ENTRIES CLOSED FOR THE 2011 MARCIALONGA

The 2011 Marcialonga is officially ‘sold out’. No more bibs available to the 38th edition of the cross country ski marathon along the Fiemme and Fassa valleys, in Trentino region, scheduled on Sunday January 30^th, 2011.

The entry limit of 6.500 participants has been  reached today. ‘We are more than happy’, Marcialonga general manager Gloria Trettel claimed, ‘and next January we will welcome in the best way all the skiers, families and friends who booked their places in our race.’ ‘Marcialonga has become an unmissable event for anyone involved in the world of Nordic sports’, Trettel added, ‘especially for Norwegians and Swedes, who all love Marcialonga more and more with each passing year.’

Having a look at the list of entries for the 2011 race, the number of skiers from Norway plus those from Sweden count up to more than half of the total registered skiers, with around 2500 Vikings who next January will colonise the Italian valleys at the foot of Dolomites. ‘Norwegians take part in our race for different reasons’, continued Trettel. ‘First of all, the landscape through which Marcialonga is set represents something absolutely unique, compared to the settings in Northern Europe. In addition, the warmth and hospitality, plus good food and wine offered by our people in hotels, restaurants and resorts, are simply amazing. I’m not being overly proud of my valley, but these are the bullet points skiers themselves consider as essential in their Marcialonga.’

Throughout history – the first Marcialonga took place in 1971 – people from all over the world have taken part to the race, and skiers from 30 countries will be gathering at the start in Moena next January as well.

‘Both Fiemme and Fassa valleys are worldwide renowned for their alpine ski resorts’, concluded Trettel, ‘and this is another important aspect not to be underestimated. Cross country ski lovers and athletes from Northern Europe often decide to book a so-called long week-end or even an entire week to enjoy both the Marcialonga days and the wonderful ski areas with friends and families.’

Next year’s Marcialonga is part of both the prestigious Worldloppet circuit and the FIS Marathon Cup, and forms the Combined Event ‘Punto3 Craft’ together with 2011 Marcialonga Cycling (May) and Marcialonga Running (September).

Info: www.marcialonga.it