One of the best reasons to run is to explore
A race abroad is a fantastic way to feel part of the local atmosphere and discover routes you would never find alone.
One of the best reasons to run is to explore. A race abroad is a fantastic way to feel part of the local atmosphere and discover routes you would never find alone.
Using RunningInItaly.com (thank you!), I found the "Trofeo Bruno Bertoletti" 12k while I was visiting Florence. It was billed as a "manifestazione podistica non competitiva", which my Duolingo Italian correctly identified as a "fun run".
The race began at Piazzale Michelangelo, overlooking Florence's Renaissance skyline.
The start was very low key! A hundred stretching runners gathered at the roadside; the lead motorbike set off; and without further ado a whistle blew! Traffic management was definitely relaxed as we weaved through cars for the first mile.
I started with my teenage children, who headed off on their 5k route at a marshal ("Sinistra?"), although they somehow lost the route and finished cheerful but a little later than expected!
My route turned along gorgeous edge-of-town walled lanes, past farmhouses and olive groves. Late October meant perfect running conditions, with blue skies and views of endless Tuscan hills.
Other runners were very friendly. And the refreshments table at the end was one of the most generous I have seen!
Chris Pyle
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