A Weekend for Runners in Florence

Runners will be taking on the historical streets of Florence for a full weekend of activities from Friday, March 2 to Sunday, March 4 including the Urban Trail and the brand new Maratona Mentana.

When it comes to picturesque runs, it’s tough to beat the 13km which provides participants with a truly unique experience as they run past historical landmarks such as, San Miniato, Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizi Gallery Lodge, Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti, and the Boboli Gardens – all at night! The 13 km (8.08 mi) race will take place on March 2 at Piazzale Michelangelo, beginning at 9 pm. The registration cost is €27 and is open until March 1.

Not a runner but still want to experience the beauty of city after dark? Sign up for the 10 km (6.2 mi) Nordic walk starting at Piazzale Michelangelo at 9:05 pm. Headlamps are required for all participants of the 13km and 10km events. The event also offers a 42km, 80km, Ultra Challenge, and Super Challenge for those looking for a longer run on March 3.

To register (through March 1) and more information visit the event’s website.

Another choice for runners is the first ever Maratona Mentana di Firenze (Mentana Marathon of Florence) on Sunday March 4, in honor of the subsequent “marathon” coverage of Italian elections. This 5 km (3.1mi) race is a tribute to the Italian newscaster, Enrico Mentana, who is famous for his all night coverage of important events. The race will begin at 6 pm at Cascine Park in the Piazzale Kennedy area, and will be followed by dinner at Circolo del Torrino di Santa Rosa. The registration for the race is €10 and €20 for the dinner.

To read more in Italian, visit Florence’s La Repubblica news site.  (olivia pugsley)