Gran Sasso Trail attracts record 500 athletes in Pietracamela

The Gran Sasso Trail event held in Pietracamela saw record participation, with 500 athletes competing in the trail running races. This figure represents a doubling of the participants compared to the inaugural 2025 edition, with the event reaching sold-out status ten days before the start.

Participants competed across three different distances: 11 km, 21 km, and a flagship 40 km race. The 40 km course featured a 3,000-meter positive elevation gain and extended to the L'Aquila side of the Gran Sasso massif.

The event organizers emphasized environmental respect and the preservation of the mountain landscape, positioning the trails and scenery as integral components of the competition rather than mere backdrops. The weekend also drew significant numbers of families and spectators to the village of Pietracamela.