"Padre Giuseppe" Memorial / San Francesco Trophy

Youth cycling at home in Casoli

In the small village of Guarenna Nuova, a district of the Municipality of Casoli in the province of Chieti, local streets are closed to traffic every year to host one of the most deeply rooted road races in the Abruzzo youth cycling scene. The "Padre Giuseppe" Memorial and the San Francesco Trophy are two combined races organized by ASD Guarenna 3.0, led by Filippo Rossetti. For over two decades, they have brought the best of the Italian Cycling Federation's youth categories to the Val di Sangro.

Two races, one major event

The format features two distinct races on the same day. The "Padre Giuseppe" Memorial is dedicated to the beginner category (first and second year, including female beginners and juniors), while the San Francesco Trophy—which in recent years has also taken the name Valle del Gogna Gold Race—is reserved for students. Both races award the title of FCI Abruzzo Regional Champion for their respective categories, a coveted honor that attracts cycling clubs from all over the peninsula.

A circuit through the hills of Val di Sangro

The races are held on a city circuit winding around the district, with the start and finish line in the heart of Guarenna Nuova, between Casoli and Sant'Eusanio del Sangro. The flat, multi-lap track offers a technical and spectacular route that crosses charming agricultural land, where cycling intertwines with the authentic beauty of the Abruzzo landscape and views over the Valle del Gogna.

A tradition that unites the community

More than just a race, the "Padre Giuseppe" Memorial has become a true community festival over the years: an occasion where the Pro Loco, local sponsors, and regional institutions collaborate to promote sports among the youth. The event is part of the "Ciclismo Oggi e Domani" Grand Prix circuit and is a staple of the Abruzzo youth calendar, attracting dozens of teams and hundreds of riders every year.

Why it's worth attending

For cycling enthusiasts, watching the races in Guarenna means seeing the talents of tomorrow in action within a genuine and engaging setting. For casual spectators, it is a chance to discover an authentic corner of the province of Chieti and experience the warm atmosphere of a village festival revolving around two-wheeled sports.