The Appenninici – Jeremy Mahot: mountain bike as a social message

by | Feb 27, 2023 | Highlights

Many stories of sports and life can be found among the Appenninica MTB Stage Race riders. Jeremy Mahot took up mountain biking during the Covid period as an antidote to the death of a close friend, and in 2022 he concluded Appenninica to raise awareness about the problem of depression

There are many motivations for someone to take up a sport. Some develop a passion early on and others approach it with time. Those who do it to get physically fit and those who do it to find inner peace, to take their mind off life’s everyday problems.

Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2022 finisher Jeremy Mahot was introduced to mountain biking during the hard months of the Covid quarantine when gyms were closed, and one could only get an hour of airtime to play outdoor sports. Before then, he had never played this sport, but love was at first sight.

“It was a bad time, and a friend invited me to mountain biking. Unfortunately, not long after I started, another close friend lost his life due to depression caused by a concussion. He could no longer find peace with himself. At that moment, mountain biking saved my life, and I felt a duty to tell everyone about the positive impact this sport can have on a person’s life, as well as the social interaction with other bikers”, says Jeremy Mahot.

 

To testify to this, Jeremy Mahot got into mountain bike stage racing, participating in and completing the Bike Transalp in 2021. From there, the idea of sharing his adventures on social media and a blog, explaining why he was doing it and showing how everyone can achieve a goal if they want to, even finding the motivation to get through the darkest moments.

“I want to make people aware that concussion is a major trauma, not to be taken lightly, because it can bring problems such as depression, irritability, and lack of concentration. Talking is a great help to vent. I want everyone to understand that so many things can help to feel good. You have to be willing to put yourself out there. Within the circles of Mtb fans, you can find people willing to talk and listen”, explains the French rider based on the United Kingdom.

On his journey-testimony, Jeremy Mahot crossed paths with Appenninica MTB Stage Race, finding that sense of family and community he sought.

“I enjoyed Apenninica for the beautiful scenery and host cities, and it reinforced my belief that the Mtb community is unique. I now have friends all over the world with whom I talk regularly. I will go back in the future because the family atmosphere is unique. I left alone and returned with many brothers and sisters with whom I shared an experience”, he says.

From Castelnovo to Vidiciatico, Appenninica 2023 promises thrills and spills

by | Feb 15, 2023 | Highlights, Press Releases (2023)

Organizers have unveiled the route for the 2023 Appenninica MTB Stage Race, scheduled for September 4-9, which features six stages measuring 400 km and 14 thousand meters of elevation gain. In addition to Castelnovo ne’ Monti and Vidiciatico, stage venues include Fanano and the new Fiumalbo

Race organizers have promised that “reducing the format of one stage will not make the race any easier.” This promise has largely been fulfilled, judging from a first look at the 2023 Appenninica MTB Stage Race route.

Riders will have to conquer 400 kilometres and 14,000 meters of climbing over the course of six stages to earn the finisher’s medal of the 2023 edition, scheduled for Sept. 4-9, 2023. The Emilia-Romagna Apennines will be the judges of an epic challenge among enchanted landscapes, Apennine ridges, and beautiful Italian towns.

Same as last year, the stage race will start from Castelnovo ne’ Monti, in the shadow of the Pietra di Bismantova. Returning stage venues include Fanano, a historic passage in the Appenninica MTB Stage Race and Vidiciatico, a hamlet in Lizzano in Belvedere that will host the grand finale, same as it did in 2022. New for 2023 is Fiumalbo, a historic village in the Modena Apennines located on the border with Tuscany.

“The new format allows us to spread out the challenges better than in years past. The Queen Stage, scheduled for the second day, is slightly shorter and less challenging than before, but the following two days will compel racers to manage their efforts. The result is a demanding middle part of the race, with 400 kms and 14 thousand meters of total elevation gain,” explained Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno, co-organizers of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

SIX STAGES TO TACKLE AT FULL SPEED

The start is set for Monday, September 4, from Castelnovo ne’ Monti with 56 km and 1,800 meters of climbing beginning at the foot of the Pietra di Bismantova and traversing the lands of Matilda di Canossa. Compared to 2022, the La Matildica route has been further improved, with alternating climbs and descents that aren’t long, but they are challenging.

With practically no time to settle into race mode on Tuesday, September 5, it’s already time to take on the Mountain Queen Stage. Compared to past editions, the stage is shorter (89 km) but no less challenging with 3200 meters of climbing before reaching the finish line in Fiumalbo.

No time to rest because on Wednesday, September 6, a loop around Fiumalbo will again put racers under pressure. The Tuscany “Incipit” is the newest development for the 2023 edition, with a gradual advance into Tuscany inside the Abetone ski area, 79 km long with 2700 meters of climbing.

Monte Cimone is the big star in the fourth stage on Thursday, Sept. 7, from Fiumalbo to Fanano. There will be three climbs that day along the 57-kilometer route of the Cimone Challenge with 2300 meters of climbing to test the athletes’ legs once again.

For those who like the Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s approach to mountain biking, the stage slated for Friday, September 8, from Fanano to Vidiciatico will be the perfect manifesto. Appenninica Distilled with its 54 km and 2,500 meters of climbing is a combination of everything the Italian stage race has to offer: long and rideable climbs, technical descents, and wonderful views.

The grand finale is booked for Saturday, September 9 on the Monte Pizzo, with start and finish in Vidiciatico, a hamlet in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere. Same as last year, the technical 37 kilometres with 1750 meters of climbing will declare the final verdict.

HOW TO REGISTER

After the tremendous success of the Early Bird registration phase, which sold out in just 15 days, it’s now possible to register in the “Regular Registration” phase until May 31, 2023. Same as in the last four editions, organizers have confirmed the solo format and have limited entries to a maximum of 150 participants to avoid overcrowding on the trails and to ensure a high standard of quality in providing support to all participants.

THE ROUTE

Stage 1 – La Matildica – 56 km and 1800 m of elevation gain
Monday, September 4: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Castelnovo ne’ Monti

Stage 2 – Mountain Queen – 89 km and 3200 m of elevation gain
Tuesday, September 5: Castelnovo ne’ Monti – Fiumalbo

Stage 3 – Tuscany “Incipit” – 79 km and 2700 m of elevation gain
Wednesday, September 6: Fiumalbo – Fiumalbo

Stage 4 – Cimone Challenge – 57 km and 2300 m of elevation gain
Thursday, September 7: Fiumalbo – Fanano

Stage 5 – Appenninica Distilled – 54 km and 2500 m of elevation gain
Friday, September 8: Fanano – Vidiciatico

Stage 6 – Monte Pizzo – 37 km and 1750 m of elevation gain
Saturday, September 9: Vidiciatico – Vidiciatico

The Appenninici – From Argentina to Italy: Sergio Coratolo in search of his roots

by | Jan 24, 2023 | Highlights, Press Releases (2023)

Many stories of sports and life can be found among the Appenninica MTB Stage Race riders. In 2022, Sergio Coratolo combined the stage race in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines with a trip to Sicily, discovering the places of his ancestors
Some people participate in Appenninica MTB Stage Race to experience something out of the ordinary, some to discover new places and some to win a challenge against themselves. And there are those who, like Sergio Coratolo, have extended their journey to Italy from Argentina after the mountain bike stage race to discover their roots.

Sergio Coratolo’s grandfather was a native of Castellammare del Golfo, Sicily. Having decided to cross the ocean for Appenninica, he went to discover the places where his family came from, albeit this wasn’t his first time in Italy.

“I had already been to Italy, I had visited the Alps and Riva del Garda, and before arriving in Bologna for Appenninica I was in Rome with my wife. After finishing the race last September, I spent a few days in Castellammare del Golfo, where my grandfather was born, to discover the places of his childhood. On occasion, I also made a video for my father, who was never lucky enough to be able to go there”, said Coratolo.

Embellished by this romantic appendix, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race experience will also remain in the Argentinean’s heart for giving him a chance to discover the beautiful scenery of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.

“I learned about Appenninica MTB Stage Race on the web, and since I had already been to the Alps and the Pyrenees, I said this would be an opportunity to know the Apennines. With an Italian passport, I will gladly come to Italy when I can. I’m trying to visit as much as possible”, explained Coratolo.

The Italian stage race experience has been promoted with full marks by Sergio Coratolo, who promises to return.

“I think I will come back to Appenninica. I enjoyed the experience. It is physically demanding but enjoyable because it allows you to meet new people and have a fulfilling experience”, said the Argentinian rider.

There is still so much Italy to discover, after all.

6 Stages Enough?

by | Jan 14, 2023 | Founders Blog

If you ask us, an MTB stage race should have no fewer than 5 stages and no more than 8. Ideally, it should take place on a mountain range. Hey, it’s the name of the sport: mountain biking. Mountains represent the ultimate adventure challenge: you against the mountain. You against your limit.

If you are racing mostly others. and not your own demons, you are not racing our kind of race. We dreamed, thought, designed Appenninica to be the race in which you find that aspect.
It’s not about the clock, or at least not only, but it’s mostly about being under test. You test yourself in a deep way, physically and mentally.

A football match lasts 90 minutes; a marathon is 42.195 km long. Our sport is different: when it comes to UCI Marathon events, riders face racecourses between 60 and 160 km. Meanwhile, UCI states that stage races run for “four days or more and feature at least one long-distance stage covering the minimum length of an XCM event, i.e., 60km”.

Granted that UCI’s formats are arbitrary, yet widely accepted, MTB stage racing is and should be shaped by the vision of the organizers who are the ones who know the territory and trails best.

We have downsized from 7 to 6 stages for 2023. We have good reasons, but honestly there’s no perfect answer and for sure there’s no one right answer to the question “how many stages should Appenninica run?”. And the feedback was sometimes positive, sometimes doubtful. The decision was NOT taken lightly but we had our own vision to follow.

Appenninica is hard. If the weather does not cooperate, it can be brutal. 2019 – boiling hot – and 2021 – with a very wet Queen stage – put everyone to the test. There is no lack of climbing and long technical sections at Appenninica and that will be unchanged. We have so many alternatives to propose to riders, so many trails that we can ensure a race that is always different, but complete at the same time: tough, enjoyable, technical, fast, and of course panoramic. All those features will be in the race equally.

At the end of each stage, we see you, we talk to you, we gather feedback. We even notice the unsaid. We know that you want a tough race, and we keep it as such. When we had mercy and shortened a stage in the second part of the week, your bodies thanked us.

Logistics – another impacting aspect.
We have not hidden the fact that 6 is better than 7 logistically, because many of our riders make it to Italy from other continents. It makes sense to try to fit the race + some recovery + flights within a working week. If you have days to spare, you are in Italy!

These are some of the reasons why we say: six is enough and plenty.

Appenninica registrations start with a bang: 50 Early Bird spots already sold out

by | Dec 9, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

The first days of registrations for the 2023 edition (September 4-9) recorded an immediate success, selling out the whole early-bird contingent in just a week. The organizers offer another opportunity: 20 more early-bird slots to be claimed by December 18th

The crave for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is sky-high. There are still ten months to go until the event scheduled from September 4th to 9th, 2023, but it took just one week to burn through the 50 spots made available by the organisation for the Early Bird Registration phase. After the first registration slot opened on December 1st, the race numbers available at a reduced price quickly vanished.

As per tradition, the A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB launch the registrations with a special offer to allow those who have already planned their 2023 season to claim their spot for the challenge on the Emilia-Romagna Apennines at the best possible price. An opportunity seized by fifty riders from all over the world (Netherlands and United States in first place), also highlighting the global appeal achieved by the Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

“We are thrilled to have reached the sell-out of the first registration phase in a short time. This result is the consequence of the constant growth in recent years, which has made the event known almost all over the world. To help those who were surprised by such quick progression, we have decided to offer additional slots at the Early Bird price for a limited period”, explained the organizers of Appenninica MTB Stage Race, Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno.

The Early Bird Registration will be extended until Sunday 18 December, with additional 20 places at a special price. A unique opportunity for the many mountain bike fans who want to try an epic six-stage challenge along the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. Appenninica is a full-service race, and the entry fee includes not only the race number but also accommodations, meals, transfers between the stages, and other services.

After the 20 additional Early Bird slots at €1,090 have sold out, the Regular Registration phase will starts, at a fee of €1,290.

New format, same calendar spot: Appenninica looks forward to 2023

by | Nov 16, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases

The great mountain bike stage race challenge in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines trims its race days to six. The 2023 edition will take place from September 4 to 9; registration opens on December 1

The organizers of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race don’t like standing still. Following a 2022 edition, which earned excellent feedback from the world at large, the stage race in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines has already set the dates to be circled in red by champions and fans alike. The fifth edition of Italy’s most important MTB stage race will take place from September 4-9, 2023.

The dates reveal the first significant new development for the 2023 edition. The ASD Happy Trail MTB organizers have opted for a new 6-day race format instead of the previous seven, while maintaining the usual calendar dates in the first half of September. This choice was made to favor athletes in terms of logistics, and for a smoother race execution. Even with this new format, the appeal of one of the most challenging international races – as recognized by athletes and insiders alike – remains untouched.

“The 2022 edition has consolidated our growth. For this reason, we wanted to introduce a new format that won’t change the nature of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race but will allow us to improve some aspects at the logistical level, and also meet the needs of athletes, as well as improve the race experience. For 2023 there will be six stages instead of seven, but the setting in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will be unchanged, as will the difficulty and epic nature of the challenge conceived by Appenninica. We believe it can enhance the event’s value,” said Milena Bettocchi and Beppe Salerno, co-organizers of the stage race.

The countdown to registration kicks off with the announcement of the 2023 dates. The “Early Bird” phase will officially open on Thursday, December 1, and end on December 31. Only fifty slots will be available at a reduced price during this period. Appenninica is a full-service race, and the entry fee not only includes the race number but also accommodations, meals, transfers between the stages, and other services. The entry fee will then increase in subsequent steps from January 1.

As for the last four editions, the organizers have confirmed the solo racer format and the number of race participants set to a maximum of 150. This number is aimed at avoiding overcrowding on the trails and ensuring a high standard of quality support for all participants.

Arias and Diesner put their final stamp on the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race

by | Sep 10, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

The two overall victors also took the last stage starting and finishing in Vidiciatico, in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere. There were ninety-six finishers in an exciting edition experienced by athletes from 28 nations who came to discover the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna

They were the strongest racers all week and they wanted to punctuate this fact in the final stage as well. The 37-kilometer stage featured 1550 meters of climbing with start and finish from Vidiciatico in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere. The fourth edition of 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race ended on Saturday, September 10. Diego Arias and Naima Diesner were the winners.

The Colombian racer from the Hubbers-Polimedical team started out as a race favorite and he proved to be the strongest each day. This was true in the seventh stage as well, which Arias finished in 1:56:13. The general classification leader wanted to make his mark from the start by forging a white-hot pace on the trails of Monte Pizzo. Miguel Munoz Moreno (DMT Racing Team) finished 3:57 behind the leader with Felix Fritzsch down by 5:50 from Arias.

Arias’ debut at Appenninica was crowned with five stage wins and the victory in the general classification. The Colombian racer finished all seven stages totaling almost 450 kilometers with 16,000 meters of climbing in 22:05:11. Behind him were the two DMT Racing Team riders, with Portugal’s Francisco Filipe in second at 34:42, and Spain’s Miguel Munoz Moreno in third at 1:08:05. Completing the top five spots at the 2022 Appenninica were Dutchman Gosse van der Meer (Euro Cycling) in fourth, and Federico Mandelli (Piraz Coaching MTB Academy) in fifth. Mandelli was also the first Italian in the GC.

“I came out of the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race with good legs, I managed the race well during all seven stages. It was a very nice week in a fantastic area with a mixed course full of climbs. I’m happy to have had this experience and next year, I hope to come back and defend the title. Now I head to the MTB marathon world championships – I think there’s no better preparation for the rainbow challenge,” was Diego Arias’ final comment after winning.

NAIMA DIESNER TAKES THE TITLE

Having beaten the competition last year, Naima Diesner came back to prove herself in the 2022 edition. Diesner won the women’s general classification for the second consecutive year – this time leaving nothing to her rivals. Having won all seven stages like Esther Süss did in 2020, she finished her effort with a final time of 30:48:27.

Diesner also won the final stage in 2:45:42, with a margin of 12:31 over Debora Lana and 20:51 over Camilla Marinelli at the finish in Lizzano in Belvedere. The two Italians also finished second and third respectively in the general classification with more than an hour down from the German BUFF-Megamo racer. Completing the women’s top five were Elena Novikova in fourth place, and Rozanne Slik in fifth.

 

“It was a wonderful adventure again this year, I am delighted to have won. For me the Appenninica MTB Stage Race is like a family, I love the atmosphere of friendship after the hard work in the stages, it makes me feel at home. I can’t wait to come back again next year,” Naima Diesner said as she finished the week as the absolute star.

ALL CLASSIFICATIONS: MASTER, GRAND MASTER, GREAT GRAND MASTER

Not only was there a race for the men’s and women’s rankings in the GC, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race was also a week of battles in three other race categories: Master (over 40), Grand Master (over 50), and Great Grand Master (over 60).

In the Masters, the overall winner was the Russian Andrey Dianov ahead of Francesco Gaffuri and Thomas Jauner. Winning the Grand Master category was Slovenia’s Peter Vesel, while Italians Paolo Viglione and Federico Celeghini completed the podium in second and third place. There was another Slovenian victory in the Great Grand Master category, where Aleš Boben won ahead of Evžen Reitschläger and Raffaele Verzella.

96 FINISHERS AND A WORLD SPOTLIGHT FOR THE EMILIA-ROMAGNA APENNINES

With 28 nations represented at the start in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Appenninica made a name for itself as the perfect promotional event for the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna. Participants will remember the picturesque landscapes and regional culinary delights worthy of a postcard that have become the winning formula to grow the event year after year.

“Once again this year, we’ve managed to satisfy the participants, which confirms the good work we’ve done over the past few years. The Appenninica MTB Stage Race is increasingly recognized and valued at an international level – this is also thanks to the experience as expressed by past participants. The goal is to continue along this path by offering a race that is increasingly a mix of competition and adventure – a tough and demanding challenge to be experienced immersed in the beauty of the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna,” was the final word from co-organizers of A.s.d. Happy Trail MTB, Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi.

Encore for Munoz Moreno in Lizzano. Arias and Diesner still leaders

by | Sep 9, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022), Uncategorized

The Spanish racer from the DMT Racing Team sprints to his second stage win at the finish in Lizzano in Belvedere in the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Arias and Filipe complete the podium of the “Il Corno” stage. Sixth victory in six stages for Naima Diesner in the women’s race.

Miguel Munoz Moreno performed an encore in Lizzano in Belvedere. After his win in Fanano, the Spanish racer of the DMT Racing Team took his second stage victory of the 2022 edition of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race on Friday, September 9. For the women, Naima Diesner took her sixth victory of this edition in the Il Corno stage, featuring 59 kilometers and 2600 meters of elevation gain, which started from Porretta Terme.

It was a sprint victory for Munoz Moreno, who outsprinted Diego Arias and teammate, Francisco Filipe, to finish in 3:14:56. Riding together, the trio set the pace from the race’s first kilometers. The Spaniard took the lead on the descent from Lago Scaffaiolo to the finish, which was a winning decision because it allowed him to get out in front of his chasers in the narrow streets of Lizzano in Belvedere.

The general classification remains unchanged with Diego Arias holding his position as leader. The Colombian’s advantage over Filipe, who’s second in the general classification, is 27:15, while today’s winner is firmly in third place in the GC with a time gap of 1:04:09.

“It was a hard stage with a lot of tough climbs,” Munoz Moreno said after winning the stage. “I wanted the victory, and I pushed right from the start. We were three and I set my own pace. With three kilometers to go I attacked for the first time, but it was in the second attack that I managed to take the lead and win the sprint. Too bad about the crash on the second day because I think I could have gone for the overall victory.”

“It was a beautiful stage that we rode at a high pace. Munoz Moreno was clever to pass me in the last few corners, congratulations to him,” commented general classification leader, Diego Arias.

DIESNER IS ON A WINNING STREAK, BEHIND HER IT’S A FIGHT FOR SECOND

A new stage, a new victory for Naima Diesner. The German racer of the BUFF-Megamo team achieved her sixth victory out of six stages at the Appenninica by crossing the finish line in Lizzano in Belvedere with a time of 4:19:07. Behind her was Debora Lana at 11:03 back, while third was once again Elena Novikova, 14:12 behind the German rider.

Diesner’s goal now is to complete the 2022 Appenninica by winning all the stages, as Esther Süss did in 2020. She seems to have the general classification all locked up, while behind her there’s a fight for second place between Debora Lana and Camilla Marinelli. Thanks to today’s result, Lana is now second with a lead of only 8:50 over Marinelli. The last stage will decide who of the two will take second in the GC.

“It was another good stage that I remembered from last year. I set my own pace for the race, and even today, I finished with a smile,” remarked Naima Diesner at the finish.

GRAND FINALE IN LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE

The final stage of the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race is a 37-kilometer circuit with 1550 meters of climbing, with start and finish in Vidiciatico, in the municipality of Lizzano in Belvedere. The Monte Pizzo isn’t only the final stage, it’s a stage full of pitfalls to manage before one can win the finisher’s medal. The athletes will tackle the Cuplina trail twice and the Albaré singletrack descent once. The final celebration will take place at the Piscina Conca del Sole in Vidiciatico.

Arias wins again, Diesner breaks a record

by | Sep 8, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

In stage 5, the general classification leader takes his fourth victory at the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race from Fanano to Porretta Terme. Behind him the DMT Racing Team duo of Munoz Moreno and Filipe claim second and third place respectively. With her eighth consecutive victory, Naima Diesner writes her own page in the race’s history boo

Diego Arias and Naima Diesner once again staked their claim as the masters of the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Their triumphant rides rolled onward with victory in a fifth stage that added up 60 kilometers with 1,700 meters of elevation gain from Fanano to Porretta Terme on Thursday, September 8.

After Miguel Munoz Moreno’s victory in Fanano, the Hubbers-Polimedical racer came back to dominate in Porretta Terme. Arias completed his effort in 2:39:17 – 3:09 ahead of the Spaniard from the DMT Racing Team and 7:04 ahead of Francisco Filipe. The men’s GC leader set the pace from the first part of the race and soloed to the win at the finish line.

Riding in chase behind Arias was Felix Fritzsch along with the DMT Racing Team duo. Fritzsch unfortunately had to surrender his spot due to a mechanical problem and he paid the price: 1:19:35 down from the leader at the finish line. The German’s result has renewed the battle in the general classification. Filipe claimed second place behind Arias at 27:14 back, while in third place was his teammate at 1:04:11 behind the Colombian.

“Today I felt very good again; yesterday I preferred to save my energy. I took advantage on a very slippery climb and tried to go it alone, at my own pace. I also enjoyed the scenery, I am happy with this fourth victory and to have increased my lead in the general classification,” Diego Arias explained at the finish.

NAIMA DIESNER SMASHES ESTHER SÜSS’ RECORD

It was in the air and so it happened: Naima Diesner scored her fifth victory – her eighth consecutive win at the Appenninica, thus breaking the record of consecutive wins (7) held by Esther Süss after the 2020 edition. The German racer from the BUFF-Megamo team won in 3:40:39, with a lead of 10:59 over Elena Novikova and 12:58 over Rozanne Slik at the finish line in Porretta Terme.

Diesner’s next goal will be to hit the streak of seven wins out of seven in the same edition, which is currently held by Süss. The German racer has secured the general classification with more than an hour ahead of Camilla Marinelli and Debora Lana.

“Today is a special day and I am happy with this record. It was a very beautiful stage, full of ups and downs with beautiful scenery,” said Naima Diesner.

FROM PORRETTA TO LIZZANO IN THE CORNO ALLE SCALE AREA

Coming up is the penultimate effort for the Appenninica athletes, who will reach Lizzano in Belvedere from Porretta Terme by way of 63 kilometers and 2700 meters of elevation gain. Within the first 30 kilometers they will be deep in untouched forest trails absent of human settlements, but the route will become difficult after km 37. The day’s most demanding climb is the one heading up to the Passo dello Strofinatoio (6 km with 600 meters of elevation), with a hike-a-bike section in the last 500 meters. The final stretch is downhill to the finish in Lizzano in Belvedere.

Munoz Moreno takes the day in Fanano. Diesner poised for a record ride

by | Sep 7, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

The Spanish racer from the DMT Racing Team wins the Pippo Yeah 2.0 ahead of leader Arias, who consolidated his lead over his immediate rivals. Third place on the day went to Francisco Filipe. Naima Diesner confirms herself as the undisputed queen among the women

After the efforts of the High Mountain Queen Stage, it was time for some pure fun at the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The “Pippo Yeah 2.0,” designed by the famous trail builder, Pier Paolo “Pippo” Marani, was the star of the stage on Wednesday, September 7. At the finish line in Fanano, it was Miguel Munoz Moreno, who won the men’s race, and Naima Diesner, who won the women’s race.

After a fall in Stage 2, the Spanish racer from the DMT Racing Team had his day when he proudly crossed the finish line in Piazza Corsini in Fanano with a time of 3:02:27. Behind him, the general classification leader, Diego Arias, controlled the situation and arrived at the finish just 1:48 back from the stage winner. The Hubbers-Polimedical rider, however, gained time in the standings, as the other DMT Racing Team athlete, Francisco Filipe, arrived at the finish line 8:21 behind his teammate.

Immediately after the start, Diego Arias rode in support of fellow teammate, Filippo Bertone, who tried to attack from a distance. However, it wasn’t the Italian’s day, because Miguel Munoz Moreno had already planned his revenge and, on the climb to the Colombino Pass, Munoz Moreno waved goodbye to the group. Behind him, his teammate, Francisco Filipe, continued along with Diego Arias until they reached the second climb to the Passo della Croce Arcana, where the Portuguese racer could no longer cling to the leader’s wheels.

Arias now has a lead of 20:11 over Filipe in the general classification. Behind them, Munoz Moreno promises a fight for the podium. The Spaniard has a time gap of 1:01:01 from the leader, and promises to take aim at third place in the general classification – currently held by Felix Fritzsch, who’s down 26:50 from the Colombian race leader.

“Nice day and nice stage, I had fun,” Miguel Munoz Moreno said after his victory. “This morning I felt good, I had good legs, and I decided to try attacking on the first climb from further back. It was a very physical and very technical stage; it suited my abilities. I still feel good, and I will try to attack in the coming days to get on the podium.”

 

Also satisfied at the finish was Arias, who further consolidated his lead in the general classification. “I tried to help my teammate, Bertone, get away in the first part, then I controlled it until the finish. Nice stage.”

NAIMA DIESNER POISED TO BREAK ESTHER SÜSS’ RECORD

Naima Diesner took her fourth stage victory in this edition, and her seventh consecutive victory at Appenninica considering the three wins in the final three stages of the last edition. If the German racer for the Buff-Megamo team wins again tomorrow in Porretta Terme, she would beat the record of consecutive victories held by Esther Süss, the undisputed ruler in 2019 with seven out of seven victories.

Diesner completed the “Pippo Yeah 2.0” in 4:24:44 with a 9:14 lead over Camilla Marinelli (Bike and Fun Team) and 12:59 over Debora Lana. Both racers will maintain their positions in the general classification, unchanged at more than an hour behind the leader.

“Another beautiful stage, I went at my own pace, I didn’t want to overdo it after yesterday’s efforts. This morning my dad sent me a message and suggested that I enjoy this experience to the maximum. I didn’t know about this record, now I will have a bit more pressure for tomorrow’s stage,” said an always smiling Naima Diesner at the finish.

FROM FANANO TO PORRETTA TERME ALONG THE GOTHIC LINE

With its 67 kilometers and 2,200 meters of elevation gain, the “Gothic Line” is the second longest stage in the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Tomorrow the racers will enter the Province of Bologna by going from Fanano to Porretta Terme and following the route of the Gothic Line, a key setting during the Second World War.

After the start, the racers will climb back up to Fellicarolo and then return to the valley of the Ospitale. From there a series of ups and downs will take the athletes to the final climb to reach the picturesque village of Monteacuto delle Alpi. Two technical descents in the final kilometers will challenge riders before the finish in Porretta Terme.

Arias and Diesner strengthen GC hold with High Mountain Queen Stage wins

by | Sep 6, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

The Colombian racer of the Hubbers-Polimedical team managed the High Mountain Queen Stage’s 105 kilometers and overtook Felix Fritzsch on the final climb. Francisco Filipe consolidated third place. Naima Diesner is increasingly the queen among the women

In keeping with tradition at the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, today’s stage was the most eagerly awaited one and it did not disappoint. The High Mountain Queen Stage took place on Tuesday, September 6, and named its winners: Diego Arias and Naima Diesner. The two general classification leaders confirmed their supremacy along the 105-kilometer route from Castelnovo ne’ Monti to Fanano with a punishing 3650 meters of climbing.

Unlike in the first two stages, Diego Arias decided to control the long kilometers by waiting until the race’s end to launch the winning attack. In fact, it was only on the final climb to Pian Cavallaro where the Colombian racer of the Hubbers-Polimedical team was able to free himself of Francisco Filipe (DMT Racing Team) and Felix Fritzsch (R2 MTN CREW) to arrive at the finish in Fanano with a time of 5:22:46, just 59 seconds ahead of his German rival and 5:14 ahead of the Portuguese racer.

The three riders led the entire race by setting a blistering pace from the day’s first climb toward the Passo della Cisa. It was only near the end when the trio splintered on the final ascent, where Diego Arias ramped up his pace and shook off Francisco Filipe halfway up the climb. Felix Fritzsch continued to nip at his wheels until Fritzsch surrendered just before the descent. The Colombian racer took control of the situation on the technical descent and rode cautiously to avoid unnecessary risks.

The Hubbers-Polimedical rider further consolidated his lead by stretching his time gap with Francisco Filipe to 13:35, while the German winner of last year’s edition is only 57″ from second place.

“We all maintained a consistent pace because it was a long stage; it seemed endless. On the last climb I went at my own pace and made a move, then controlled the final descent, which was very technical. I am really enjoying the Appenninica MTB Stage Race, I think it’s a very good training race in view of the MTB marathon world championships,” said Arias.

NAIMA DIESNER IS QUEEN IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE

Naima Diesner’s smile continued to light up the women’s race. The German racer is now on her way to an encore performance after her success in 2021 by claiming victory in today’s High Mountain Queen Stage. She stopped the clock at 7:34:45 at the finish in Fanano. From the start the Buff-Megamo team athlete created a vacuum behind her and won by 17:25 ahead of Camilla Marinelli.

After a disappointing second stage, Debora Lana (Bike and Fun Team) returned to the podium today by finishing just over half an hour behind the winner. The Italian racer had to cede second place in the general classification to her compatriot, Camilla Marinelli, who piled on more than an hour in time different from the winner, while fourth-place Elena Novikova lost more ground in the fight for the podium.

“It was a wonderful stage and, unlike last year, it wasn’t rainy, we were able to admire some beautiful landscapes. I really enjoyed it,” Naima Diesner commented at the finish in Fanano.

PURE FUN WITH PIPPO YEAH 2.0 IN FANANO

After the efforts in the High Mountain Queen Stage, it’s time for some fun in Fanano with the stage designed by Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani. The stage is 55 kilometers with 2200 meters of elevation gain with start and finish in Piazza Corsini.

The “Pippo Yeah 2.0” starts immediately with a 14-kilometer climb to the Passo del Colombino before a singletrack descent to Ospitale. From there the route climbs toward the Passo della Croce Arcana to tackle a stretch on the most famous ridge in the Apennines before the final 18-kilometer run with 15 single track sections to finish in Fanano.

Arias and Diesner try to upset the GC, but the High Mountain Queen Stage is just around the corner

by | Sep 5, 2022 | Highlights, Press Releases (2022)

The Colombian strengthened his lead, but Francisco Filipe and Felix Fritzsch wouldn’t give up. Miguel Munoz Moreno lost ground due to a crash. Among the women it was a solo by Diesner, with Camilla Marinelli and Debora Lana as the German racer’s only rivals

The Bismantova Rock confirmed the verdict handed down in the first stage: Diego Arias and Naima Diesner seem to be the strongest opponents in the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race. The two general classification leaders tried to stuff more time into the GC by imposing leads in the second stage with start and finish in Castelnovo ne’ Monti on Monday, September 5.

The second stage sorted and ranked the men’s field. Once again Diego Arias dominated the stage, called “The Rock,” which stretched 62 kilometers with 2350 meters of elevation gain, with a time of 3:21:25. Arias finished 4:20 ahead of the duo composed of Francisco Filipe (DMT Racing Team) and Felix Fritzsch (R2 MTN CREW), who appeared more energetic than in the opening stage.

The three lead racers along with Miguel Munoz Moreno (DMT Racing Team) set the pace from the start. Same as on Sunday, the Colombian racer from the Hubbers-Polimedical team began to build up his lead around the race’s halfway point. By the time he reached the Ventasso pass, Arias was already more than a minute ahead. Behind him only Fritzsch and Filipe remained in pursuit as they tried to control the damage, while Munoz Moreno lost ground after a crash.

Not even a skid on a slippery section interfered with Arias’s determination; he was able to easily consolidate his lead in the general classification. The Hubbers-Polimedical rider now leads with an advantage of 8:21 over Francisco Filipe and 13:33 over last year’s winner, Felix Fritzsch. The toughest part of 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race is yet to come, however, and so much can still happen.

 

“Today I started with the idea to defend myself rather than attack, but at a certain point, I felt that I had good legs and continued with my rhythm,” Diego Arias explained at the finish line. “I tried not to risk more than I had to, and it went well. I’m happy with how I feel and how I’m handling the race. I slipped in a wet section on a small wooden bridge, but fortunately everything was ok. Today’s course was beautiful, with beautiful scenery.”

NAIMA DIESNER CONTINUES TO LEAVE HER MARK

The gap forged by Naima Diesner (Buff-Megamo Team) in the women’s race is even more impressive. Right from the first kilometers, no rival was able to match pace with the German rider, who finished her race in Castelnovo ne’ Monti with a time of 4:44:18. Behind her, Camilla Marinelli (ASD Bike and Fun Team) tried to keep up but she paid another 26 minutes to Diesner in the general.

After an excellent performance in Stage 1, Debora Lana increased the gap between her and the race leader and was forced to surrender her place on today’s podium and in the general classification to Elena Novikova. The Ukrainian finished 30:01 down from the stage winner and is now third overall at almost an hour behind Naima Diesner. Camilla Marinelli was second at 45 minutes 54 seconds behind the leader.

“It was quite a fast stage that I rode at the front – with a lot of climbs, especially in the first part,” Naima Diesner explained. “There was a lot of beautiful scenery, and I really enjoyed the final kilometers. I’m happy to have won again but now it’s important to recover well because tomorrow is the High Mountain Queen Stage, and we know how hard that is.”

THE STAGE OF TRUTH ARRIVES: IT’S TIME FOR THE HIGH MOUNTAIN QUEEN STAGE

If the first two stages served to warm up the legs, the third stage from Castelnovo ne’ Monti to Fanano will leave nowhere to hide. 105 kilometers with 3650 meters of elevation gain are in order for the High Mountain Queen Stage, the toughest and most feared stage in the Appenninica MTB Stage Race.

Much of the route runs 1500 meters above sea level on the trails of the Alta Via dei Parchi. After a fairly easy start, the day’s first climb toward the Passo della Cisa will begin to sort the racers, while the subsequent climbs over Monte Giovarello and the Passo Radici will bring the athletes up to elevation. From there they will continue at elevation to the Pian Cavallaro and then swoop down toward the finish line in Piazza Corsini in Fanano.