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.
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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.
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Other runners were very friendly. And the refreshments table at the end was one of the most generous I have seen!
Chris Pyle
Read more stories about running in Italy
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