Marlene Südtirol Sunshine Race

The premier MTB event in Nalles

The Marlene Südtirol Sunshine Race is one of South Tyrol's most prestigious sporting events and an absolute classic on the international mountain bike calendar. It takes place in Nalles/Nals, a small village in the province of Bolzano known as the "village of roses," nestled between Bolzano and Merano at an altitude of 321 meters in one of South Tyrol's most renowned wine and fruit-growing regions.

Organized by the local Sunshine Racers ASV Nals team, the event focuses on Olympic cross-country (XCO) and is the only race in Italy certified by the UCI as Hors Catégorie (HC), the highest category outside the World Cup circuit. This status makes it an unmissable spring date for off-road cycling, attracting Olympic and world champions from across Europe.

A technical track among blooming apple orchards

The course, approximately 4.2 km long with 180 meters of elevation gain per lap, is considered one of the most spectacular and challenging of the entire season. It winds through the orchards and vineyards surrounding Nalles, with the famous and steep nightingale climb as a key feature, set against the stunning backdrop of blooming apple trees. The race takes place just as the valley is painted in the colors of spring, offering a unique spectacle for both athletes and spectators.

Two days of racing for all ages

The event spans two days: Saturday is reserved for international XCO-HC races for Junior, Under 23, and Elite categories, both men and women, while Sunday is dedicated to young riders with national races for Allievi (U15) and Esordienti (U17) categories. The event enjoys high visibility, with live coverage on Rai Sport confirming its elite status. Supported by the South Tyrolean brand Marlene, the Sunshine Race has become a symbol of South Tyrolean sport and spring, acting as a bridge between alpine cycling tradition and the world's mountain bike elite.