Now in its fifth edition, the rise of Appenninica MTB Stage Race continues, not only from a sports point of view, as shown by the top-class contenders at the start, but also thanks to the partnerships with established international cycling brands as well as significant realities from the Emilia-Romagna territory. This positive trend underscores and rewards the efforts of the ASD Happy Trail MTB team led by Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno.
For the 2023 edition, scheduled from September 4th to 9th, several partners have confirmed their support to the MTB stage race through the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna, highly regarded by its athletes, and with a special strategical value for the region it crosses.
This strong connection with Appenninica MTB Stage Race has positioned Emilia-Romagna Region as a prominent destination not only for road cycling, but also in mountain biking, which is in high demand among tourists and enthusiasts at all levels.
Taking on the significant role of Sports Nutrition Partner for Appenninica, a race covering hundreds of kilometers with over 13,000 meters of elevation gain, is Enervit, a leading Italian company in sports supplementation and functional nutrition, with over 40 years of experience in the cycling sector, as well as a partner of the Italian National Team.
Among the companies from the cycling world, renowned French brand Look has extended its presence as official pedal sponsor of the event for the third consecutive year, while the jerseys worn during the stages by the classification leaders will be crafted by Natali Sports Wear, renewing a technical partnership that has accompanied Appenninica since its inaugural edition.
Barbieri PNK, a Bologna-based brand of bicycle accessories and parts, has confirmed its long-time support to Appenninica too, as has 9th Wave Cycling – the top-class Dutch high-performance wheels producer, which also supplies MTB Marathon world champion Henrique Avancini. Another returning partner is bike lubricants brand Squirt Cycling, while the crucial mechanical assistance service will once again be supplied by the expertise of Sport Bike Alicante.
Recognizing that bike performance starts with cleanliness and maintenance, the 2023 edition of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race will benefit from the Bike Wash service offered by Lavor, a company producing pressure washers based in Pegognaga (Mantua), part of the Comet Group, a holding from Emilia-Romagna with interests in over 130 Countries.
Prestigious Official Suppliers will also characterize the experience of the participants: water will be provided by the Gruppo Sem, one of the leading bottling companies in Italy. Iren will offer bikers the chance to refill their water bottles. Coop Alleanza 3.0 will provide organic products from the Vivi Verde range at refreshment stations along the route and at the finish. Joining the Appenninica partners’ family is the Meliconi group with its My Bike brand, utilizing the technology of one of Italy’s most famous companies in the production of TV accessories and TV supports to create bike stands.
In a region renowned globally for its culinary excellence, the presence of Barilla stands out once again as a key presence in the pasta parties at the end of the races, alongside the salumi and cheese supplied by Gran Terre.
Official Radio Partner Radio Bruno will bring music and fun at the starts and finishes, while SeTeTrack will offer the Official Live Tracking, essential to follow the stage progress in real-time and ensure safety for all athletes. Evodata will provide timing and rankings.
As part of the Appenninica Teen Camp project involving young adolescents in the race’s staff, Decathlon will also contribute as a sponsor, providing tents, sleeping mats, and camping essentials. Respect Me will supply shirts and eyewear with messages related to respect for cyclists and their safety.