Vertical d'la Sacra

A vertical challenge to the Sacra di San Michele

The Vertical d'la Sacra is an uphill running race held in Sant'Ambrogio di Torino, a town in the lower Susa Valley in the province of Turin, in the heart of Piedmont. The competition offers a course that is as short as it is demanding: just 2.5 kilometers with 530 meters of elevation gain—an extreme gradient that tests even the specialists of steep climbs and intense anaerobic effort.

The charm of the event lies entirely in its destination. The race climbs the mountain paths to reach the plateau of the Sacra di San Michele, the ancient abbey perched on Mount Pirchiriano that overlooks the entrance to the Susa Valley and is one of the region's most iconic monuments. Reaching the foot of this extraordinary medieval complex after a relentless climb makes the Vertical d'la Sacra a unique experience in the panorama of Piedmontese trail and vertical running.

A young race that has already made its mark

Founded in 2024, the event has grown rapidly to become one of the most anticipated mountain running appointments in the area. The race is part of the Vertical Valsusa and Val Cenischia Circuit, which includes eleven stages scattered across the Cottian Alps, with elevation gains ranging from 410 to 1,000 meters, rewarding the consistency of athletes throughout the season. Among locations such as Villar Focchiardo, Piossasco, Rubiana, and Chiomonte, the Sant'Ambrogio stage is considered one of the most iconic in the calendar.

Organization and charitable spirit

The Vertical d'la Sacra is organized by the Polisportiva Comunale Sant'Ambrogio, with the patronage of the Municipality and affiliation with the sports promotion bodies Fidal and Uisp. Beyond the competitive aspect, the race has a strong charitable focus: a portion of the registration fees is donated to the "Se Vuoi Puoi" association, which promotes the inclusion of people affected by multiple sclerosis.

The race evening

The day does not end at the finish line. After the race, the festivities continue in town with the traditional Pasta Party and the awards ceremony, which recognizes the best athletes in various categories, from the overall men's and women's rankings to the Over 60 master categories. It is a convivial moment that brings a day dedicated to sport and the mountains to a friendly close.