Arrancabirra - Mara Viganò Bortot Memorial

The Arrancabirra in Ceppo Morelli: Sport and Conviviality in Valle Anzasca

The Arrancabirra - Mara Viganò Bortot Memorial is a fun-filled running race held at the municipal sports field of Ceppo Morelli, a small town in the Valle Anzasca in the province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola (VB), Piedmont. The event is organized by the Sci Club Valle Anzasca, a historic local sports association, in collaboration with the Fulgor Vanzone society, and was created to honor the memory of Mara Viganò Bortot, a beloved figure in the valley community.

A Race for All Ages

More than just a competitive event, the Arrancabirra is a celebration of sport designed to involve entire families. The program offers different courses based on age, ensuring everyone can participate:

• Children (born 2018 and later): a fun obstacle course set up inside the sports field.
• Youth (born 2017–2014): a 1.5 km running track.
• Youth (born 2013–2008) and Adults (18+): the main 3.5 km loop with a 400-meter elevation gain, the true heart of the event.

The registration fee includes a race pack with an Alpenplus backpack from the Sci Club Valle Anzasca, and a communal lunch open to all attendees follows the races.

At the Foot of Monte Rosa

Ceppo Morelli is located along the road that climbs up Valle Anzasca towards Macugnaga, at the foot of the majestic east face of Monte Rosa. The alpine setting makes the Arrancabirra much more than just a race: it is an opportunity to enjoy a day outdoors in one of the most picturesque areas of the Ossola, surrounded by meadows, forests, and peaks exceeding four thousand meters. The lighthearted spirit of the race, the family atmosphere, and the conviviality of the final lunch make it a highly anticipated event for the local community and those who love combining movement with the mountains.

A Memorial with Community Value

The event is deeply rooted in the territory: it is promoted by the valley's sports volunteers and is linked to the many activities that the Sci Club Valle Anzasca dedicates to the local youth. Participating in the Arrancabirra also means supporting the community life of a small Piedmontese mountain town.