Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel
The coveted race provides the 8000 lucky cyclists with three routes to ride over the passes around the Sella massif, which are strictly closed to motorised traffic
For years now, it has represented an important appointment for the 8,000 lucky competitors, selected by drawing lots, given the very high number of applications, divided equally between Italian and foreign participants. Athletes and enthusiasts 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-Enel, scheduled for Sunday, 7 July, in addition to the competitive side, is above all a bike festival for the Ladin valleys. The start is scheduled at 6.30 a.m. from La Villa and the finish in Corvara, in Val Badia, 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 6 July, which aims to bring children closer to sport, as well as to support the Dynamo Camp foundation.
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. As usual, there is a theme that accompanies and characterises the Maratona dles Dolomites-Enel. This year, the theme chosen by the organising committee, led by President Michil Costa, is metamorphosis. Sustainability has always been another central point of the Maratona: edition after edition, a new element is added to make the event more ecological and less impactful for the environment.
Can't be there? Follow the Maratona dles Dolomites also on the RAI channels live, with guests and reports on the Dolomite valleys involved.
Road closures are decreed by the prefectures of Bolzano, Trento and Belluno and are guaranteed until the end of the race. Refreshment point, mechanical and medical assistance at Sella Pass until 11.15 a.m.
