One established tradition at UWC Adriatic is the annual Gran Fondo Val Casies. Last Sunday, February 19th, was the 34th edition of the Val Casies ski-marathon, 30 or 42 km, with representatives from 30 countries, including far away places like Malaysia, Peru, United States and Nepal. The College’s first participation in this event was in 1985; during subsequent years the College has been awarded prizes for presenting the largest group, and for the person originating from the country farthest away from Val Casies.
The international Gran Fondo Val Casies has become a well-known top ski-marathon, offering in addition the JUST FOR FUN option, without timings or rankings. The aim is for all, young and old, healthy and also disabled persons, to participate.
The cross-country ski activity operates during the winter season at weekends, assuming suitable snow conditions. More important than level of skill, is personal commitment and enthusiasm. This year the students went for three sessions to Arena Paruzzi and for one to Prato Carnico to practice their skiing before participating in the ski marathon.
The group was led by Anne Brearley, Mark Sylvester and Dario Boscarolli. Photographs by Maria Fernanda Silva and Alekhya Dossa.
