By Teemu Virtanen
The Visma Ski Classics Season IX offered once again some suspenseful action, breathtakingly beautiful sceneries and well-organized events. There were 12 races in Central and Northern Europe this season, and they all had their own characteristics and globally known landmarks.
They range from picturesque mountains to untouched wildernesses and famous national parks with unspoiled nature. Each race has something unique that defines them; a few have a legendary history behind them, the others are known for their special atmosphere, some can boast to have the most famous climbs while some can claim to be the longest races in the tour. Visma Ski Classics pro teams tend to appreciate the fact that there are different courses with their own look and feel, and it is always important to cater for both elite and amateur skiers.
Every year, a vote is cast to identify the event that the Visma Ski Classics participants like the most. The “Best Event of the Year” award was granted to an event that is generally considered as one the best in the world with its unique atmosphere and with the course that goes through idyllic villages where cheering spectators welcome each participant. Italy’s pride and joy Marcialonga, the long march, was selected as the best event of the second time in a row.
“It is really very important for the whole community to win this award,” says Davide Stoffie, the CEO of Marcialonga. “We are very proud of this achievement, and it means that our volunteers have done a good job and we didn’t encounter any problems. A lot of people stop me for a chat and express how happy they are about this recognition. We can now show our partners and sponsors that we are really the best race for the second time. The trophy at our office reminds us of the hard work we have put into making this happen.”
Next year will be Marcialonga’s 47th edition, and the organizers are prepared to up the ante and offer an even better experience to its participants and the viewers around the world watching the race on TV.
“We don’t have to change a lot or invent something new, but we can improve many small things,” Stoffie continues. “We will have new snow farming positions on the course, which will improve the artificial snow making. We are also working with the hotels in the area so that everyone coming here can feel very welcome. We can’t rest on our laurels even if we are the winners again because there’s always a lot of work to do and we can always aim higher.”
Marcialonga has been a crucial part of Visma Ski Classics since the beginning in the season of 2010/11. The 47th edition will be held on January 26, 2020. Marcialonga also has running and cycling events in the summer.
