The 2022 edition (September 4-10) of the mountain bike stage race in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will turn the route on its head by swapping the start with the finish (and vice versa) compared to recent years. Castelnovo ne’ Monti will kick off the 450-km, 16,000-meter elevation effort, while Lizzano in Belvedere will stage the grand finale. Fanano and Porretta Terme have also been confirmed as stage cities
The Appenninica MTB Stage Race does an about-face in order to offer participants a new route. The event, scheduled from September 4-10, 2022, will start from Castelnovo ne’ Monti (Reggio Emilia) and end in Lizzano in Belvedere (Bologna). This change is a calculated move by the Happy Trail MTB organizers aimed at bringing new perspectives and routes to the athletes while leaving the race’s successful mix of scenic routes and breath-taking scenery untouched, all while striking a proper balance between technical and fun features.
The route for the 2022 edition will wind along the paths of the Alta Via dei Parchi, amid the inviting landscapes of the Apennine ridge. The area’s natural beauty is a great source of pride for local tourism in the Emilia-Romagna region and is a highlight of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Compared to past editions, competitors will also face routes full of history and WWII settings, like the Lunigiana military road and part of the infamous Gothic Line.
Along the Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s 450 km and 16,000 meters of elevation, participants will take on yet unseen mountains while passing through both the main winter and summer outdoor sports areas of Emilia-Romagna: Ventasso, Monte Cusna, Monte Cimone, Corno alle Scale and Monte Pizzo. Even though the route is new, the stage locations remain unchanged. In addition to the above-mentioned Castelnovo ne’ Monti and Lizzano in Belvedere, Fanano (Modena) and Porretta Terme (Bologna) have remained in the Appenninica family.
credits: The Outdoor Lab
SEVEN STAGES TO ENJOY
The start is set for Sunday, September 4, 2022, from Castelnovo ne’ Monti with a circuit around the iconic Pietra di Bismantova in Matilde di Canossa’s scenic lands. The opening “La Matildica” stage has been named after her and spans 50 km with a little more than 1,750 meters of climbing.
Another circuit around Castelnovo ne’ Monti and the Bismantova Rock will be proposed for the second stage on Monday, September 5. 62 km and 2,200 metres of elevation gain on the menu, climbing almost to the summit of Monte Ventasso, with a view on the scenic Lake Calamone.
On Tuesday, September 6, the “High Mountain Queen Stage” from Castelnovo ne’ Monti to Fanano will be the first real test for the competitors. If the first two stages are meant to warm up the legs, the third stage (103 km with 3,600 meters of elevation gain) on the Apennines ridge between Emilia-Romagna and Tuscany will be a real watershed for individual ambitions within the general classification.
The following day, Wednesday, September 7, Appenninica will once again traverse the trails of the famous trail builder, Pippo Marani. The “Pippo Yeah 2.0” starts and finishes in Fanano in a renewed version of one of the most loved stages from past editions: 56 km with 2,250 meters of elevation gain.
Stage five from Fanano to Porretta Terme, scheduled for Thursday, September 8, will take place on the so-far untouched paths of the Gothic Line, the famous battleground of the Second World War. The “Gothic Line” will offer a smooth and fun route through 71 km with 2,500 meters of elevation gain.
On Friday, September 9, riders will head from Porretta Terme to Lizzano in Belvedere on a 60 km route with 2,700 meters of elevation gain. During the “Il Corno” stage, athletes will cross some unforgettable spots from previous editions, like the beautiful summit of Corno alle Scale – the mountain of Bologna – and the stunning Scaffaiolo Lake
The final stage set for Saturday, September 10, will roll out the red carpet on the beautiful slopes of the Monte Pizzo bike park around Lizzano in Belvedere. It is a fast and spectacular 37-km route with 1,750 meters of elevation gain, which will determine the winner of the 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race.
“Compared to last year’s edition, we decided to go against the tide and design a route in the reverse direction while still being able to enhance the most endearing elements of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. As usual, the breath-taking scenery of the Apennines ridge is combined with wooded passes in a mix of smooth climbs and technical, fun descents. In addition, we have worked hard to better balance each stage’s length with its elevation gain. We are sure it will be a spectacular edition,” said the Appenninica MTB Stage Race organizers, Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi.
Same as in 2021, the organizing committee is allowing individual participation only. After the Early Bird phase sold out, and almost 100 registrations already confirmed out of the 150 maximum, riders can sign up for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race with the “Regular Registration” fee until May 31, 2022. Furthermore, a three-installment payment plan is also available.
The race numbers reserved for the Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s Early Bird registration phase were sold out for the second consecutive year. With less than nine months to the go, two-thirds of the available spots are already gone, with new Countries also joining the party
If seems like 2022 Appenninica MTB Stage Race is already off to a very good start. At the end of December, the best-price Early Bird registration phase came to a close: all the available numbers for such period were sold out for the second straight year, as demands and attention keep increasing for the event whose 4th edition will be held from September 4th to 10th, 2022, in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines.
Among the Early Bird entrants, the 2021 participants who confirmed their participation with the Appenninica Family deal and those who chose to pass on their 2021 registration due to COVID-related circumstances, the event’s peloton already amounts nearly 100 riders, two-thirds of the closed number of 150 participants, with little less than nine months to the start.
Increasing interest also results in more Countries being represented at the event: Appenninica remains very popular among riders from the Netherlands and Belgium, already the most represented Countries in 2021, but Mexico, Brazil and Costa Rica also show in the list, with an increased presence also from American and Sweden, while new riders are expected from Spain. That is excellent news for an event whose main purpose is making the Apennines and the Emilia-Romagna’s beauties renowned on the international scale.
On January 1st, the “regular registration” phase has opened (1.290 €), to be followed by the eventual “late registration” period (1.490 €). Registrations will close upon reaching the maximum number of 150 participants.
At Appenninica, riders are guaranteed a full-service package, including the race number and all the thrills of the race, food and accommodation, as well as the offer of additional on-demand services such as massages, mechanical services, hotel packages or companion passes. It’s also possible to require a prorated payment plan in three instalments with no extra costs, a very popular choice also among Early Bird entrants.
The Italian mountain bike stage race will take place in September 2022, but will move a few days earlier compared to 2021. The “Early Bird” registration phase starts on November 15th
Just little time to enjoy the show of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, and for Appenninica MTB Stage Race is already time to start planning for a new adventure. The Italian mountain bike stage race has disclosed the dates of next year’s event: the fourth edition of the event will take place from September 4th to 10th, 2022.
In the 2021 edition, which ended less than two months ago, Appenninica has further established itself among the most relevant events in Italian mountain bike, collecting significant success among riders and stakeholders on the international scale. For the 2022 edition, the A.S.D. Happy Trail MTB organizers have opted to move the dates a few days earlier, yet confirming its late-summer fixture for the third year in a row.
“Our goal is to grow further, strengthening Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s positioning as a unique competition for its technical level, the wild and amazing landscapes, and for the extraordinary atmosphere that riders breathe within the Appenninica family. The feedback from riders and insiders at the end of the 2021 edition has given us further energy and motivation. We want to keep focussing on our distinguishing features, while building around them an increasingly engaging and attractive event, a showcase for the territory and the Emilia-Romagna Apennines”, said Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi, co-organizers of the race.
The registration opening date has also been fixed on Monday, November 15th, 2021, when the “Early Bird” phase will get off. In this phase, there are 50 numbers available within January 31st, 2022, providing the chance to register at the lowest fee, and pay in several instalments. Like many stage events, Appenninica is a full-service race, which means that not only the participation, but also accommodation, meals, transfers between stages and other services, are included in the fee.
The “solo” formula has been confirmed also for the 2022 edition, as well as the maximum number of 150 registered riders, to avoid overcrowding of trails and to guarantee higher race standards.
In the final stage, Felix Fritzsch gained more terrain over Bart Classens, on his way to the overall victory. Elia Taverna won the final stage and earned the third step of the podium. Diesner finalized a dominating display to be crowned queen of Appenninica 2021
Credits: Francesco Narcisi / The Outdoor Lab
The test of the Bismantova Rock gave Felix Fritzsch the Men’s crown of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021. Winner of the opening stage in Porretta Terme, the German completed the stage race on the Emilia-Romagna Apennines in first position, showing consistency and tactical acumen to beat Bart Classens in the GC by 8:09, responding to the Dutchman’s comeback after the High Mountain Queen Stage.
Fritzsch was not among the top favorites before the race, yet on Saturday, September 18th, 2021, on the finish line in Piazza Peretti in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the German enriched his palmares, adding the Appenninica overall to the 2018 Rally di Romagna. The 32-year-old of the RSG 52 Stolbergteam completed the seven stages in 20:49:55, ahead of Dutch Bart Classens (second) and Elia Taverna, third at 37:22.
“I’m really happy for the final victory. The race was very hard and I’m tired but we rode in wonderful landscapes and the Apennines are stunning. I’m proud to have completed the race, that was my goal at the start, but it was a fantastic experience. Now that I won the leader jersey, I have to come back next year and defend it”, said Felix Fritzsch on the finish line.
After riding all week in the front positions, Elia Taverna finally achieved a stage victory on the final day, 50 km and 1600 metres of elevation gain. The Italian rider managed to win the final stage in 2:27:55, setting the pace with Fritzsch and Classens in the first part of race, until a flat tire forced the Dutchman out of the game. At the finish, Fritzsch gave Elia Taverna the green light to the stage win.
“Finally, I have got a stage victory. I’m happy of how I have been racing this week and I’m fully satisfied about my participation. I didn’t think I’d be such at the sharp end, and to win a stage, so it’s all very positive”, said Elia Taverna.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
NAIMA DIESNER’S CONQUERS APPENNINICA
An absolute protagonist of this edition, Naima Diesner’s attitude conquered the entire caravan of Appenninica. The German got another win at the shade of the Bismantova Rock in 2:51:57, ahead of Virginia Cancellieri by 7:21 and Evelyn Sulzer by 8:13. After the expected battles in the first stages, Diesner dominated the race starting from the High Mountain Queen Stage and winning four out of seven stages. In the overall standings, the Tuspo Weemde team rider finished Appenninica in 26:24:58, with an advantage of 59:37 on Virginia Cancellieri and 1:26:09 on Evelyn Sulzer.
“It was a fantastic experience. At Appenninica MTB Stage Race I found a wonderful atmosphere, the people welcomed me in an extraordinary way. This victory is also for those who couldn’t race it till the end due to some crashes or mechanical problems. I really enjoyed the race and I’d love to be back next year”, explained Naima Diesner.
Credits: Francesco Narcisi / The Outdoor Lab
APPENNINICA EYES FURTHER GROWTH IN 2022
At the end of the 2021 edition, the Appenninica MTB Stage Race organizers drew a positive wrap-up of the experience, looking forward to 2022 with new drive and confidence. The 106 athletes coming from 16 different Countries expressed positive comments towards the Emilia-Romagna Apennines stage race, where they fell in love with the atmosphere through the whole week.
“The feedback from the riders confirms that Appenninica belongs among the main mountain bike stage races in Europe. Many athletes felt at home while discovering unexpected landscapes among the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. The competition was tough, showing that the route gave nothing for granted and needed to be prepared in the best possible way. We lived an intense week full of emotions, thanks to the beautiful landscapes and the passion of the athletes. We are already looking forward to 2022 with the aim of growing further”, said the Appenninica organizers, Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi.
The final awarding ceremony in Piazza Peretti was attended by the Antonella Incerti, member of the Italian Parliament’s Agriculture Commission and representative of the Emilia-Romagna Region, the Public Works Councillor of Castelnovo ne’ Monti Giorgio Severi, and on behalf of the Coop Alleanza 3.0 Directors Board, Chiara Saccani. “I want to express a big thank you to the OC and to all athletes – said Antonella Incerti-. We are investing on the Apennines and on these areas that have a great potential. Appenninica is an important chance to showcase the territory in all his features, from landscapes to hospitality and cuisine”.
After the the “High Mountain Queen Stage”, the Dutch biker took also the sixth one in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, but Felix Fritzsch remained on his wheel and in the GC lead. Tomorrow, the Bismantova Rock will crown the king of Appenninica. Another victory for leader Naima Diesner among women
Credits: Francesco Narcisi / The Outdoor Lab
Following his feat in the “High Mountain Queen Stage”, Bart Classens delivered another success in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, on Friday, September 17th, 2021. The Dutchman won Appenninica MTB Stage Race’s 6th test, started from Cerreto Laghi, whose distance was shortened to 45 km and 1200 metres of elevation gain after yesterday’s downpours had affected the safety conditions on some trails. On the finish line of Piazza Peretti, Classens outsprinted GC leader Felix Fritzsch, ending his effort in 2:05:36.
Bart Classens got off to a strong start, trying to attack Fritzsch’s lead, but the German biker managed the situation, getting back on the Dutchman’s wheels halfway into the race. From there, the two continued together to the finish, where Classens won the duo’s sprint. The final outcome will be decided tomorrow, when Felix Fritzsch will have a 6:36 advantage to defend. Italy’s Elia Taverna was third both in the stage, with a 4:01 gap, and in general classification, over 30 minutes behind the German.
“I tried to pick up the pace in the early part of stage to try to put Felix (Fritzsch) into trouble, and I managed to drop him at first, but he made his way back. Tomorrow, I’ll also need some of luck, because Fritzsch has a solid lead to manage”, explained Bart Classens.
Naima Diesner had already proved to be the strongest of the field in the previous stages, but she wanted to make her participation in the Appenninica MTB Stage Race even more successful, taking her third stage victory in 2:30:12. After thanking the O.C. on social networks for their handling of the “High Mountain Queen Stage” tough weather conditions, the German biker dug a further gap in the general classification, which she leads with 52:16 on Virginia Cancellieri.
At the finish in Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Evelyn Sulzer took second place with a 9:37 gap, while the Italian biker of the Orbea Factory Team was 12:35 adrift, giving up any further hope for the overall glory. After the start, the three best riders rode together, until an attack by the duo Cancellieri-Sulzer, to which Diesner replied and further insisted with her pace, flying alone to the finish line.
“I started with the idea of managing my advantage. Virginia (Cancellieri) and Evelyn (Sulzer) tried to raise the pace and so did I. I’m happy to be here in Appenninica and I think that the situation in general classification is now quite secure, but I still have to be careful”, said Naima Diesner after the finish line.
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
THE 2021 EDITION TO BE DECIDED ON DANTE’S PURGATORY
After the efforts of an intense week, it will be the “Purgatory” stage to decide the final classification of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021, on Saturday, September 18th. In Castelnovo ne’ Monti, the anticipated final act will take place over 50 km and 1600 metres of elevation gain, which will crown the winner of the 2021 edition between Fritzsch and Classens.
On the 700th anniversary of the of poet Dante Alighieri’s death, the final judge of Appenninica will be the Bismantova Rock, which according to tradition inspired the Purgatory of the Divine Comedy. Leaving the town of Castelnovo, the route will continue for 13 km on the sinuous track until the steep climb to Monte Fasola. After a long downhill to the Secchia river, allowing for a short breather, the riders will climb again towards the Bismantova Rock, before heading back downtown to the finish line in Piazza Peretti.
The unexpected change of weather conditions in the final part of the stage forced the organizers to neutralize the Queen Stage at km 84. The Dutchman won over Felix Frtizsch, the new overall leader after Ilias Periklis retired. Naima Diesner gets closer to the final victory
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
A heavy storm affected the “High Mountain Queen Stage”, the most awaited stage of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021, on Thursday, September 16th. The rain took the spotlight in this stage, initially of 98 km and neutralized at km 84 on the Pradarena Pass, due to a violent cloudburst hitting the finish line of Cerreto Laghi. The weather, expected to improve by the time of arrival, played a bad joke to the Appenninica family.
To guarantee the safety of all athletes, Appenninica MTB Stage Race organizers Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi, decided to shorten the race when the weather situation got worse in the final part of the race: “The riders’ safety is always our priority – said the OC -. When things got worse, we took a tough decision but the most responsible one.“
The fight for the final victory was shaken up, as the race lost two standout protagonists after 30 km due to the cold: Milton Ramos, winner in Fanano, and GC leader Ilias Periklis, who had already won two stages. The Greek of the DMT Racing Team opted to put his foot down to preserve his form for the upcoming MTB Marathon World Championships on next October 2nd.
A heroic Bart Classens was able to tame the rain, winning in in 4:49:00 and gaining 12 minutes on new overall leader Felix Fritzsch. The German is back in the blue jersey with 6:36 on the Dutchman. Italy’s Elia Taverna, who rode all week in the top poisitions, arrived with 17 minutes of delay from today’s winner and he’s now 33:26 behind Fritzsch.
“It was a crazy stage, but with this weather very similar to my Netherlands, and I git hyped – commented stage winner Bart Classens – On the first climb I was together with Ilias (Periklis) but I didn’t see him quitting the race. At the second feed zone I lost sight on Felix Fritzsch so I went at my own pace. In these situations if you slow down you just feel colder, anyway I didn’t realize I had won”.
Naima Diesner got even closer to the final victory in the women’s category. The German arrived at km 84 after 6 hours and 28 minutes, beating Virginia Cancellieri by 23 minutes. The Italian athlete couldn’t keep up from the early kilometers, and saw her overall chances fade, now with 39:41 to recover. Austrian Evelyn Sulzer has confirmed her third position, paying 29 minutes on the finish line, and now with an over one-hour delay.
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
THE RACE HEADS TO CASTELNOVO NE’ MONTI
After the “High Mountain Queen Stage” which shook up the general classification, the race resumes on Friday, September 17th, towards Castelnovo ne’ Monti. After the departure from the ski resort of Cerreto Laghi, the athletes will face 65 km and 2050 meters of total elevation gain for a stage completely charted inside the Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Tosco Emiliano, Unesco MAB Reserve.
The “Park & Roll” stage runs along the Pranda Lake in the initial part, then up to the Pradarena Pass. After the descent towards the Collagna Valley, the race climbs again through the Parmigiano Reggiano mountain pastures. After the Pratizzano Pass, the athletes will reach Lake Calamone, before tackling the final kilometres to the finish line, in the Cervarezza Bike Park.
Milton Ramos put his signature on Appenninica MTB Stage Race stage 4 thanks to a masterful downhill, beating Periklis, Fritzsch and Classens. Virginia Cancellieri won in the women’s category, bouncing back after stage 3 disappointment
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
Halflway through his second participation at Appenninica MTB Stage Race, Milton Ramos has finally broken the ice on Tuesday, September 15th 2021. The “Zorro of the desert” won the fourth stage with start and finish in Piazza Corsini in Fanano, 48 km and 2150 meters of elevation gain charted by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani. A fast and technical course that exalted Ramos’ skills, especially in the long downhill towards the city centre, with 15 single track sections.
On the climb up to the Croce Arcana Pass, four riders were in front: along with Milton Ramos, the general classification leaders Ilias Periklis, Felix Frtizsch, and Dutchman Bart Classens. On the downhill,l Ramos started his own personal show, leaving everyone behind and crossing the finish line after 2:51:57 with a 1:18 advantage on Periklis. A little further back, Felix Fritzsch completed the day’s podium with a gap of 1:24.
After last year’s participation, finished with the fourth place overall, Ramos took his first victory in the Apennines of Emilia-Romagna. “The stage was very hard, with tough climbs, but very fast in the second downhill part. I gave everything and took risks several times, but I wanted to win here at the Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Finally, I did it“, Milton Ramos explained at the finish line
The situation in the general classification remains unchanged: Periklis has maintained his shallow advantage of 31 seconds over Fritzsch. Stable third in the general classification is Bart Classens, now with a delay of 19:07. “The stage was very good; I managed my energies with an eye on the GC. Tomorrow we’ll have a very long and difficult stage, with rain expected, so we’ll have to be focused and even more careful because the gap with Frtizsch is really small“, Periklis said at the finish line.
Furthermore, the winner of 2001 and 2003 Giro d’Italia, Gilberto Simoni has joined the Appenninica MTB Stage Race family in Fanano, as an out-of-competition special guest. The Italian climber immediately tested himself in the today’s stage, enjoying the track by Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, whom he met at the start. Simoni will also ride in stage 5 and 6 to Castelnovo ne’ Monti, facing the hardness of the Apennines routes.
Credits: Alyona Blagikh / The Outdoor Lab
CANCELLIERI’S VICTORY IGNITES THE BATTLE
The Women’s category keeps adding interest and uncertainty. Virginia Cancellieri returned to victory, immediately redeeming her underwhewlming performance in the third stage. The Orbea Factory Team rider was rolling from the start, and extended her lead kilometre after kilometre, finishing the race in 3:36:58.
The Italian’s performance reopened the overall standings, as current leader Naima Diesner paid 9:15 at the finish in Fanano and saw her overall gap shrinking to 16:47 with the “Queen Stage” still to come. The German was held up by a technical problem, while Austrian Evelyn Sulzer lost contact with the overall lead and gave up 22:37 at the finish line; at 39:19 in the GC, her overall chances are probably over.
“Today was a really nice stage, I saw that it suited my characteristics: long but rolling, and with technical descents. My legs were going well, and my goal was to reach the top in front and then gain advantage on the downhill. Tomorrow there is a really long stage and I think that there the real difference for the GC can be done “, explained Virginia Cancellieri at the finish line.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
THE QUEEN STAGE TO SHAKE UP THE OVERALL STANDINGS
With a balanced situation in the general classification, both among men and women, the “High Mountain Queen Stage” scheduled on Thursday, September 16th, could be decisive. The 98 km and 3750 meters of elevation gain that will take the riders from Fanano to Cerreto Laghi could be the watershed between the final glory for the win or for a good placement, for those who are still in the game in the general classification. The risk of rain could make the route even more difficult and tricky.
Immediately after the start, the athletes will tackle a 17km climb to Monte Cimone, where they will enjoy the thrilling view of Pian Cavallaro. A 10km dive to Pievepelago will precede the climb to Sant’Anna Pelago, and then a long up and down in the high-altitude area of Monte Cusna. A long but very smooth and spectacular stage: possibly, the decisive one for the final outcome of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021.
The DMT Racing Team biker won the third stage in Fanano, taking Appenninica’s overall standings lead by just 26 seconds over Felix Fritzsch. Third different winner among women: in Fanano it was Evelyn Sulzer’s time
Credits: Michael Chiaretta / The Outdoor Lab
That’s an edition of duels at Appenninica MTB Stage Race. On Tuesday, September 14th, 2021, Ilias Periklis won the third stage (from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fanano) in 3:03:29, riding for 57 km and 2350 m of elevation gain. Thanks to his success, the DMT Racing Team Greek took over the leadership in the overall classification, moving in first position with and advantage of 26 seconds on German Felix Fritzsch.
In the first part of the route, the race was led by a trio with Periklis, Fritzsch and Dutchman Juul Van Loon. After the second feed zone at kilometre 35, the Greek rider took the initiative, increasing the pace and leaving the company of the two opponents. Behind, other Dutchman Bart Classens and Italian Elia Taverna reduced the gap with the chaser. At the finish line in Piazza Corsini, Ilias Periklis was 2:12 ahead of Classens, while Fritzsch was third with a gap of 2:40.
The third stage of the 2021 edition of Appenninica confirmed the early days’ sensations, with Periklis apparently having something extra compared to his rivals, but Felix Frtizsch is close and ready to challenge him in the next days. The short 26″ gap pictures a race open to the last pedal stroke, with Dutch Bart Classens solid in his third position, yet 17:40 behind the overall leader.
“It was another good day for me. I liked the route with many technical sections, but I rode safely, avoiding risks. After the second feed zone, I increased the pace aiming at conquering the leader’s jersey and I took it. I think that the battle between me and Fritzsch for the final victory will continue in the next stages, let’s take it day by day”, analysed Ilias Periklis after the finish in Fanano.
In the women’s category, the Lizzano to Fanano stage produced the third different winner out of three stages. Today’s best time was by Austrian Evelyn Sulzer, who finished in 3:57:27 ahead of Naima Diesner by 5:07 minutes. Virginia Cancellieri (Orbea Factoring Team) had a tough day, crossing the finish line with a gap of 22:13, suffering the fatigue of the first two racing days and a busy season. The Italian kept her second position in the standings with just a two-second margin on the stage winner, but the gap to leader Naima Diesner is now extended to 25:56.
It was a positive day for the German, who despite her runner-up spot in the stage consolidated her leadership. “Evelyn (Sulzer) overtook me on the first climb but knowing that the race is still long I didn’t want to force and opted to continue at my own pace. I also got a flat tyre in the next few kilometres, but that can happen. I’m happy with my performance, but for the final victory I think that Sulzer is doing well and can still be dangerous“, explained Diesner at the finish line.
A bit surprised but excited, Evelyn Sulzer still holds chances for a comeback on the top positions in the ranking. “I really didn’t expect to win because there are two riders who are much stronger than me on the downhill. We still have a lot of kilometres to go with a lot of difficulties, anything can happen, let’s see what will be going on in the general classification. The landscapes are fantastic, and the route is wonderful, I’m really happy to be here at Appenninica“, said the Austrian bikers.
Credits: Alyona Blagikh / The Outdoor Lab
NEED FOR SPEED: THE “PIPPO YEAH” SHOW
It’s time for speed and adrenaline at Appenninica, with the fourth stage scheduled on Wednesday, September 15th, 2021. The 48 km and 2150 m of elevation gain that await the athletes have been charted by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, who also designed the famous Black Snake in Val di Sole, where twenty days ago the Downhill World Championships titles were awarded.
Starting and finishing in Piazza Corsini in Fanano, the route has two climbs: the first one is the 14 km ascent to the Colombino Pass, followed by the second one to the Croce Arcana Pass. The decisive moment will probably be the long descent (18 km) with 15 single track sections, where the most capable downhill specialists will find perfect ground to showcase their qualities.
The Greek rider of DMT Racing Team won the second stage of Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021 with a decisive attack in the descent towards Lizzano in Belvedere. German Felix Fritzsch remained atop the GC, closing 43″ behind today’s winner. Naima Diesner won the stage and took over the jersey among women
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
On the slopes of Corno alle Scale, Emilia-native former skier Alberto Tomba laid the foundations of his amazing career. On the descent towards Lizzano in Belvedere, Greek Ilias Periklis used his skills to launch the decisive attack to win the second stage of the 2021 Appenninica MTB Stage Race on Monday, September 13th. The DMT Racing Team rider completed the 55km and 2540m elevation gain stage in 3:17:36, 43 seconds ahead of stage one winner Felix Fritzsch (RSG 52 Stolberg). After surprising everyone in the opening stage, the German confirmed his good form and kept the leader’s jersey in the general classification.
As expected, it was the long 33km climb on the way to Corno alle Scale that made the difference, with Periklis setting the pace and putting his rivals on the back foot. On the second ascent to Monte Cupolino, overall leader Felix Fritzsch was able to get back to him, but on the downhill the Greek, 2012 Marathon World Champion, sprinted hard to gain the 43 seconds needed to win the second stage. On the third step of today’s podium, with a 11:09 minutes delay from the winner, was Italian Elia Taverna (Asd Bike and Fund Team).
Credits: Marius Holler / The Outdoor Lab
“It was a long stage, harder than yesterday’s, and around the halfway of the race I started to raise the pace to make a selection,” said Ilias Periklis at the finish line. “On the last climb I lost time and Fritzsch came back, so I had to work even harder to shake him off and win this stage. There are five more difficult days ahead and the terrain is very technical with several fun singletrack sections, so we’ll see what the Apennines have in store for us tomorrow”.
The challenge between Periklis and Fritzsch promises to be a fierce one over the next few days as the Greek is only 2:23 minutes behind in the overall standings and there are plenty of kilometres and difficulties to change that. Finishing the Lizzano stage more than 14 minutes behind the race leader, Dutchman Bart Classens lost further ground, but still remains third in the general classification with a delay slightly under 20 minutes. “I was close to Periklis on the final climb, but I couldn’t keep up with him on the descent” Fritzsch analysed, “anyway I’m still happy to be leading the general classification“.
The women’s race was a revolution, as Virginia Cancellieri (Orbea Factoring Team) had to give up the leader’s jersey to German Naima Diesner. The Tuspo Weemde team rider completed the second stage in 4:13:48, beating the Italian by 9:57 minutes. After having narrowly lost out to Cancellieri in the opening time trial, the German jumped to the top of the standings with an advantage of 8:51minutes thanks to her performance in “Il Corno” stage, which leaves the situation still open for the next stages. Further behind was Evelyn Sulzer, who paid 19:37 to the winner at the finish in Lizzano (third position) and has a gap of more than half an hour in the general classification.
“Today was a really tough stage with a hard climb and a very technical descent, that I really enjoyed – commented Naima Diesner after the finish -. Virginia (Cancellieri) rides really well and she’s very strong, so I think there’s all the ingredients for a tough challenge between us. I’m very happy to wear the leader’s jersey today“.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
FROM LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE TO FANANO: THE ECSTASY OF GOLD
The Appenninica MTB Stage Race family will get back in action tomorrow Tuesday, September 14th: from Lizzano in Belvedere, the athletes will face a tricky stage of 50 km and 2300 meters of total elevation gain to Fanano, with the efforts starting to pile up after three tough days on saddle.
The heart of the third stage is the ascent to Monte Cimone, with 15km of long regular ascent. From the summit, there will be several ups and downs inside the Cimone Bike Park, that could be challenging and make a selection. Before the finish line in Fanano, the race will also pass through the village of Trignano, from where the brave Felice Pedroni left seeking gold in Alaska and to whom the stage called “Gold Rush” is dedicated.
German Felix Fritzsch won the opening of Appeninica MTB Stage Race, ahead of big names such as Ilias Periklis and Bart Classens. Virginia Cancellieri was the first Italian to win an Appenninica stage in the “solo” category
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021 delivered a surprising opening on Sunday, September 12th, in the individual time trial in Porretta Terme (40 km and 1600 metres of elevation gain). The best time was set by German Felix Fritzsch, the only athlete to beat the 2-hour limit with a 1:58:59 time. The rider of the RSG 52 Stolberg team surprised all the most valued opponents, confirming a special feeling with the Emilia-Romagna Apennines after the victory at the Rally di Romagna in 2018, and having finished last May’s edition in fourth place.
Two riders among the favourites, Ilias Periklis (DMT Racing Team) and Bart Classens (MTB Club Licht Verzet), completed the podium with 3:05 and 3:59 delays. respectively. After last year’s crash in the second stage, which ended his experience at Appenninica, Fritzsch came back aiming at finishing the race. Fate gave him an immediate thrill: he’s the first leader of the 2021 edition.
“I’m definitely surprised, I didn’t realise I went this fast but I’m excited for the win – admitted the German rider at the finish line -. I hope I can defend the lead, but I’ll be thinking day by day. Today’s course was very demanding, with a tough climb and several singletrack sections on the descent. Definitely a good start, let’s see what happens in the next days“.
In the women’s category, the first day marked a first time. In fact, Virginia Cancellieri became the first Italian woman ever to win a stage at Appenninica MTB in the solo formula. The Orbea Factory Team rider came to the Apennine to enjoy the race and have fun in the wonderful landscapes of the area, but she started strong and she’s going play her cards until the end.
Cancellieri covered the 40-km distance of the TT opening stage in 2:31:08, with a 1:05 advantage over German Naima Diesner (Tuspo Weemde) and 12:33 over Austrian Evelyn Sulzer. This trio likely includes the final winner, also given the last-minute forfait of ultracyclist Elena Novikova, due to physical issues.
“I really liked the course, it reminded me of my home paths in Liguria – commented the Italian after the finish line – I came here to have fun after a very busy month, to set my mind off and to just enjoy the race. I will keep riding this way even aftwer today’s success, but I can’t hide I’m very proud of the result and of being able to wear the leader jersey tomorrow”.
Credits: Juan J. Pestaña / The Outdoor Lab
FROM PORRETTA TO LIZZANO IN BELVEDERE: THE RACE SPICES UP
After the “Porretta Soul” starter, Appenninica MTB Stage Race is getting to its main courses. Starting from tomorrow Monday, September 13th, the altitude will be increasing, taking the race to wonderful landscapes on the Apennines’ crests. Main feature of the second stage, starting from 9.00 am CET from Porretta and running for 55 km (2540 m elevation gain) up to Lizzano in Belvedere – birthplace of famous journalist and writer Enzo Biagi -, is the Corno alle Scale mountain, after which the stage is named (Il Corno).
The peak of 1830 m a.s.l. will be reached after an endless 33 km climb, the longest of this 2021 edition. From the breath-taking panorama of the Crinale Massimo, the riders will get to Lago Scaffaiolo and then quickly descend to the finish line in Lizzano. After this stage it will be possible to have a better picture of the favorites in the race: the time to hide is already over.
From September 12th to 18th, Appenninica MTB Stage Race will take the best of MTB world to the Emilia-Romagna Apennines. Porretta Terme will host the great start, finale on the Bismantova Rock
Everything is set for the start of the third edition of Appenninica MTB Stage Race. Tomorrow, Sunday, September 12th, 2021, the MTB stage race on the paths of the Emilia-Romagna Apennines will take off from Porretta Terme. A route of 420 km and 16,000 metresof total elevation gain until the finale of Castelnovo ne’ Monti, Saturday, September 18th, when the Bismantova Rock will be judging the best bikers in the world. In between, there will be seven very demanding and technical fractions that will touch five stage locations (together with the one mentioned before, there will be Lizzano in Belvedere, Fanano and Cerreto Laghi).
The Organising Committee led by Beppe Salerno and Milena Bettocchi is aiming once again at a formula that combines a high competitive level with the adventurous spirit of a unique experience. Thanks also to the partnership with the Emilia-Romagna Region, Appenninica intends to become more and more a promotional event for the territory and tourism in the Apennines, communicating through sport the beauties of an area that is still little known.
The participants are of the highest level, with the athletes of the DMT Racing Team among the main favourites after last year’s double win. The Greek Ilias Periklis, 2012 Marathon World Champion will try to repeat what Hans Becking and Tiago Ferreira did in 2020. Among the 106 contestants, Milton Ramos is another man to watch out for, thanks to his knowledge of the race and the fact that he finished just outside the podium last year. The outsiders include American Gordon Wadsworth and Dutchman Bart Classens, who leads an “orange” patrol of 22 athletes.
In the women’s category, the 1993 born Evelyn Sulzer is favoured by the odds and will try to repeat the exploits of Esther Süss, who dominated in 2020. Among those who could challenge her, are Wadsworth’s American teammate Emily Hairfield and German Naima Diesner. On behalf of Italy, Virginia Cancellieri will try to reach the podium.
THE ROUTE
On Sunday, September 12th, 2021, Porretta Terme will host the Appenninica MTB Stage Race start with the “Porretta Soul” stage, a 45 km individual time trial (1,645 mt of elevation gain) dedicated to the Porretta Soul Festival. A symbol of Porretta Terme area, the Monte Cavallo climb will be immediately tackled by the riders while the stage will continue through the thick surrounding woodlands, enjoying high altitude views of the mountains and Reno valley.
The first real taste of Apennine ridge will be scheduled on Monday, September 13th with stage 2, 57 km and 2,340m of elevation gain from Porretta Terme to Lizzano in Belvedere. Named the “Corno”, the second stage’s protagonist is the Corno alle Scale mountain, with its wide and emotional views.
On Tuesday, September 14th, the Appenninica 2021 riders will move from Lizzano in Belvedere to Fanano with a very technical stage of 57km and 2,500m of elevation gain. The track goes continuously up and down through different terrains, with versatility required to be ready for any situation.
Designed by famous trail builder Pierpaolo “Pippo” Marani, the spectacular “Pippo Yeah” stage will return on Wednesday, September 15th. With a route of 50 km and 2,300m of elevation gain, one of the most appreciated stages of the 2020 edition will again show the beautiful landscapes around Fanano, entertaining the riders on the breathtaking single tack downhill to the town center.
From Fanano to Cerreto Laghi, the “High Mountain Queen Stage” scheduled on Thursday, September 16th, will be the real test bench for those who aspire to the Appenninica MTB Stage Race overall. The athletes will face 95km and 3,600m of elevation gain on a track wholly charted at high altitude, smooth and incredibly scenic.
After the great effort, on Friday, September 17th, the “Park&Roll” will move to Castelnovo ne’ Monti through a less challenging stage, 65km and 1,600m of elevation gain. After the first uphill part, the riders will go downhill through the trails of Cervarezza Bike Park from Lake Calamone, enjoying the Bismantova Rock view from afar.
On Saturday, September 18th, the epilogue is the “Purgatory” stage, dedicated to Dante Alighieri on the 700th anniversary of his death. The name of the stage says everything: to reach the “Paradise”, finishing (or even winning) the Appenninica MTB Stage Race 2021, the riders have to tame the Bismantova Rock, riding in the shadow of the mountain that inspired Dante’s Purgatory before tasting the glory at Castelnovo ne’ Monti.
After the fourth place from last year, the Honduran rider returns to Appenninica MTB Stage Race (September 12-18). “A huge challenge immersed in a wonderful setting”
Last season, Milton Ramos had won the sympathy of the Appenninica MTB Stage Race family and fans thanks to his attitude and enthusiasm. This year, the Honduran rider had circled the Italian MTB Race on the Emilia-Romagna Apennines from September 12 to 18 as a can’t-miss fixture of his season.
The 42-year-old Honduran, based in Spain, is ready to face the steep challenge of Appenninica, after the beautiful experience of the last edition. “Appenninica is a great sports event, immersed in wonderful landscapes: a perfect stage race for MTB lovers”, said Milton Ramos. – “Last year, I took part in the Appenninica for the first time in my career, and I also had the opportunity to visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello on the occasion. I was surprised by the unspoiled nature, that gave me an incredible feeling”.
Other than the landscapes and the local cuisine, there were more things standing out to the eyes of the ‘Zorro of the Desert’, like the technical level of the racecourses. “I think Appenninica could more again in the coming years, rising among the most important MTB stage races in the world”, commented Milton Ramos.
After discovering the demanding courses of Appenninica 2020, Ramos had the opportunity to see the routes of the 2021 edition thanks to Appenninica Preview, the adventurous recce ride organized by the content creators’ crew of The Outdoor Lab, joined by friends and guests from the MTB world. Ramos tested the first stages of the 420-Km course, characterized by 16.000 mt of elevation gain. “I saw a new section which I think is very attractive, in addition to the trails characterizing last year’s route”.
After grazing the podium in 2020, Milton Ramos promises to battle for more in 2021. Waiting for the Apennines verdict, one thing is certain for the Honduran biker: “Appenninica 2021 will be an amazing experience”.
