes can register at a reduced price. From this season the organizers also offer a payment plan in three installments. For further information:https://www.appenninica-mtb.com/en/register/
With Appenninica’s trails riding through regional and national parks, in order to avoid the course’s overcrowding and provide the best possible experience, the organizers opted to set a maximum number of 150 registered athletes.
After the excellent outcome of this year, the event will remain in September. Registrations will open on November 15th
Photo by Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
Less than a month removed from a beautiful 2020 edition, the organizers of Appenninica MTB Stage Race are already working for 2021, and there is already the first significant news.
After pushing the 2020 edition from Summer to Fall because of the epidemiological emergency, the excellent feedback received from athletes and insiders convinced the organizers to confirm September as the month of the challenging stage race in the Emilian Apennines.
Appenninica’s third edition will take place from Sunday 12th to Saturday, September 18th, 2021, over seven days of competition. The September fixture should ensure the ideal climate for the competition, away from the peaks of summer heat and the early autumn cold.
Mid-September is also perfect for seizing the views of the Apennines and enjoying the real MTB on its unique ridges: “After this year’s success, despite all the hurdles, – explains Beppe Salerno, co-organizer of the race together with Milena Bettocchi, – we decided to confirm our calendar slot in September, two weeks earlier than this year. We expect to find slightly warmer temperatures and an even more eager welcoming since our venues’ summer season will still be open. Also, the international calendar offers us an interesting opportunity, as we aim to bring a group of top riders on the Apennines next year too”.
HOW TO REGISTER
As in 2020, the organizing committee chose to allow only individual participation without the pairs format, following an increasing trend worldwide.
It will be possible to register for 2021 Appenninica from November 15th, when the “Early Bird” phase will open: until January 31st, a maximum of 55 athletes can register for a reduced price.
With Appenninica’s trails riding through regional and national parks, in order not to overcrowd the course and ensure the utter level of enjoyment, the organizers opted to set a maximum number of 150 registered athletes.
A loop course around the Giarola Court brought Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race to an end. Hans Becking won the Men’s event ahead of teammate Tiago Ferreira and Lorenzo Samparisi in third, with Dutchman Rob Van der Werf claiming the final stage ahead of Joseph De Poortere. Esther Süss completed her perfect week in the Women’s race
He tamed the Emilian Apennine’s trickiest trails, ruled over the ridges, and even cruised in the heavy mud. On Saturday, October 3rd, Hans Becking conquered the second edition of Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race, at the end of a week in which he proved the clear strongest among participants from all over Europe. The DMT Racing Team Dutchman saw off his fellow teammate, XCM European Champion Tiago Ferreira, and Lorenzo Samparisi (KTM Alchemist Dama).
Becking also claimed three stages in this Appenninica’s edition, in Porretta Terme, in Castelnovo ne’ Monti’s Queen Stage, and in Collecchio, leaving his closest rival over 20 minutes behind. “I am proud to add this race to my list of achievements,” Becking said. “I had so much fun. I found courses for real bikers, beautiful and technical. And what about the sights? Amazing. It was my first time in the Apennines; it won’t be the last.”
The 34-year-old Dutchman also seized the familiar atmosphere at Appenninica. “Big credit goes to the event’s staff, as people don’t realize how much effort there is behind such an event. I was able to realize it in full this week, and I wish to thank all the people of the staff.”
His teammate Ferreira echoed his feelings: after taking part in the biggest stage races in the World, he discovered the Apennine as a new frontier, a territory born for mountain biking: “It was real mountain biking every day here at Appenninica. We had no chance to get bored for a minute. It was a good experience, both the race and the typical Italian atmosphere that has welcomed us.” The Portuguese will now turn his attention to the XCM World Championships in Turkey in late October.
Samparisi stepped on the lowest step of the podium, after battling with the DMT Racing Team duo throughout the week: “I am very satisfied. I won a stage and was in contention in every other one. To be on this podium along with champions like Becking and Ferreira makes me proud.”
The final stage, a fast 32 km course inside the Carrega Woods, Collecchio, was won by Rob Van der Werf (Twe Het Snelle Viat). The Dutchman edged Frenchman Joseph De Poortere (Rockrider Decathlon) with Ferreira and Becking, in third and fourth place, respectively.
“There was no better way to clinch this experience – Van der Werf said -. I did not expect to win, but a short and fast course like this was perfectly suited for my characteristics. I will return home knowing to have discovered a new MTB heaven. I will be back here, for sure.”
ESTHER SÜSS MAKES THE EN-PLEIN
Esther Süss could hardly ask for more to this Appenninica: seven stage wins in seven stages. Even on a short and fast course like the one in the Carrega Woods, while preferring longer and more intense stages, the former XCM World Champion managed to beat all her rivals.
“I am happy to have won this final stage, the least suited to my characteristics,” the Swiss said. “I beat many younger athletes, which means my condition is very good. What did I like about the race? Everything! The trails, the sights, but also the human touch of the organizational team. I hope to be back soon.”
Italian Gaia Ravaioli (KTM Alchemist Dama) closed in second place, surrendering only to the strongest of rivals. “It was my first time in a stage race, and I learned a lot. I hope more and more participants can come to this race, also to reward the effort of these brave organizers that gave us a chance to race, even in this challenging year.”
THE HEART OF APPENNINICA
The second time of Appenninica came to a close in the Giarola Court, in Collecchio, with the awarding ceremonies and the final dinner with the World-famous tastes of Emilia-Romagna, starting with Parmigiano Reggiano.
Crowning the 2020 Appenninica winners were the Mountain Assessor of Emilia Romagna, Barbara Lori, the Parco dei Ducati President Agostino Maggiali, the majors of three hosting towns – Maristella Galli for Collecchio, Enrico Bini for Castelnovo ne’ Monti and Stefano Muzzarelli for Fanano, and the President of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium Nicola Bertinelli.
Only six months ago, organizing a sports event like Appenninica seemed impossible. The organizing Committee led by Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno opted to hold on and move the event from Summer to Fall: a daring choice, but one that definitely paid off.
“In a year like this, organizing the event was a major feat in itself – the organizers explained. “We have had plenty of great feedback, and that makes us proud. Appenninica’s mission is to share our passion for MTB and promote our territory, the Emilia’s Appennine, still unknown and unexplored by most bikers. We believe that our mountains have won the heart of all our participants, giving us confidence for the future and making us more ambitious for the future. We wish to thank the whole Appenninica staff, whose huge effort over long months helped us to achieve this remarkable goal.”
Rain and heavy soil characterized the stage won by the GC leader, who raised his arms at the Giarola Court (Collecchio) and is now a few kilometers away from the overall victory. Joseph De Poortere was second and Lorenzo Samparisi third
Faces twisted and covered in mud in the patio of the Giarola Court. The sixth stage of Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race, held on Friday, October 2nd, showed looks of fatigue and emotion along the 93 km of race, from Castelnovo ne’ Monti to the Giarola Court in Collecchio. A cloudburst crashed on the race, especially in the second part, making the course treacherous and forcing athletes to deal with muddy terrain, deep and dense.
The weather conditions of the race might have changed, not so much the outcome: GC leader Hans Becking confirmed to be the strongest this week on the Emilian Apennines. French Joseph De Poortere (Velo Club Reanois) finished second, 5’55” far from the DMT Racing Team rider, while Lorenzo Samparisi (KTM Alchemist Dama) was third at 6’21”. European Champion Tiago Ferreira (DMT Racing Team) struggled in the mud and finished eighth at 19’20”.
Early on, the script seemed to be the same of the past days, with Becking and Ferreira pacing away, chased by the rest of the field. When the terrain got heavier, though, their action lost efficiency, and Samparisi, De Poortere, Rob Van der Werf (Twe Het Snelle Viat) and Federico Mandelli (Piraz Coaching) managed to closed the gap.
Just before entering the Taro River valley, a stretch of about 1500 meters with particularly dense mud put the riders into trouble: Becking displayed cyclo-cross skills to tame it and make the difference on his rivals, flying towards the third stage success. Behind, Ferreira was caught in struggles and lost touch with the rest. After the leader, the Giarola Court welcomed the mud masks of De Poortere, Samparisi, Van der Werf and Mandelli, with Ferreira slipped even further back to the eighth position.
“I had never raced under these conditions – Becking explained -. In some muddy stretches you just couldn’t go ahead, it was too deep and the wheels were stuck. In the end, it was fun. Unfortunately, Tiago instead got stuck and lost a lot of time”.
Samparisi, a cyclo-cross rider during the winter, has some regrets: “If I had fitted smaller tires, I could have gained a lot of time and move closer in the GC, instead I got stuck could not follow Becking. I also did a few kilometers with the bike on my shoulder, and at this point, if tomorrow we find similar conditions, the final stage might be more than a formality”.
Becking has further consolidated his lead and is now a few kilometers away from the final success: Ferreira is 23’58” far from his teammate and Samparisi 31’10”.
ESTHER SÜSS THE UNBEATABLE
Esther Süss is one victory away from the full loot of stages in this edition of Appenninica. The former World Champion also won the sixth stage, in spite of the heavy terrain. Exhausted, the Swiss once again preceded Gaia Ravaioli and the former Olympic Regina Marunde.
“The mud made this stage very hard. I had never found so much in an MTB race – Esther admitted. – I had to stop more than once to try to unblock the wheels with some branches. Surely it was not my ideal soil, but at least I can say that I really saw everything and won on various terrain here at Appenninica”.
ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 3RD THE GRAND FINALE IN THE CARREGA WOODS AND GIAROLA COURT
The final stage of Appenninica, on Saturday, October 3rd, is a short and fun ring course with Collecchio and the Giarola Court as both start and finish. The first ten kilometers are flat and fast on dirt road and then asphalt, skirting the Taro river before entering the Carrega Woods park. From there, the bikers will have plenty to enjoy over the following 20 km, characterized by fast and technical dirt trails with rapid changes of slopes and direction. The park’s beautiful forest will always be in the background, with passages inside the ancient villas courts where Marie Louise, the Duchess of Parma and wife of Napoleon, stayed.
After leaving the park, the remaining kilometers will be a long sprint on asphalt and bike paths until the well-deserved finish line, which will close Appenninica’s second edition.
Before that, the awarding ceremony will see the presence of Emilia-Romagna’s Mountain Assessor Barbara Lori, “Parchi del Ducato” President Agostino Maggiali, and the mayors of three host municipalities: Maristella Galli for Collecchio, Enrico Bini for Castelnovo ne’ Monti and Stefano Muzzarelli for Fanano. At the final dinner, the bikers will finally be free to taste the local delights with no more regrets.
The Portuguese rider of the DMT Racing Team made the difference in the final descent, taking his second Appenninica stage victory in Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Lorenzo Samparisi was runner-up, followed by GC leader Hans Becking. Esther Süss makes five out of five among women
Ph. The Outdoor Lab. Ferreira heading towards the Bismantova Rock
DMT Racing Team continues to rule at Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race. On Thursday, October 1st, in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, with the stunning Bismantova Rock in the background, the athletes of team manager Andrea Marconi won the fourth stage in five days at the Italian stage race. This time, however, they didn’t finish together. Tiago Ferreira managed to make the difference in the final descent that brought the riders to the base of the Rock, distancing everyone, even his teammate and GC leader Hans Becking. Second place for Lorenzo Samparisi (KTM Alchemist Dama) at 2’57”, narrowly guarded by the Dutchman, third at 3’06”.
After the Queen Stage efforts, the riders opted for a steadier approach to the stage, 50-km-long with 1800 meters of elevation gain. That resulted in regular pace in the early part, on fast forest roads and some uphill trails towards Montemiscoso and the Lake Calamone. Just before approaching the stretch around the Bismantova Rock, Ferreira decided to force the pace and try an all-in for the stage victory. Samparisi’s attempts to keep up with him were fruitless, so the Portuguese came in Piazza Peretti in Castelnovo ne’ Monti with his arms raised, celebrating his second victory in this Appenninica’s edition.
“The first part of the stage was very calm since we had no reason to push hard – Ferreira explained. – In the second, however, there were many fast up and down, so I tried to go for the stage. And I made it!”. On the other hand, Becking didn’t take any risk: “When Tiago attacked, I let Samparisi try to chase him. I didn’t want to push too hard. Even today, we were surrounded by beautiful landscapes, but after five days of competition on the Emilian Apennines, I understand this must be usual around here”.
Italian Samparisi, once again the most tenacious opponent of the DMT Racing Team’s riders, had to settle for the place of honor: “Unfortunately I could not follow Tiago, but I will try again in the next two stages that seem to suit my characteristics. After Fanano’s victory, I would like to repeat”.
In the overall standings, Ferreira shortened the distance to his teammate Becking and is now 4’38” behind, while Samparisi is getting closer to the final third place, having gained more time on Milton Ramos (Rockrider Decathlon).
Ph. The Outdoor Lab. Ferreira celebrating in Castelnovo ne’ Monti
ESTHER SÜSS HIGH-FIVE!
Esther Süss got the fifth victory in as many stages among women, not leaving even a shred of hope to her opponents. At this point, the en-plein of successes in this Appenninica’s edition is no longer utopia for the former World Champion. At 17’29” from the winner, Gaia Ravaioli (KTM Alchemist Data) was on the second step of the podium for the fifth time as well.
“It was a fun stage, with many ‘up and downs’, and beautiful landscapes – the Swiss explained -. I like to go uphill rather than downhill, but I needed a day like today, after yesterday’s efforts. Winning all the stages? I already did it at the Transalp, the 4 Islands, and the Andalucia Bike Race, so why not?”.
ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2ND, FROM CASTELNOVO TO COLLECCHIO (94 KM)
On Friday, October 2nd, long distances will be back in Appenninica. Collecchio and the Giarola Court will host the sixth stage’s finish, 94 km from the start in Castelnovo ne’ Monti (Reggio Emilia) after the athletes have left the Apennine massif for the first time.
The protagonist of the central part of the stage will be the town of Calestano, famous for its technical and fun trails. The Taro river valley will bring the riders to the final part of the stage, all the way to the Giarola Court, Appenninica’s headquarter for the last two days.
Ph. The Outdoor Lab. The leading group during the first part of the race
The Dutch rider of the DMT Racing Team, along with his teammate Tiago Ferreira, made the difference in the 110-km-long Queen Stage of Appenninica with over 4000 meters of elevation gain, further reinforcing his GC lead. Esther Süss continues her clear path among women
Ph. The Outdoor Lab. Becking and Ferreira leading the race
The Queen Stage was the litmus test for Hans Becking, and he passed it in swing. On Wednesday, September 30th, the fourth stage of Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race brought the riders from Fanano (Modena) to Castelnovo ne’ Monti (Reggio Emilia). The boys of DMT Racing Team once again confirmed their class, taking the lead of the race early into the 110-km-long stage with 4200 meters of total elevation gain, and arriving together on the finish line of the “Don Bosco” oratory, in the town in the province of Reggio Emilia.
With a fantastic open-air view of the Emilian Apennines, Becking and Ferreira attacked from the start, on the Passo del Saltello, increasing their gap on the Passo San Pellegrino, Passo delle Radici and Passo del Giovarello. Always together, the duo kept the lead for all the 5h48′ race and was the first to get the look of the Bismantova Rock after the last important climb of the day, Passo della Cisa.
With today’s victory, the Dutch added another stage win to the inaugural time trial in Porretta Terme, and he further tightened his grab on general classification, while his teammate Ferreira, XCM European Champion, was runner-up. Third-placed on the day, at 9’16”, was French Joseph De Poortere (Rockrider-Decathlon), who beat Lorenzo Samparisi (KTM Alchemist Dama) in a sprint.
“Almost six hours of racing, it was tough! But it was worth it – Becking explained -. The first climb on asphalt was fantastic, the view on the Apennines was more and more charming as we proceeded. Tiago and I set our pace from the start, and being together was a smart choice, since dealing with six hours alone wouldn’t have been so fun. It was by far the longest stage of my season, and certainly one of the hardest”.
In the overall standings, Becking holds 7’44” on teammate Ferreira, and with today’s performance, Samparisi managed to solidify the third provisional place at 24’58”, as Milton Ramos (Rockrider-Decathlon) closed more than 18 minutes behind the winner.
“Am I closer to the final victory? Probably, but I have participated in many stage races and I know that you can not be sure until it’s over – Becking continued -. The legs are still great, and no matter where I will finish, I will return home from Appenninica with very fond memories”.
Ph. The Outdoor Lab. Esther Süss before the finish line
WHO CAN STOP ESTHER SÜSS?
Days go by, but Esther Süss doesn’t seem to be giving up an inch. In addition to winning the women’s Queen Stage, the former World Champion closed 20th overall in the stage, beating many men colleagues. At 28’22”, Gaia Ravaioli (KTM Alchemist Dama) finished second.
“Mentally it was tough today – Süss explained, exhausted, after the finish line -. I was alone for most of the time, and while the landscapes were beautiful, I actually suffered a lot. I always try to give my best and discover my limits, when I’m on saddle I like to give it all”.
THE BISMANTOVA ROCK ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, WITH STAGE 5 CASTELNOVO-CASTELNOVO (50 KM)
On Thursday, October 1st, it will be Castelnovo ne’ Monti‘s day, with stage 5 starting and finishing in Piazza Peretti, in the old town. The first part of the route follows – in the opposite direction – a stretch of the first edition: after the first kilometers on paved road, a sequence of fast forest roads and uphill trails rise towards the Montemiscoso mountain village. A 5-km paved climb leads to the beautiful setting of the glacial-origin Lake Calamone, and from there, a long and pleasant downhill trail leads back to Cervarezza and another uphill forest road.
Back to the top of the mountain, there is a short and fun downhill that anticipates some “ups and downs” on fast roads until reaching the base of the majestic Bismantova Rock, an authentic symbol of Appenninica, and framing the last part of the course until the finish in Piazza Peretti.
The KTM Alchemist Dama rider won stage 3 (Fanano-Fanano), seeing off leader Hans Becking in a sprint. Süss is unbeatable among women. Tomorrow the Queen Stage (110 km!)
On the third day of Appenninica MTB Parmigiano Reggiano Stage Race Italy has celebrated its first success. On Tuesday, September 29th, in the third stage, starting and finishing in Fanano (Modena), over 50 km and 2500 meters of elevation gain, charted with the unmistakable trait of famous trail builder Pippo Marani.
Lorenzo Samparisi (KTM Alchemist Dama) saw his determination rewarded with a victory on the Modena Apennines, conducting an aggressive race since the first ascent towards Passo Colombino. In his wake on the way up, the iron duo of DTM Racing Team formed by Hans Becking and Tiago Ferreira, whose strenght and consistency was on display once again.
Samparisi, Becking and Ferreira proceeded together on the ridges between Croce Arcana, Lago Scaffaiolo and Passo del Lupo, whose beauty has been enhanced by a sky never so clear in this edition of Appenninica.
The fun and electrifying final descent made the difference on the natural singletrack to Fanano, in which the hand of Pippo Marani – the creator of Val di Sole’s “Black Snake” – could certainly be seen. Samparisi attacked again with courage, followed by Becking, while Ferreira chose not to take risks ahead of the Queen Stage on Wednesday. Samparisi had time to raise his arms in the final sprint, while Becking consolidated his blue leader’s jersey.
“I attacked from the start, we were three on the climb, but I knew the final technical descent could have changed everything”, says Samparisi. “I didn’t hold back, I took some risks, and that eventually paid off. Tomorrow, however, it will be a different story: you have to manage the effort, and then unleash everything in the final hour.”
Even with the competition in full, however, the three protagonists of the day agreed on one thing: “When we arrived on the ridge, Becking, Ferreira and I looked at each other and said– such a shame we don’t have a phone to take a pic! – We didn’t expect something like this before the start”.
Third place for Milton Ramos, looking more consistent and smiling day after day, at 6’09”, while Ferreira reached the finish line at 6’44”.
In the overall standings, before the Queen Stage, Becking has 7’44” on Tiago Ferreira, 15’41” on Lorenzo Samparisi and 19’24” on Milton Ramos. “Today we didn’t want to risk too much,” says Becking, “Samparisi pushed hard, especially on the downhill, while Tiago preferred to use some extra caution ahead of tomorrow. The Queen Stage will be decisive, anything can happen, and victory is not granted. The one thing that’s for sure is the beauty of the sceneries we get to see every day.”
ESTHER SÜSS IS UNTOUCHABLE
Esther Süss (RC Gränichen) continues to command the women’s race. The former World Champion took the third success in a row: an unbreakable supremacy. The second position was once again of Gaia Ravaioli (KTM Alchemist Dama), 23’22” behind.
“I’m focused on my own race: the only thing that can distract me are the scenarios that open up around us as we ride on a great course. Today the descent was so much fun; I enjoyed it all in view of the difficult stage of tomorrow, where it will be important to be on the top of my game.”
ON WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30TH, THE FEARED QUEEN STAGE: FANANO – CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI (110 km)
It is the stage circled in red on the calendar of all athletes. Two numbers are enough to tell why: 110 km and 4,200 meters of elevation gain. Tomorrow it’s Queen Stage time. It is the stage that leads from the harshest to the hilliest part of the Apennines in a succession of singletrails, from the province of Modena to Reggio Emilia.
After the descent from Cimone, a series of up and down will begin: Passo del Saltello, Passo di San Pellegrino, Passo delle Radici, Passo del Giovarello, all on various terrain, from forest roads to trails with roots of undergrowth.
The Passo della Cisa is the last significant climb of the day, leading the athletes in the medieval town of Sologno and opening the first view of the Bismantova Rock. From the village, the last descent and the crossing of the river Secchia will finally mark the desired arrival in Castelnovo ne’ Monti.
