ePodismo online | U.S. edition | Issue 26 | July 2016
The loop inside the park in Via Dragoni, from the entrance in Via Pratella and back is 1230 meters long. It is a course entirely paved.
ASICS HYPERTRI 2 - The HyperTri, ASICS response to the needs of triathlon racing, is a close relative of the Gel HyperSpeed. Round 2 of the HyperTri maintains its triathlon-specific features while improving others. The graphics have changed a bit, and the closed mesh upper is a stretchier mesh with no-sew overlays replacing the traditional toe construction. Sockless wear is no problem, and the included stretch laces make for speedy transitions, though a traditional lacing option is also available. The midsole continues with its bouncy, cushioned feel but additional drainage ports have been added (discretely), so they are there if required. The outersole is similar to its debut version, but with a touch more forefoot coverage. Even so, the shoe nets out at a few fractions of an ounce lighter. The HyperTri 2's fit, ride, and versatility make it an excellent choice for one event - especially if it is the third one in a series.
Testers: "Snug but forgiving fit, with a smooth, comfortable feel against the foot. Drainage works great (even improved from Round 1). Plenty of cushioning for me to set a best time for the half marathon."
Sizes: Men 6-13, 14; Women 5-12
Weight: 6.6 oz. (men's size 11); 5.4 oz. (women's size 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Fit: snug heel, close but stretchy forefoot
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted
Range: efficient runners (up to 30K, possibly a marathon); heavy strikers (between 10K and 25K)
Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics
JULY 3 - Introduced by the Roman legions during the expansion of the empire into the countries of the European continent, the "gnocchi" dumplings have been around for the past 2000 years. The Corri sul Nera in San Liberato di Narni, near Terni, is a 9k running event held within the local gnocchi festival. Not only runners will enjoy a panoramic course along the Nera river natural environment, but after crossing the finish line they will also be able to taste several gnocchi-based specialties. www.asddelnera.it |
JULY 10 - The second Sunday of July in Busana, in the Reggio Emilia mountains, the Ecomaratona del Ventasso features four different distances (42k / 30k / 18k / 12k) on the trails surrounding Mount Ventasso, from the top of which the eye can embrace the whole Reggiano Appennine, the Parmesan Appennine, and the ridge that separates this area from Tuscany. The courses alternate between chesnut woods, beeches, and moorland passing by villages made of stone, small chapels hidden in the woods, fresh springs, and a lake filled with turquoise water. www.ecomaratonadelventasso.it |
JULY 24 - Only 2k in lenght, the Vertical Km in Pieve di Livinallongo, near Belluno, is an uphill point-to-point event reaching the top of Col di Lana. The course features stunning views while paying homage to the tragic history these mountains witnessed during World War I. Dubbed "Col di Sangue" ("Blood Mountain"), the area was the scene of heavy fighting between Austria and Italy. It is now a memorial to the War in the Dolomites, and a chapel stands on the summit, along with the remains of a barracks and trenches. There is also a small war museum. www.v-km.it |