Mario Bonacci Memorial
Mountain running on the slopes of Fornalino, at Alpe Cheggio
About Bonacci Memorial
A mountain race in the heart of the Antrona Valley
The Mario Bonacci Memorial is a mountain running race held at Alpe Cheggio, a lush basin overlooking the Alps in the municipality of Antrona Schieranco, in the Province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola, Piedmont. Created to honor the memory of Mario Bonacci, a figure deeply connected to these mountains and this valley, the event has become a mid-June staple for trail and uphill running enthusiasts from across the Ossola region.
The course: 8 km and 1,000 meters of elevation gain
The route is short but demanding: 8 kilometers with 1,000 meters of positive elevation gain, entirely on the slopes of Fornalino. The race starts at the Rifugio Città di Novara in Alpe Cheggio, winding through technical trails, pastures, and scenic views of the valley peaks. It is a test for those who love vertical mountain running, where both legs and mental grit are required: every meter of elevation must be earned.
Organization and tradition
The race is organized by the Municipality of Antrona Schieranco in collaboration with the Novara Section of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI), a historic reference for hiking and mountaineering in the region. The bond with the Novara CAI is no coincidence: the section manages the Rifugio Città di Novara, the event's true headquarters.
Sport and local celebration
The Mario Bonacci Memorial is much more than just a race. After the finish line, Alpe Cheggio transforms into a festival: the pasta party with music, organized with the invaluable support of the local Alpini Group, brings together athletes, families, and residents in the convivial atmosphere typical of the Ossola valleys. It is the perfect opportunity to discover an authentic corner of the Alpine Piedmont, far from the main tourist crowds.
- Where: Alpe Cheggio, Antrona Schieranco (VB)
- When: Mid-June
- Distance: 8 km, 1,000 m D+
- Start: Rifugio Città di Novara, 9:00 AM
For those looking for a day of genuine sport immersed in the nature of the Antrona Valley, the Bonacci Memorial is a date to mark on your calendar.
Bonacci Memorial — edition 2026
La quinta edizione del Memorial Mario Bonacci torna all'Alpe Cheggio domenica 14 giugno 2026, confermando l'appuntamento di metà giugno per gli appassionati di corsa in montagna dell'Ossola e del Piemonte. La gara mantiene il suo format breve e intenso, con la partenza dal Rifugio Città di Novara e l'arrivo dopo la lunga salita sulle pendici del Fornalino.
Programme Bonacci Memorial 2026
Domenica 14 giugno 2026
- Entro le 8:30 — Iscrizioni sul posto, presso il Rifugio Città di Novara, Alpe Cheggio
- 9:00 — Partenza della gara: 8 km, 1000 m D+ sulle pendici del Fornalino
- A seguire — Premiazioni e pasta party con musica e festa, organizzati con il supporto del Gruppo Alpini di Valle
Referenti per informazioni: Agne 347 1343088, Marco 340 5582641.
Highlights Bonacci Memorial 2026
Prices Bonacci Memorial 2026
Practical information — Bonacci Memorial
How to get there
Alpe Cheggio can be reached by car by driving up the Antrona Valley from Villadossola (A26 motorway exit Vogogna-Domodossola, then SS33 and the Antrona Valley road). The Rifugio Città di Novara and the start area are located near the Cingino/Cheggio dam.
Registration
Registration on-site at the Rifugio Città di Novara, by 8:30 AM on the morning of the race.
Contacts
CAI Novara Section: +39 0321 625775 — [email protected]. Race coordinators: Agne +39 347 1343088, Marco +39 340 5582641.
Tips
This is a challenging mountain course: trail shoes, clothing suitable for high altitude, and attention to weather conditions are essential. After the race, enjoy the pasta party with the local Alpini Group.
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Where does it take place — Bonacci Memorial
Rifugio Città di Novara, Alpe Cheggio
Alpe Cheggio, 28841 Antrona Schieranco