Marathon runners head for Turin

Turin, the principal city of Piedmont, was renovated and modernized for the 2006 Winter Olympics and is now trying to attract more Britons to the Turin Marathon "La Stampa" Grand Prix on Sunday 14 November so that the city, less well known than other classic Italian tourist destinations but nevertheless interesting for its culture, history and food and wine, can prove to be a place of discovery for those with a passion for running.

Italian history can never be fully understood without a visit to Turin, seat of the House of Savoy, birthplace of the nation and first capital of Italy. The food and wine of the region are noted for their quality and will make an impact on any gourmet.

Turin Marathon is renowned worldwide for its excellence and organization. The 42 km race is listed in the international calendar of the IAAF and has the Silver Road Race seal. Turin Marathon "La Stampa" Grand Prix therefore offers a touristic experience along with a sporting challenge allowing one to discover the beauty of Piedmont.

Turin, along with Boston and Kosice, shares the title of the world's oldest marathon event. The first was held in 1897. It is twenty-four years that the same organizing committee Turin Marathon have organized the race, renowned for its technical quality.

The marathon route is a complete circuit with the start and finish in Piazza Castello. From here the runners set off to the bank of the river Po and the towns of Moncalieri, Nichelino, Beinasco, Orbassano, Rivalta, Rivoli and Collegno, finally returning to the heart of the city via a long easy stretch, slightly in descent, just at the crucial point of the race. A real break for tired legs!

Naturally it is hoped that not only marathon runners visit Turin but also friends and families. Alongside the Turin Marathon "La Stampa" Grand Prix there is the Stratorino event, a six kilometre run or walk through the historic part of the city and the Junior Marathon, a short children's race of just over a kilometre which crosses the actual Turin Marathon finish line.

The money raised for these two events will be given to the Specchio dei Tempi Foundation and used for charitable works in Italy and abroad.

For more information, visit: turinmarathon.it