80 voglia di corsa

Running inside a military range

"80 voglia di corsa" is a charity running event held in a truly unique setting: the Monte Romano military range, located in the municipality of Monte Romano, in the province of Viterbo, in the upper Tuscia region of Lazio. For one day a year, this Italian Army training area—normally off-limits to the public—opens its doors to runners, families, and curious visitors, offering miles of dirt tracks, hills, and Mediterranean scrubland unlike any other event in Lazio.

The initiative was launched in 2025 by a spontaneous committee of members from the 80th "Roma" Regiment and immediately established itself as one of the most popular events on the provincial running calendar, with over five hundred participants in its very first edition.

The courses

The event is designed to welcome a diverse audience, from competitive athletes to families with children. Three distances are available:

• 20 km competitive trail — the most challenging route, crossing the inner areas of the range with elevation changes and natural terrain;
• 10 km race, both competitive and non-competitive, part of the provincial Corrintuscia circuit;
• 5 km fun run, open to everyone, ideal for families, children, and walkers.

Technical assistance and race timing are managed by ASD Polisportiva Montalto, ensuring professional standards worthy of a federal competition.

The charitable purpose

The heart of the event is fundraising: registration fees and sponsor contributions are donated entirely to a local organization. In 2025, the 6,000 euros raised went to the Autismo Cuori Blu association in Tarquinia; in 2026, the same amount was donated to the Italian Association for People with Down Syndrome (AIPD) — Viterbo Section. It is this spirit of solidarity, even more than the stopwatch, that explains the event's rapid success.

More than just running: the Army Open Day

The races are accompanied by an open day dedicated to learning about the Italian Army. In past editions, participants have been able to visit:

• the static display of military vehicles from the regiment;
• the Tactical Training Center stand, featuring mock-ups and advanced sensor technology;
• the "Rolfo" flight simulator from the Army Aviation, which allows visitors to experience the sensations of flight;
• a refreshment area and musical entertainment, with the presence of local associations and sports groups.

Monte Romano and Tuscia

Monte Romano is a small village of just over two thousand inhabitants in the province of Viterbo, halfway between Tarquinia and Lake Vico. Its territory is dominated by the vast training range, one of the largest in Italy, which has effectively preserved a landscape of great natural value. "80 voglia di corsa" is currently the most tangible opportunity to explore it, in a region—Lazio—where Tuscia remains one of the most authentic areas, largely untouched by mass tourism.

Why participate

Those looking for a fast race will find a smooth, well-timed course in the 10 km; off-road enthusiasts will enjoy a true trail in the 20 km; and those who simply want to spend a different kind of Sunday can walk five kilometers, visit the military vehicles, and support a worthy cause. All this at an affordable entry fee, with the certainty that every euro stays within the local community.