Luserna – the Italian Village Where They Speak Cimbrian
On the map, the village is called Luserna. Locals, however, call it Lusérn ...
A true invasion of runners, with the record number of finishers seriously at risk. These are the prospects for the third edition of the Drago Vaia Trail, which will be held on Sunday in Gionghi di Lavarone (TN) organized by Uisp Vicenza. Born as a way to raise funds for the reconstruction of the large wooden sculpture, lost due to a fire, the event in 2023 was such a success that the organizers decided to make it an annual appointment, receiving wide approval, especially when the artistic work by Matalar was rebuilt even larger (it is the most voluminous and heaviest wooden sculpture in the world) using the remains of the old dragon. The organizers expect at least 450 athletes at the start, but this may be an underestimate considering the registrations received in the last week, which are still being finalized. There are two routes to choose from: the main one of 20 km with 500 meters of elevation gain or the 12 km with 310 meters. Also on the program is the 5 km route with 190 meters, which will be non-competitive or rather a walk for families. A wide menu capable of involving every type of runner, also because these are not very demanding routes, ideal for the end of the season. Among those already registered stands out Mauro Rasom, second last year in the 20 km who openly aims for victory but will have to contend with Fabio Maniotti, the 2023 winner who set the race record in 1h20’35”. The female record is instead held by Cinzia Presti, 1h36’13” also in 2023. In the 12 km race returns the runner-up of the inaugural edition, Andrea Cesaro. The start for all races is from Gionghi di Lavarone at 10:00 am. At 12:00 pm the Pasta Party for all attendees will begin, including the awards ceremony for the first 3 overall and category winners of each of the three courses. It is also possible to register on the morning of the race from 7:30 to 9:00. A special thanks to those who support Uisp Vicenza in organizing the event, particularly the Municipal Administration of Lavarone and APT Alpe Cimbra for their collaboration.
