MezzaCiocia...ra (Frosinone Half Marathon)

A half marathon in the heart of Ciociaria

The MezzaCiocia...ra is the most anticipated road race in the municipality of Frosinone, the capital of the province of the same name in southern Lazio. Created to give the Ciociaria region a benchmark race on the classic 21.097 km distance, it is traditionally held on the last Sunday of January, when the crisp, clear air of the Sacco Valley provides ideal conditions for fast running.

The start and finish are set at Parco Matusa, the city's large green lung, which transforms into an event village for the occasion with race packs, refreshments, and awards ceremonies. The course, entirely closed to traffic for the duration of the race, crosses the main arteries of Frosinone, allowing athletes to run in total safety.

Three ways to participate

The format is designed to welcome both competitive runners and those who run for the pleasure of being there:

• 21.097 km Half Marathon — the flagship race, on a certified, competitive, and timed course.
• 9.6 km Short Race — the most accessible distance, very popular with young people and those new to road racing.
• Non-competitive Fun Run — a recreational walk open to families, groups, and local schools.

The meeting point is early in the morning at Parco Matusa, with the competitive races starting at 9:00 AM and the fun run following shortly after. The municipality implements temporary changes to city traffic every year, generally from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Sport, inclusion, and solidarity

The MezzaCiocia...ra has built its identity around a very simple idea: no one is left behind. Thanks to collaboration with FISDIR and local associations like «Anche Noi», athletes with intellectual and relational disabilities can compete, while wheelchair participants are accompanied by runners from «Sognoattivo» and «Corri con Ale». A portion of the fun run registration fees is donated to research, specifically to the Telethon Foundation.

Folklore along the route

What makes this half marathon different from others is the musical accompaniment: town bands, folk groups in costume, percussionists, and DJ sets mark the kilometers and turn the race into an urban festival. The finisher medal celebrates the Balia Ciociara, a historical figure symbolizing the strength of the women of this land and one of the most recognizable emblems of Ciociarian identity.

The post-race ritual

Upon arrival, in addition to refreshments, athletes find the customary pasta party, with classic pasta and beans served at Parco Matusa: a convivial moment that closes the morning and, more than any award ceremony, tells the story of the hospitality of southern Lazio. The awards cover the men's and women's overall rankings, age categories, and the largest teams, which are always highly motivated to bring substantial groups to Frosinone.

A growing event

In a decade, the race has grown from a local event to a competition capable of attracting athletes from various Italian regions, thanks in part to its recognition as the AiCS National Half Marathon Championship. For those visiting Ciociaria in winter, it is the perfect opportunity to combine a serious running challenge with the discovery of Frosinone and its hinterland, among historic villages, abbeys, and a solid, generous gastronomy.