12th
July 1987 - A unique route of 175 Km, with no fewer than seven
Dolomite passes to cross; 166 fearless spirits of the bicycle that with
great courage and fair play struggle to reach the coveted finishing-line:
this was how the fascinating adventure of the Maratona dles Dolomites
began, attracting year after year an increasing number of fans, to become
one of the most important amateur cyclist events in the whole of Europe.
Conceived as part of the tenth anniversary celebrations of the Alta
Badia-Raiffeisen Cycling Club, its organisers certainly never dreamt
that they had created an event which in such a short period of time
would have become one of the most important annual events in the Alta
Badia valley, attracting thousands of fans, many of whom enthusiastically
take part every year.
The great success of the Maratona dles Dolomites is certainly based
on the splendid setting of the Dolomites, the striking routes that follow
legendary runs where great champions have written a rich and glorious
page in the history of cycling.
The great organisational effort that involves a whole community with
the specific aim of presenting a high level and smoothly organised competition
capable of coordinating such a high number of competitors, must not
be forgotten. Seven thousan cyclist have taken parte in recent years,
divided into the various categories and routes offered. One of the reasons
for the great satisfaction that encourages us to continue despite all
the difficulties, is the enthusiasm and friendship that we find in all
the contestants, who every year create not only a competition but a
celebration of sport, where it is especially the desire to prove oneself
against the magnificent surrounding scenery that remains alive.
Enjoy yourselves!
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