Sursum Corda – Don Romano Fiandra

The giant slalom for skiing priests

The Sursum Corda is one of the most unique and heartwarming events of the Piedmontese winter: a giant slalom race reserved for priests, religious men and women, and pastoral workers and collaborators, who hit the slopes every year in Limone Piemonte, in the heart of the Maritime Alps in the province of Cuneo. More than a competitive race, it is an occasion for meeting, friendship, and conviviality: a day on the snow lived in the spirit of sport and brotherhood.

A Cuneo tradition

Organized by the Diocese of Cuneo-Fossano, the event takes place on the renowned Giorgio Armand slope at the Riserva Bianca ski resort, in the Quota 1400 area. The race gathers dozens of participants from parishes across Piedmont and beyond: past editions have even seen bishops and religious figures arriving from distant regions, a testament to the community spirit that drives the event.

How the race works

The giant slalom is held as a single run. Athletes start in order of age, from oldest to youngest, and times are adjusted based on age according to FISI regulations: a formula that levels the playing field and rewards participation over pure performance. Competitors are divided into three groups — priests, men, and women — with awards for the top three finishers in each category.

Dedicated to Don Romano Fiandra

The edition is dedicated to the memory of Don Romano Fiandra, who passed away in February 2025 and was the promoter and soul of the event for many years. The Sursum Corda — whose name echoes the liturgical invitation "lift up your hearts" — thus preserves the memory of the man who turned this day into a moment of shared joy in the mountains of the Cuneo area.

More than just a race

At the end of the competition, the awards ceremony and a convivial lunch are held at the Hotel Riserva Bianca, which has always been the true heart of the day: a moment to reconnect, share stories, and strengthen the bonds between local parish communities. For those who love the mountains and are looking for an authentic event far from the crowds, the Sursum Corda is a small gem of the winter tradition in Limone Piemonte and the entire province of Cuneo.