After last week’s postponement due to unfavorable weather conditions, the event is set to start tomorrow in Vezza D’Oglio (Italy) with an excellent weekend weather forecast. More than 10% of the nearly 600 participants hail from sixteen different Countries outside of Italy, reflecting the race’s growing international appeal. Among the top contenders are Swiss runner Walter Manser and Italian Andreas Reiterer
Vezza d’Oglio and the surrounding Pontedilegno-Tonale region are all set to welcome participants for the ninth edition of the Adamello Ultra Trail, whose programme kicked off with the new and exciting Adamello Vertical Kilometer event two weeks ago.
Following last week’s weather-related postponement (the event was originally scheduled for September 22-24), the enthusiasm among participants is palpable as they gear up for a weekend of perfect weather at this ultrarunning event, set amidst the historic trails of the Great War, traversing the Adamello Natural Park and the Stelvio National Park, nestled on the border between Lombardy and Trentino.
The 100 km and 170 km races, featuring elevation gains of 6,050 and 11,500 meters, respectively, will commence on Friday, September 29th, at 7:00 am and 9:00 am. Saturday afternoon, September 30th, will witness the start of the Adamello Short Trail, covering 35 km with an overall elevation gain of 2,200 meters. Both the Ultra Trail and the Trail races will commence and culminate in Vezza d’Oglio, the event’s headquarters. Conversely, the shorter-distance race will commence from nearby Monno and conclude in Vezza d’Oglio, with the first runners expected to cross the finish line in under four hours.
Despite the weather-related delay, nearly 600 participants from around the globe have chosen to embrace the challenge, underlining the event’s ever-expanding international prominence. Switzerland leads the foreign representation, closely followed by Poland and Germany, as the non-Italian field exceeds the 10% of the athlete roster.
As customary, the Adamello Ultra Trail promises a unique blend of elite sporting competition, breathtaking landscapes, and a warm, hospitable ambiance—hallmarks of the event made possible by the dedication of over 250 volunteers from the organizing group, Adamello Ultra Trail A.S.D., led by Paolo Gregorini.
In 2022, the 170-kilometer race was conquered in 26 hours, 23 minutes, and 57 seconds by German sensation Alexander Marcel Westenberger. This year, the favorites include 33-year-old Frenchman Pierre Augrit, Italians Daniele Nava and Omar Franchetti in the men’s category, and Giulia Saggin in the women’s category, holding a UTMB index of 713 and determined to bounce back after her 2021 withdrawal.
In the 100 km race, Swiss runner Walter Manser eyes an unprecedented hat-trick victory, having triumphed in 2022 with a time of 11 hours, 39 minutes, and 32 seconds. Gregorio Aiello and Nicola Poggi are poised to challenge him. Meanwhile, the women’s 100 km race showcases strong contenders in Alessandra Olivi and British runner Natalie White.
For the 35-kilometer Adamello Short Trail, a fierce battle is expected between Matteo Anselmi, a seasoned winner of numerous prestigious events this year, and Andreas Reiterer, last year’s runner-up. In the women’s category, Raffaella Rossi, from Valtellina, seeks to make history by securing a third consecutive victory after her triumphs in 2021 and 2022.
In a unique distinction Edolo, at 690 meters above sea level, serves as the race’s lowest point, while the Passo dei Contrabbandieri (Smugglers’ Pass) stands as the highest point at 2681 meters above sea level. In between, participants will navigate numerous ascents and descents that will rigorously test their physical and mental endurance.
Beyond its sporting significance, the Adamello Ultra Trail plays a vital role in preserving the trails of the Upper Valley, which are frequently traversed by cycling enthusiasts and hikers. Both public and municipal bodies support the event, including Regione Lombardia, Unione dei Comuni dell’Alta Valle Camonica, Comunità Montana di Valle Camonica, and the Consorzio Pontedilegno-Tonale, along with various local associations. To ensure utmost safety, the event is supported by Alpine Rescue, Civil Defense, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical Service.
The event also enjoys the generous support of several notable sponsors, including the main partner, Mico Sport, as well as renowned brands such as Edison and Scarpa, and technical sponsors Ferrino, Df Sport Specialist, Salice, and numerous local businesses that have played a pivotal role in the event’s continued growth.
Safety remains paramount, with assistance provided by Alpine Rescue, Civil Protection, Fire Brigade, and Amici del 118, while live tracking is assured through the SeteTrack GPS service.
Event Schedule
- Thursday, September 28, 8:00 pm: Opening ceremony and technical briefing in Vezza d’Oglio (Piazza IV Luglio).
- Friday, September 29, 7:00 am: Start of Adamello Trail 100 km (“Adamello” Events Center).
- Friday, September 29, 9:00 am: Start of Adamello Ultra Trail 170 km (“Adamello” Events Center).
- Saturday, September 30, 2:00 pm: Start of Adamello Short Trail (Piazza IV Novembre, Monno).
- Saturday, September 30, 4:30 pm: 100 km awards ceremony (“Adamello” Events Center).
- Saturday, September 30, 8:30 pm: 35 km awards ceremony (“Adamello” Events Center).
- Sunday, October 1, 2:00 pm: 170 km awards ceremony (“Adamello” Events Center).
