ePodismo online | U.S. edition | Issue 73 | June 2020
We are almost there, but not quite. Running events in Italy continue to be cancelled for the rest of the year, but a few organizers are now embracing the new post-pandemic requirements - online only registration, staggered starts, no refreshments along the course, no award ceremony - to offer their event while ensuring social distancing.
One of the most important Italian running event, traditionally held in the month of July, the "Giro podistico internazionale di Castelbuono" has been instead postponed, most likely to September. On Sunday, July 26, the historic event would have celebrated its 95th edition. This competition is the oldest road race in Europe as it was held the first time back in 1912.
The organizers - the Gruppo Atletico Polisportivo Castelbuonese - were hoping to be able to regularly held the event on the traditional date, the day celebrating Saint Anna, the patroness of the Sicilian village of Castelbuono, but the current limitations still in place made them choose for a later date instead. "Considering the particular and historical moment" - said Antonio Castiglia, president of the organizing committee - "we have decided, in agreement with the municipal administration, to postpone the appointment rather than cancelling it, to give a strong signal of continuity for an historic event that is rooted in the community".
To our subscribers and to those who read "ePodismo USA" online, our best wishes for everything to go back to normal soon.
Indro Neri
LA SPORTIVA KAPTIVA - La Sportiva has a history of shoes along the whole trail running continuum, but frequently on the faster end of the range. The Kaptiva follows in the speedy tradition, with a focus on traction, protection, and speed. The upper is a multi-part design, minimesh over the toes with a closed rip-stop fabric reaching to the heel, both supported by welded overlays. The tongue is lightly but sufficiently padded and is gusseted, holding the foot securely while keeping the trail debris out, and the textured heel lining snugs and completes the performance fit. The midsole is dual density, but with the entire heel a firm and responsive layer, while the three-quarter length top layer is a softer density. Together they offer a comfortable ride on hard and packed surfaces, while also responding well to the uneven and softer trails thanks to the sandwich created by the outersole and the Strobel board. The outersole features a thin profile, triangular lugs strategically placed for traction, with slots through the sole for flexibility in the forefoot and heel. The combination of well designed and executed components makes the Kaptiva a versatile and effective choice for a wide variety of trail running adventures. New shoe.
Testers: "Great traction! Fits like a glove and keeps debris out. Smooth on the trail, but can get you to the trail as well. I was impressed with its versatility."
Sizes: Men 6-14; Women 5.5–12
Weight: 10.8 oz. (men's size 11); 8.7 oz. (women's size 8)
Shape: semi-curved
Construction: Strobel slip-lasted
Geometry: Full contact