The XTERRA European Trail Run Championship is set to debut on September 9, 2023, in Molveno, Italy against the backdrop of the Brenta Dolomites, a UNESCO Heritage site in the northern Italian Alps. The championship will feature two primary races: a half-marathon spanning 21 kilometres and a full marathon covering 45 kilometres. A total of €5,200 in prize money will be awarded, along with continental titles in various age group categories ranging from 15-19 to 80+. Runners will also have the opportunity to earn ITRA points and secure limited qualifying spots for the 2024 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship.

As a key fixture on the XTERRA Trail Run World Series calendar, the XTERRA European Trail Run Championship is expected to draw top-tier runners from across the European Union and beyond. There are no qualifying requirements for participation in these events.

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“It is an honour for myself and my colleagues, who are all trail runners themselves, to host the 2023 XTERRA European Trail Run Championship,” said Alessandro Bettega, President of Molveno Holiday. “It is wonderful to be part of XTERRA and to make history as the first to crown XTERRA European Trail Run Champions.”

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Participants will be immersed in nature, away from urban surroundings, with dedicated volunteers and well-placed refreshment stations. The course commences at Lake Molveno, passing through Malga Andalo, and skirting peaks like Cima Brenta, Crozzon di Brenta, Cima Tosa, and Campanile Basso, among others with a 1,250m elevation gain. It offers views of the Brenta Dolomites, the Selvata refuge, the Croz dell’Altissimo, and the Montanara before concluding at the lake. Additionally, the challenging 64K Ultra Trail Run race returns, featuring Europe's top trail runners on technical and demanding trails.

Complementing the race action is a family-friendly festival, featuring live music, DJ sets, a pasta party, and an awards ceremony on the shores of Lake Molveno, recognized as the ‘Most Beautiful Lake in Italy’ seven times by Legambiente and the Italian Touring Club. 

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On Friday, September 8th, at 18:15, renowned trail runner Davide Grazielli and the Destination Unknown team will delve into the "Ten Commandments of the Thoughtful Runner," offering insights into both the physical and mental aspects of preparing for a demanding race like the Dolomiti di Brenta Trail, while also sharing compelling stories and emotions that define this sport.

This event continues to exceed expectations with each edition selling out since its inception. This year is no exception, and is sold out yet again. This location will also serve as the venue for the XTERRA World Championship Off-Road Triathlon on September 23, 2023.

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The XTERRA Trail Run World Series, established this year, aims to unite the global XTERRA trail running community in an inclusive and accessible series. Unlike elite-focused competitions, this circuit emphasizes challenge, adventure, and community, welcoming runners of all levels to explore the world's most scenic trails while fostering a close-knit running community.

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The XTERRA European Trail Run Championship marks the conclusion of the 2023 XTERRA Trail Run World Series continental majors. The 2023 XTERRA Trail Run World Championship is scheduled for October 1, 2023, at Sugarloaf Resort in Maine, USA.

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For more information, please visit the XTERRA European Trail Run Championship event page or learn more about the series on the XTERRA Trail Run World Series page.