Stracittadina di Capistrello

The race that runs through the town

The Stracittadina di Capistrello is a road running race held in the town center of Capistrello, a municipality in the Marsica area of the province of L'Aquila, in Abruzzo. The format is the classic 'stracittadina' style: a circuit laid out entirely within the town, repeated several times, which brings the competition right under the eyes of the residents and transforms everyday streets into a competitive track. It is organized by the Polisportiva Atletica Capistrello, the local sports club that has been promoting athletics in the Marsica territory for years.

The route

The course consists of a 2.4 km loop to be repeated four times, for a total of 9.6 km. The start is set in Piazza Risorgimento; the route crosses Piazza del Municipio, heads down Via dei Martiri to the train station, and then climbs back up the main road to return to the starting point. It is a fast circuit with virtually no elevation gain, designed for those looking for a smooth race suitable for fast times. The race is open to registered athletes and typically takes place in the late afternoon, when the town center streets are filled with spectators.

A staple of Marsica running

The Stracittadina di Capistrello has established itself as one of the most anticipated events in the Abruzzo autumn running calendar, capable of attracting athletes from all over Central Italy. The event is part of the AICS Abruzzo circuit, with the trophy of the same name awarded to the top-ranked club. Beyond the competitive aspect, the day maintains a strong community festival feel: residents line the streets to cheer on the runners, while the awards ceremony and social gatherings, featuring tastings of local products, close the event in a festive atmosphere.

Capistrello and the Marsica region

Capistrello lies at the entrance to the Valle Roveto, in one of the most evocative areas of the Marsica, a land shaped by the history of the Fucino reclamation and the traditions of small Apennine villages. Bringing the race into the historic center means showcasing the town and its streets, offering athletes and spectators a community-focused course and a chance to discover an authentic corner of the L'Aquila hinterland.