Basil Hofer Lauf

The Basil Hofer Lauf in Val di Vizze

The Basil Hofer Lauf is one of the most cherished sporting events in the upper Val di Vizze (Pfitsch), in the autonomous province of Bolzano, Trentino-South Tyrol. Every summer, the village of San Giacomo (St. Jakob) becomes the stage for a mountain race that blends sport, tradition, and a strong sense of community, attracting runners, families, and enthusiasts from across the Wipptal region.

Historical roots: the Basil Hofer Marsch

The event traces its roots back to the Basil Hofer Marsch, which was held 17 times between 1973 and 1989 in St. Jakob in Pfitsch. The march was initiated by a Caritas group from Paderborn that spent their summers at the local "Neuwirt" inn. After a long hiatus, the race was brought back to life in 2018 by the ASV Pfitscher Eisbären (Amateur Sportverein Pfitsch), which continues to organize it while keeping the local history alive.

The route and categories

The main course (Hauptlauf) measures approximately 10 kilometers with an elevation gain of 348 meters, winding through the pastures and alpine trails of the valley. The start is traditionally located at the San Giacomo fire station. Alongside the competitive race, the day includes:

• Kinder- und Jugendlauf: races dedicated to children and teenagers, which kick off the morning;
• Hauptlauf: the main 10 km race, open to both athletes and amateurs;
• Wanderer: the non-competitive category reserved for walkers, with a dedicated start time.

More than just a race

The Basil Hofer Lauf is about more than just competition: after the awards ceremony, the day continues with a convivial gathering, the traditional Dämmerschoppen with music and a DJ, bringing together participants and spectators in the festive atmosphere typical of Val di Vizze villages. Over the years, the race has featured athletes from Wipptal clubs, with recurring names like Martin Griesser and Dagmar Hofer of ASV Freienfeld among the winners of recent editions.

Why participate

Set in one of the most picturesque valleys in South Tyrol, the Basil Hofer Lauf offers the chance to run or walk immersed in an authentic mountain landscape, accompanied by the warm hospitality of the Pfitsch community. It is an event suitable for everyone, from competitive runners to children and casual walkers, and represents a precious fixture in the summer calendar of the Municipality of Val di Vizze.