The 2023 program of Adamello Ultra Trail has been expanded to offer an even more comprehensive experience In addition to the three main race distances (170 km, 100 km, and 35 km) scheduled for the weekend of September 22nd-24th, the Organizing Committee has enriched the event by introducinga Vertical race which includes both competitive and non-competitive categories. Taking place on Sunday, September 17th, the Vertical AVK complements the traditional Adamello Trail Junior, creating a diverse range of side events.
The official presentation of the 2023 Adamello Ultra Trail took place on Friday, June 30th, at Torre Federici in Vezza d’Oglio (Brescia), the town where athletes will gather in late September to start their adventure on the paths of the Great War. The official presentation of the 2023 Adamello Ultra Trail took place on Friday, June 30th, at Torre Federici in Vezza d’Oglio (Brescia), the town where athletes will gather in late September to start their adventure on the paths of the Great War. The event was attended by Vione’s Mayor and President of the Unione dei Comuni dell’Alta Valle Camonica Mauro Testini, the Sport Councillor of the Comunità Montana di Valle Camonica Massimo Maugeri, the Mayor of Vezza d’Oglio Diego Occhi, Angelica Delpero from the marketing and communication office of the Pontedilegno-Tonale Consortium, the Director of the Stelvio National Park Franco Claretti, the International Sales Director of MICO Sport, Giovanni Setti, the Territorial Power Asset Manager of Edison, Mattia Seira, and the White War Museum Director, Walter Belotti.
The aim of A.S.D. Adamello Ultra Trail, led by Paolo Gregorini, is to transform the event into a true celebration that involves the entire Pontedilegno-Tonale area, which serves as the backdrop for all the activities. This area encompasses eight municipalities across the provinces of Brescia and Trento, namely Edolo, Incudine, Monno, Ponte di Legno, Temù, Vezza d’Oglio, Vione (in Alta Val Camonica, Lombardy), and Vermiglio (Alta Val di Sole, Trentino). These territories boast a rich history, tourism potential, and a strong sporting heritage.
The historical significance of the region lies in the fact that it was the site of clashes between the Italian Kingdom and the Austro-Hungarian Empire from 1915 to 1918, known as the White War. This unique aspect makes the Adamello Ultra Trail a standout event on the international stage. The trails still bear witness to the defensive fortresses, trenches, and mule-tracks used during that period. Notably, the iconic Bocchetta di Val Massa entrenchment stands out, guiding athletes to an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level. Temù and Vermiglio, two of the municipalities involved, are home to dedicated museums that offer insights into this Alpine conflict.
From a tourism perspective, the Adamello Ultra Trail area provides opportunities year-round, with the breathtaking landscapes of the Adamello Nature Park and the Stelvio National Park. Visitors can also savor the region’s delicious local cuisine and wines. The area is ideal for both relaxation and active pursuits, including trekking and hiking in nature.
In terms of sports, the Pontedilegno-Tonale ski area is a renowned destination for winter disciplines, offering over 40 ski slopes and nearly 30 ski lifts. In the summer, the area comes alive with activities such as mountain biking in the Bike Park, climbing, rafting, and high-altitude excursions. And in September, the focus shifts to the Adamello Ultra Trail.
A WEEK PACKED WITH EVENTS
The Adamello Series, a collection of side events, makes the Adamello Ultra Trail much more than just a race weekend. The festivities kick off on Sunday, September 17th, with the inaugural Adamello Vertical Kilometer (AVK)
The Vertical is 3.9 km long and has 1,000 m of elevation gain: From the 1,250 m asl of Piazza Vittoria, in the heart of Vione (Brescia), it reaches Tor dei Pagà, the highest archaeological site in Europe, located at 2,250 m asl. A place that still holds a few secrets about its origins, but which is preparing to welcome fans and athletes for the first time. The start is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. with the Vertical Slow, the non-competitive version, while at 9:00 a.m. it will be time for the women’s race, followed at 9:20 a.m. by the men’s one. Maximum time limits are 2 hours 30 minutes, 2 hours 15 minutes and 2 hours, respectively. After walking back to the start in Vione, there will be a pasta party, included in the registration as well as the race package. A total of 100 bibs are available, with the price of 25.00 euros for registration by September 10, which becomes 35.00 in the last week.
After AVK, the stage is set for Adamello Trail Junior in Vione, where young participants are introduced to the world of mountain running. These events create a joyful atmosphere for the entire family. On Thursday, September 21st, (Via del Piano, 1), “P3rsonal – Movimento e Sport”, partner di Adamello Ultra Trail per quanto riguarda allenamento e preparazione fisica, metterà a disposizione sessioni di allenamento dedicate a bambini e adolescenti, proprio in vista della sfida di Adamello Trail Junior.
from 2:00 p.m., the Centro Eventi in Vezza d’Oglio becomes the main hub for the Adamello Ultra Trail hosting all the necessary preparations for the three distances that athletes will tackle over the weekend. The 100 km race begins at 7:00 a.m. on Friday September 22nd, followed by the 170 km race at 9:00 a.m. The 35 km race starts on Saturday, September 23rd, at 2:00 p.m. from Monno.The finish lines and awards ceremonies for all races will also take place at the Centro Eventi in Vezza d’Oglio
Adamello Ultra Trail’s three challenges contribute to the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB Index Race), awarding scores of 100M for the Ultra distance, 100K for the Medium distance, and 20K for the Short distance. Additionally, participants can earn points for theInternational Trail Running Association (ITRA Index Race) circuit: 6, 6, 5, and 2 points for theUltra, Medium, and Short distances, respectively These races also serve as qualifiers for the new ITRA Italian National Leaguewhich aims to promote trail running within national borders and reduce environmental impact by limiting travel. To qualify for this special classification, athletes must accumulate ITRA points in at least three races in the same country, and the winners will be announced in January 2024.
The reigning champions across the three distances are Alexander Westenberger from Germany (26 hours, 23 minutes, and 57 seconds) and Alessandra Olivi from Italy (34 hours, 59 minutes, and 36 seconds) for the long distance, Walter Manser from Switzerland (11 hours, 39 minutes, and 32 seconds) and Francesca Crippa from Italy (15 hours, 31 minutes, and 4 seconds) for the medium distance, and Mirko Marchi (3 hours, 35 minutes, and 22 seconds) and Raffaella Rossi (4 hours, 17 minutes, and 11 seconds) from Italy for the short distance, with both Manser and Rossi having secured two consecutive wins.
Early Bird registration at the same price as the previous year closed on Friday, June 30th. Starting on Saturday, July 1st, the entry fees for each of the three distances will increase by 20.00 euros. The final registration deadline is set for September 10th, with fees of 200.00 euros for the 170 km race, 110.00 euros for the 100 km race, and 60.00 euros for the 35 km race.
SPONSOR AND TERRITORIAL PARTNERS
MICO Sport, an Italian technical sportswear brand with a strong connection to the region of Brescia, has been the main sponsor of the Adamello Ultra Trail for six years Sharing a passion for the mountains, excellence, and Made in Italy culture, MICO Sport continues its partnership with the event. The panel of Gold Sponsors includes the strategic support of the Pontedilegno-Tonale Consortium, as well as the quality brands of SCARPA footwear and Edison, a leader in the energy sector.
Among the Silver Sponsors, Salice, an Italian brand specializing in sports goggles and glasses, brings its strong Made in Italy identity to the event. This year, the partnership with Ferrino is focused on promoting trail running for women. New entries as Event Sponsors include Ethic Sport and Lazzaroni Biscotti.
The event receives vital support from the Lombardy Region, along with the Unione dei Comuni dell’Alta Valle Camonica and the Comunità Montana di Valle Camonica. These partnerships highlight the event’s commitment to tourism and its deep connection with the region, which strengthens year after year.
Contributions from local associations, such as the Red Cross, Fire Brigades, and Alpine Rescue, ensure the smooth running of the event and enhance participant safety.
FULL PROGRAM FOR THE WEEK (All times CEST)
– Sunday, September 17th (8:45 a.m., Vione): Adamello Vertical Slow;
– Sunday, September 17th (9:00 a.m., Vione): Adamello Vertical Kilometer
– Sunday, September 17th (2:00 p.m., Vione): Adamello Trail Junior
– Thursday, September 21st (2:00 p.m., Vezza d’Oglio): #AUT race office opening
– Friday, September 22nd (9:00 a.m., Vezza d’Oglio): Adamello Ultra Trail 170 km
– Friday, September 22nd (9:00 a.m., Vezza d’Oglio): Adamello Ultra Trail 170 km
– Saturday, September 23rd (2:00 p.m., Monno): Adamello Short Trail 35 km
– Saturday, September 23rd (4:00 p.m., Vezza d’Oglio): Adamello Trail 100 km awards ceremony
– Sunday, September 24th (1:00 p.m., Vezza d’Oglio): Adamello Ultra Trail 170 km and Adamello Short Trail 35 km awards ceremonies
