The 2024 edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race officially kicked off on Sunday, September 1st, from the very center of Bologna. In the iconic Sala Borsa, one of Bologna’s historic libraries and a cultural hub of the Emilia-Romagna capital, it was time for the preliminary operations.

Among the riders were many familiar faces: from Mark Anolik to Clive Caldwell, from Lola Bakker to Zbig Mossoczy. Riders that are joining the race for the second, third or even fourth time, testament to the great atmosphere of the Appenninica Family, which often gets full praise from the whole peloton. “This is my fourth participation! It will be a fantastic week among friends, an experience like no other in the MTB world. I can’t wait to relive these emotions!” said Mark Anolik, former US pro downhill athlete.

The familiar atmosphere is one of the defining features of Appenninica, and a main reason why almost half of the athletes return each year. Even though the challenge is tough (400 km and 13,000 m of elevation gain), with demanding climbs and technical descents, more and more familiar faces gather on the Apennines to ride, suffer and enjoy together an incredible experience.

The route provides plenty of points of interest, and together with the world-famous Italian hospitality makes Appenninica worth the effort. It’s a perfect recipe to showcase the entire region through cycling, outdoors and an active lifestyle, as highlighted by the Delegate Councillor for Tourism of the Municipality of Bologna, Mattia Santori.

“Bologna is glad and proud to have you back after the first edition in 2019,” said Mattia Santori, Delegate Councillor for Tourism of the Municipality of Bologna. “You invested in our region, and it’s right that we welcome you in one of our finest venues, Sala Borsa. It has been a great summer for sport in our city: among others, we hosted the Tour de France, now Appenninica and next week the Italian Tennis Team ahead of the Davis Cup.“

FROM BOLOGNA TO LOIANO RETRACING THE “VIA DEGLI DEI” HIKE

Tomorrow, Monday, September 2nd, the riders will begin their journey from the heart of Bologna, retracing the footsteps of the Tour de France. From the Arco del Meloncello the peloton will head towards the challenging San Luca climb, two months after Tadej Pogacar, Jonas Vingegaard and the best road cyclists in the world. After a tough uphill start, the 43 km route with 1550 m of elevation gain will immediately test the riders’ legs as they journey from Bologna to Loiano.

Once the San Luca climb is conquered, the course will follow the Reno river on the same flat track as the “Via degli Dei” (Gods’ Way). It’s a well-known hiking trail on an ancient Roman road from Bologna to Florence, that in 2022 alone recorded 22,000 passings. This historical and unique setting will welcome the peloton and serve as a calling card for the Emilia-Romagna beauties.

In the final part of the race, the caravan leaves the city once and for all to dive into the Apennines and its wild nature. A first climb towards Monte Mario and a second one featuring 400 m of elevation gain towards the new stage venue of Loiano, will be the first judges of the 2024 edition.

Race preparations are over, everything is set: it’s time for Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2024.

The city and the Apennines, culture and outdoor adventure, flat terrain and mountains: Appenninica MTB Stage Race is ready to blend all these elements from September 2nd to 7th in a thrilling and exciting event. On the eve of the race, September 1st, Bologna will welcome riders from 24 countries, showcasing its international character just as it did in the very first edition in 2019.

Back then, the dreams of organizers Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno took shape as the Appenninica MTB Stage Race: a mountain bike marathon event designed to showcase the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, a wonderful yet lesser-known area. Now, five years and six editions later, Appenninica returns to the heart of Bologna, ready to provide a top-notch cultural experience while embracing the outdoors and off-road cycling.

400 KM AND 13,000 MT OF ELEVATION GAIN: FROM BOLOGNA TO THE APENNINES

Bologna, a city renowned for its rich history and prestigious university, will welcome riders from 24 Countries, embodying the international spirit that has defined the race since its inception in 2019.

Appenninica MTB Stage Race will follow in the tracks of the Tour de France’s historic Italian Grand Départ earlier this summer. Riders will pass under the Arco del Meloncello and tackle the iconic San Luca climb, the same challenging ascent that tested road cycling legends Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard just two months prior.

The race will then venture into new territory, including a stage in the village of Loiano and a section along the ancient Via degli Dei hiking trail. Familiar challenges await as riders reach the Corno alle Scale – once a training ground for Italian skiing legend Alberto Tomba – and the imposing Monte Cimone, the highest peak in the Emilia-Romagna region.

The historic town of Fiumalbo, gateway to Tuscany, returns as a stage host for the second consecutive year. The route then winds back through the Monte Cusna and Monte Ventasso regions, areas steeped in medieval history and once ruled by the powerful Countess Matilde di Canossa. The race concludes in the shadow of the iconic Bismantova Rock, a distinctive rock formation that inspired Dante Alighieri’s vision of Purgatory in his Divine Comedy. This striking landmark has become a symbol of the race, providing a challenging yet exhilarating finale to the event.

FIERCE COMPETITION IN BOTH MEN’S AND WOMEN’S FIELDS

As riders prepare to tackle this challenging course, attention turns to the elite athletes who will be vying for victory.

In the men’s race, Dutch rider Hans Becking stands as the clear favorite, aiming for an unprecedented third victory. However, his recent performance at the Swiss Epic suggests potential vulnerability. Fierce competition is expected from fellow Dutch athlete Bart Classens, who has already achieved second and fourth places in the General Classification in his two previous participations. Poland’s Pawel Garczyk is also among the top contenders. Notable outsiders include three-time finisher Federico Mandelli, Belgium’s Bram Saeys, and Germany’s Peat Weinberg.

The women’s field presents a more open contest. Portuguese rider Celina Carpinteiro and Swiss athlete Nina Brenn, who secured third place last year, enter as slight favorites. However, Spain’s Ada Xinxó Morera and Dutch riders Erika Koster and Lola Bakker are all capable of upsetting the expected order.

A GLOBAL COMMUNITY UNITED BY PASSION

The Appenninica MTB Stage Race has cultivated a loyal following, with many riders returning year after year. Olympic champion Miguel Martinez, who compared the race favorably to the renowned Cape Epic after his experience last year, will make his second appearance in 2024. Similarly, Mark Leeper, captivated by the region’s beauty, extended his stay in Castelnovo ne’ Monti by a week after a previous edition, working remotely while immersing himself in the Apennine experience.

As the event approaches, the Apennines are already buzzing with activity. Juul Van Loon and Bart Classens are training in Fiumalbo, while the eccentric Peter Wouters and his distinctive 9th Wave orange van have set up camp in Castelnovo ne’ Monti.

The Appenninica MTB Stage Race embodies the spirit of adventure, connecting the cultural richness of Bologna with the raw beauty of the Apennine Mountains. It offers participants not just a race, but a journey through history, culture, and some of Italy’s most stunning landscapes. The 2024 journey is about to begin.

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.

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.

One of the new highlights of the 2023 edition, Fiumalbo has been confirmed as stage venue in the 2024 Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 2-7), the most important Italian mountain bike stage race. This picturesque town in the Province of Modena, located near the Tuscany border, will be home of the race’s mid-stages, hosting the finish of the third stage, the start and finish of the fourth, and the start of the fifth stage.

On Wednesday, September 4, stage 3 will challenge the riders with a 59 km route featuring 2600 meters of elevation gain from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fiumalbo, traversing some of the most iconic ridgelines of the Apennines. From the Corno alle Scale area to Monte Cimone (with a much cherished KOM at Lago Scaffaiolo), this stage could offer crucial insights into the race’s final outcome. Despite the relatively short distance, the elevation profile rivals only the Queen Stage, making it the first litmus test for those aiming for the overall victory.

On Thursday, September 5, Fiumalbo will be the absolute protagonist of the day, hosting both the start and finish of the 55 km “Tuscan Borderline” stage with 1950 meters of elevation gain. As in 2023, this stage crosses into Tuscany, featuring sections through Sant’Anna Pelago and along the historic Via Vandelli, an 18th-century route between Mantua and Lucca, leading to the Alpe di San Pellegrino pass at 1600 meters above sea level. Here, a new ridgeline will fill the hearts and eyes of the athletes with breathtaking views of the entire Apennines, the Apuan Alps, and the Pisa Mountains—a perfect respite before descending and recovering in preparation for the Queen Stage.

On Friday, September 6, Fiumalbo will bid farewell to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race as it hosts the start of the much-anticipated Mountain Queen Stage. This most feared stage, with its 87 km distance and 2850 meters of total elevation gain, will lead the peloton to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, home of the race’s grand finale.

“It is a great pleasure for Fiumalbo to be a stage venue for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race again this year. Our village will be involved in three stages (two finishes and two starts), and we are delighted to be part of this internationally growing project. This will be an extraordinary showcase for our area, an opportunity to be remembered not only for our natural beauty but also for the hospitality and warmth of our residents“, said Alessio Nizzi, Mayor of Fiumalbo.

FIUMALBO: NATURE AND BEAUTY

Listed among the most beautiful villages in Italy and awarded with the Italian Touring Club’s orange flag for its tourist-environmental qualities for 23 consecutive years, Fiumalbo is part of the Frignano Park, straddling the Monte Cimone and Abetone areas. It’s no coincidence that the third stage, starting from Lizzano in Belvedere, is named “Monte Cimone Challenge XL,” and the fourth stage, looping around Fiumalbo, is called “Tuscan Borderline.”

Known as the “Celtic Village,” Fiumalbo features a varied landscape ranging from 800 meters above sea level along the Scoltenna stream to 2165 meters at the summit of Monte Cimone. This geographic diversity makes it a coveted destination for other outdoor activities throughout the year, such as trekking and ski mountaineering. Food lovers should not miss the typical borlenghi with lard and cured meats.

Since its debut in the 2021 edition, Lizzano in Belvedere has become a regular stage venue for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. This year will be no different, with Vidiciatico hosting the finish of the second stage on Tuesday, September 3, and the start of the next stage the following day.

While the first stage from Bologna to Loiano, along the Via degli Dei, serves as a delightful appetizer for the athletes, the second stage, with its 73 km and 2350 meters of elevation gain, immediately raises the challenge to a higher level. Scheduled for Tuesday, September 3, this stage will take competitors into the heart of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines through the Savena, Setta, and Reno valleys.

The first 25 km are the most demanding, featuring a rough and varied course, passing through medieval villages like La Scola and Rocca Pitigliana and encountering picturesque castles, including the enchanting Rocchetta Mattei. After reaching Rocchetta Mattei, a long 17 km climb with 900 meters of elevation gain will take athletes to higher altitudes, with only the first 4 km on asphalt.

From this point until the finish in Vidiciatico, in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere, the stage will follow the Gothic Line, a site of fierce battles during the Resistance in World War II. The “Gothic Line” stage is thus demanding but rich in history and breathtaking landscapes.

The following day, Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Vidiciatico will also host the start of stage 4, which will immediately head towards Corno alle Scale. Starting this year, the Corno alle Scale KOM has been established at Lago Scaffaiolo, with a prize awarded to the first athlete to pass through.

“We are honoured to be one of the stage venues for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, a highly appreciated event for which we are grateful as an administration. The Emilia-Romagna Apennines are a wonderful territory with great potential, and the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is an important showcase to make the treasures of our mountains known worldwide, from the landscape to the hospitality and culinary products,” says Barbara Franchi, mayor of Lizzano in Belvedere.

LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE, THE HOME OF ENZO BIAGI

Lizzano in Belvedere is a municipality in the Province of Bologna at the foot of Corno alle Scale, within the eponymous Natural Park. From the summit of Corno alle Scale, at 1945 meters above sea level, one can enjoy a stunning view that embraces the Alps to the north and the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas to the east and west. A place of peace and meditation is the Sanctuary of Madonna dell’Acero with its monumental trees and the silence of nature.

The renowned Italian journalist Enzo Biagi, a prominent face of Rai 1 from 1995 to 2002 with his program “Il Fatto,” was originally from Lizzano in Belvedere. Additionally, ski champion Alberto Tomba, who trained for his greatest success in in the Corno alle Scale area, has a connection to this unique territory.

HOW TO REGISTER

Registration for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is still open during the “Late Registration” window until July 31, 2024. As in the past five editions, the organizers have confirmed the individual format and a cap of 150 participants. This decision is aimed at avoiding overcrowding of the trails and ensuring a high-quality support standard for all participants during the race.