From the city to the province, through the ridge of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. It could be the byline of a local tourism campaign, instead it is he core concept chosen by A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB for designing the 2024 Appenninica MTB Stage Race route.
As per the tradition established in recent years, the edition scheduled from September 2 to 7, 2024, promises a demanding challenge. The race will cover 400 km and 14,000 meters of total elevation gain, guiding participants through the enchanting landscapes of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, with its captivating ridges and villages.
The race will commence in Bologna and end in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, with the iconic Bismantova Rock serving as the final arbiter. The route will feature again Lizzano in Belvedere and Fiumalbo, the latter after making its debut in 2023. The new stage venue for 2024 will be Loiano , in the Province of Bologna, finishing town of stage 1.
“The 2024 edition continues in the vein of the work done in recent years, yet introduces some new elements,” say Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno, the event’s organizers. “ The kick-off from Bologna and the introduction of Loiano reflect the growing interest in this competition. Additionally, moving the Mountain Queen Stage to the penultimate day may introduce a thrilling dynamic to the finale.“
DEPARTURE FROM BOLOGNA, GRAND FINALE IN CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI
The 2024 edition embarks from Bologna on Monday, September 2, ascending towards the Sanctuary of San Luca. Upon reaching the sanctuary’s vicinity, competitors will navigate the trails of the renowned “Via degli Dei“, connecting Bologna to Florence. The journey covers 48 km and 1500 meters of elevation gain, concluding in Loiano.
The challenge intensifies on Tuesday, September 3, with the “Gothic Line” stage, featuring 63 km and 2250 meters of elevation gain . Starting from Loiano, the race will traverse the Apennines, parallel to the ridge line, facing four demanding climbs, the last exceeding 10 km in length, before the finish line in Lizzano in Belvedere.
Wednesday, September 4, presents the “Monte Cimone Challenge XL,” a 65 km journey with 2850 meters of elevation gain. This stage, noted for its technical demands and significant elevation, will take riders across iconic trails, including those of Corno alle Scale and Cimone, between Lizzano in Belvedere and Fiumalbo.
On Thursday, September 5, Fiumalbo stages the “Tuscan Borderline,” offering a 69 km route with 2500 meters of elevation gain, showcasing the scenic trails and landscapes of Abetone.
The penultimate day, Friday, September 6 , features the “Mountain Queen Stage,” spanning 95 km and 3200 meters of elevation gain from Fiumalbo to Castelnovo ne’ Monti. Competitors will navigate breathtaking ridges and extensive forest trails, with new challenges distinguishing this stage from previous editions.
The event concludes on Saturday, September 7, with a 56 km loop around Castelnovo ne’ Monti in the Monte Ventasso area, boasting 1750 meters of elevation gain.
HOW TO REGISTER
Registration for the “Regular Registration” phase is open until May 31, 2024, with prices increasing after March 1. As in the previous editions, the organizers maintain the individual participation format and limit entries to 150 participants. This strategy aims to prevent overcrowding on the trails and ensure comprehensive support for all racers throughout the event.
THE ROUTE OVERVIEW
Stage 1 – Via degli Dei – 48 km and 1500 m of elevation gain
Monday, September 2: Bologna – Loiano
Stage 2 – The Gothic Line – 63 km and 2250 m of elevation gain
Tuesday, September 3: Loiano – Lizzano in Belvedere
Stage 3 – Monte Cimone Challenge XL – 65 km and 2850 m of elevation gain
Wednesday, September 4: Lizzano in Belvedere – Fiumalbo
Stage 4 – Tuscan Borderline – 69 km and 2500 m of elevation gain
Thursday, September 5: Fiumalbo – Fiumalbo
Stage 5 – Mountain Queen Stage – 95 km and 3200 m of elevation gain
Friday, September 6: Fiumalbo – Castelnovo ne’ Monti
Stage 6 – Windy Way Home – 56 km and 1750 m of elevation gain
Saturday, September 7: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Castelnovo ne’ Monti