Maratona delle Dolomiti

The Maratona delle Dolomiti is a granfondo cycling race held in the Dolomites, spanning Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto, typically on the first Sunday of July. It is Italy’s largest event of its kind, with participation limited to 8,000 cyclists. Many amateur participants require a lottery entry unless they qualify for direct registration. The race originated in 1987 with 166 participants covering 175 kilometers across seven alpine passes; its primary distance later standardized to 138 kilometers after initial events featured longer routes. The core of the route involves the Sella Ronda, followed by a demanding series of ascents over Campolongo, Pordoi, Sella, Gardena, Campolongo once more, Giau, and Falzarego, before cyclists descend to La Villa and ascend again to Corvara. Participants seeking a shorter route can opt for the 106 km mediofondo or the 55 km Sella Ronda circuit. Emanuele Negrini holds the race record with five victories and achieved the fastest winning average speed at 32.9 km/h. Previous champions include former professionals like Marzio Bruseghin and Alessandro Paganessi.