July 2, 2023 06:30
The most sought-after cycling race of the summer, in a unique natural arena such as the Unesco Dolomites, to ride free around the Sella massif
For years now, it has represented an important appointment for the 9,000 lucky competitors (selected by drawing lots, given the very high number of requests), among athletes and enthusiasts, who tackle no less than seven Dolomite passes in a single day: Pordoi, Sella, Campolongo, Falzarego, Gardena, Valparola and Giau, all strictly closed to traffic. The Maratona dles Dolomites, scheduled for Sunday 2nd July, in addition to the competitive side, is above all a festival of cycling. The start is scheduled at 6.30 a.m. from La Villa and the finish in Corvara after crossing passes and valleys of the Sella massif, along roads that have written the history of Italian cycling.
Those aiming for the most prestigious victory will certainly ride the "long" (marathon) route of 138 km with a total altitude gap of 4,230 m. The others, on the other hand, enjoy the "medium" route of 106 km (altitude gap 3,130 m) or the "short", the Sellaronda, of 55 km and 1780 m altitude gap. Sportful is responsible for the organisation of La Maratona for Kids on Saturday 1st July, which aims to bring children closer to sport, as well as supporting Alex Zanardi's charity association, Bimbingamba.
What makes this event so special is the desire not only to promote sport in a unique natural arena such as the Unesco Dolomites, but also to invite reflection on ethical issues of great importance. Can't be there? Follow the Maratona dles Dolomites also on the RAI channels live, with guests and reports on the Dolomite valleys involved.
