Date: January 30, 2022

Place: Trentino, Italy

Distance: 70 km Classic technique

Active years: 48

Record number of participants: 7,951

Highest peak and total climb: 1453 m/1265 m

Number of VSC sprints/climbing points: two sprints at 18 km in Canazei and at 46 km in Predazzo, two climbs at 32 km, L’Infinita, and at 70 km, Cascata Hill

Start times: Men 8:00 CET, women 8:05 CET

Website: https://www.marcialonga.it

Marcialonga in Italy has twice been awarded as the “Best Event of the Year” in Visma Ski Classics. The race was established in 1971 when some innovative Italians decided to copy the world-famous Vasaloppet and create their own version of the legend. Last year’s event was the 50^th anniversary edition, and this “long march” has gained a legendary status over the years.

Many skiers consider Marcialonga the greatest long distance ski event in the world due to its magical atmosphere, the well-oiled organization, and the beautiful surroundings that the course can offer. Thousands of participants come from all over the world to enjoy the perks of Marcialonga. 

Additionally, the event organizers have effective snow farming facilities ensuring that the race can be held even if there is no natural snow on the ground. It starts in Moena, Val di Fassa, and finishes on the main street of Cavalese, Val di Fiemme, passing through 13 villages and thousands of cheering spectators. The course passes the prominent ski jumps in Predazzo and goes through the town center before reaching the famous Nordic ski arena in Tesero, which serves as the scene for the annual Tour de Ski and has been the host location for three FIS Nordic Ski World Championships in 1991, 2003 and 2013. 

The final climb, Cascata Hill, is probably one of the most famous landmarks in the history of long distance skiing. The Cascata hill has a special Climb check point where the points are calculated according to fastest time up the hill instead of the first skier reaching the top as in regular climb check points.

The finish of the race is really a thrilling sight to see since the skiers approach the town center surrounded by a large crowd of cheering spectators. Cavalese has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, cafés and places to visit, and over the race weekend a visitor can easily detect an international vibe that leaves no one disappointed.

Season XI top three:

Men

1. Emil Persson, Lager 157 Ski Team, 3:11:09.7

2. Tord Asle Gjerdalen, Team XPND Fuel of Norway, 3:11:10.0

3. Ermil Vokuev, Russian Winter Team, 3:11:12.4

Women

1. Lina Korsgren, Team Ramudden, 3:27:13.7

2. Emilie Fleten, Team Koteng, 3:27:23.3

3. Ida Dahl, Team Ramudden, 3:27:59.2