Last weekend, Fiorino Mud brought its adventurous spirit to the stunning Tuscan hills, starting and finishing at the picturesque Hu Norcenni Girasole village. It also took us 4-5 days to fully process the event because it was such a fantastic weekend, filled with epic challenges, dirt roads, and breathtaking views, where gravel cycling triumphed over three different distances.
Fiorino Mud 400 – Saturday morning at 7:00, the event kicked off in great style with the challenge of the Fiorino Mud 400 km: the epic adventure that led participants through medieval villages and natural landscapes to the Puntala Camp & Resort, and then back to the base camp at Hu Norcenni Girasole village. A demanding route, with about 8000 meters of real elevation gain, where body and mind had to find the perfect balance, but the riders’ enthusiasm remained high, fueled by unforgettable scenery and the sense of freedom that only gravel can offer. The event saw the first four heroes reach the finish line at Figline Valdarno without ever sleeping, setting a new record for the Fiorino Mud after the 2023 feat, when the first two athletes, Fabio Crosara and Filippo Borgarelli, arrived in Florence after exactly 24 hours. This year, another duo reached the finish line after 26 hours and 30 minutes. The heroes of 2024 were Andrea Sannino, in his fourth participation, and Matteo Marchetto, who from the start led the pack and agreed to continue riding non-stop until they crossed the finish line.
Completing the “podium” was a great Stefano Pinato, riding solo for almost all 400 km and finishing in 28 hours. Fourth, in 29 hours, was the florentine Filippo Bertelli, after a steady and consistent effort.
After 35 hours, Alessio Izzi, Luca Caporali, and Francesco Scalora completed their journey, brilliantly supporting each other and managing to finish their challenge. After 39 hours, Paolo Romoli also crossed the finish line, stoic in facing his adventure with the true spirit of a warrior.
Once again, this year the 400 km proved to be a challenging and highly selective 360° gravel experience, with only 50% of the starters managing to finish within 40 hours, highlighting the difficulty of the route and the skill level of those who completed it.
Fiorino Mud 70 – On Saturday, after the start of the 400 km race, it was time for the 70 km event, with 80 riders ready to challenge themselves on the Strava segment. The gravel riders faced a mix of adrenaline and strategy, with each pedal stroke aimed at achieving the best time on selected sections, delivering an exciting and heartfelt competition. The fastest participants managed to set truly incredible times. However, in the end, it wasn’t just about performance: the smile on the faces of those crossing the finish line told a story of fun and satisfaction. Honored by the participation of Giulio and Guido Pasquini, two true fighters in life. A super family that teaches us all so much!
Fiorino Mud 100 – Sunday morning marked the turn of the 100 km race, with 85 participants at the start. Here too, the competition on the Strava segment was fierce, with the presence of renowned names who gave their all to stand out. The course wound its way through challenging climbs and breathtaking descents, a perfect mix of technique and endurance that tested even the most experienced riders. The warm embrace of the September sun made it all the more epic, but the happy faces at the finish line spoke of an experience lived with passion and gratitude.
The entire weekend was a celebration of sport, nature, and community. Participants returned home not only with a new experience under their belt or a Strava time, but above all with precious memories and the awareness of having taken part in something special. With breathtaking and adrenaline-filled routes and a unique atmosphere, the Fiorino Mud left its mark and has already earned a special place in the hearts of those who had the courage to face it.
Thanks to all the athletes and companies that supported us again this year: Hu Norcenni Girasole village, PuntAla Camp & Resort, Tommasini, Pissei, Trek Store Firenze, Z-Adventure, Zo Working, and Radio Toscana.
