6 Hours of San Giuseppe

The 6 Hours of San Giuseppe, the ultramarathon of Putignano

Every year, around the feast of San Giuseppe, the historic center of Putignano, in the province of Bari, turns into a city track where runners push themselves to the limit. The 6 Hours of San Giuseppe is a timed ultramarathon: the winner is the person who covers the greatest distance within six hours. It is one of the most anticipated events in the Apulian running scene and has long been a staple of the national ultramarathon calendar.

A 1.230 km loop in the heart of the city

The race takes place on a 1.230 km circuit through the historic center, a flat track completely closed to traffic that athletes cover lap after lap. The meeting point is in Piazza Aldo Moro, while spectators can follow the runners' efforts up close along the entire loop. The start for all distances is set for the early afternoon, so the race concludes in the evening hours, when fatigue blends with the encouragement of the crowd.

Six hours, marathon, and Marcialonga

The program features more than just one event. Alongside the six-hour timed race, there is the San Giuseppe Marathon, covering the classic 42.195 km on the same circuit for those who prefer to test themselves over the queen distance. The following day, Sunday, is dedicated to the Marcialonga di San Giuseppe, a non-competitive walk open to families, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers: a way to experience the event without a race bib, wandering through the town's streets.

• 6-hour timed race (individual)
• San Giuseppe Marathon (42.195 km on the city circuit)
• Marcialonga di San Giuseppe, non-competitive walk

A fixture on the national calendar

The event is organized by ASD Amatori Putignano with the patronage of the Puglia Region, the City of Putignano, the FIDAL Puglia Regional Committee, and the IUTA (Italian Ultramarathon and Trail Association). The 6 Hours is included in the official FIDAL and IUTA ultramarathon calendar and is a stage of the Grand Prix IUTA and the Club Super Marathon Italia Championship, attracting ultramarathoners from all over the peninsula to Putignano.

Putignano, beyond the Carnival

Known throughout Italy for its Carnival, one of the oldest in Europe, Putignano reveals another side of its character with this race: its sporting and popular spirit. Running for six hours among the palaces of the Murgia historic center means immersing yourself in the identity of a town that knows how to celebrate and welcome visitors; at the end of the race, the warmth of Apulian hospitality is always present, with its refreshments and typical products.