Coppa Collecchio

A classic of amateur cycling

The Coppa Collecchio is one of the oldest and most prestigious road cycling races in Emilia-Romagna. First held in 1929, the race takes place every year in Collecchio, a municipality in the province of Parma located along the Via Emilia, at the foot of the Parma Apennines. The event is organized by G.S. Virtus Collecchio, a historic local cycling club, in collaboration with the municipal administration.

Reserved for the Elite and Under 23 categories, the race is a one-day road race that has been part of the national and regional calendar for almost a century. Over the years, it has seen young cycling talents and international teams at the start line, becoming a benchmark event for cycling enthusiasts in the Parma area.

The route through the Carrega Woods

The course is famous for its toughness and selectivity. The race starts from viale della Libertà, in the center of Collecchio, and takes place largely within the Parco regionale dei Boschi di Carrega, one of the most picturesque protected natural areas in the province. The route passes through the hamlets and villages of Talignano, Pontescodogna, and I Pifferi, with an initial circuit repeated several times followed by longer final laps.

The decisive moment is the climb of Segalara, where the King of the Mountains (Gran Premio della Montagna) is located: this is where the race heats up and the standings are decided. The combination of rolling hills, wooded sections, and short, steep climbs makes the Coppa Collecchio a complete test, suitable for riders who can combine endurance and explosive power.

Tradition and memory

The race maintains a strong connection with the territory: in recent editions, the Coppa Collecchio has been associated with other historic awards, such as the Trofeo Sergio Caselli, the Trofeo Riccardo Bertinelli, and the Memorial Corrado Cavazzini, dedicated to figures dear to Parma cycling. Among the winners in the roll of honor is Mario Sgrinzato, who holds the record for victories with three wins.

More than just a race, the Coppa Collecchio is a town festival that draws residents of Collecchio and neighboring municipalities to the roads, in a day that combines sport, tradition, and passion for cycling in the heart of Emilia-Romagna.