Volata Napola-Mokarta

A classic of Sicilian road running

The Volata Napola-Mokarta is a long-standing fixture on the Sicilian and national running calendar. Organized by the Gruppo Sportivo Dilettantistico La Volata under the patronage of the Municipality of Erice, the event takes place every late August in the village of Napola, on the slopes of Mount Erice, in the Province of Trapani. Born in 1997 as a simple amateur race, it has grown into one of the most popular and respected international races in Sicily.

The course between Napola and Mokarta

The competitive race is held on an undulating 10 km circuit connecting the villages of Napola (Erice) and Mokarta (Trapani), along a local loop of approximately 1.8 km to be repeated several times. The start is located on Via Milano, at the junction for Valderice. The course, challenging due to its constant elevation changes, has hosted some of the best middle-distance specialists: the course record belongs to Ugandan athlete Oscar Chelimo, who clocked 29'02" in 2018.

Multiple races for everyone

The day is not just for professionals. Alongside the 10 km international race, there is an amateur event covering 7,240 meters, open to senior and master categories, while younger runners compete in promotional categories, with distances ranging from 150 to 1,840 meters depending on age. This variety makes the Volata a true community festival, capable of engaging elite athletes, passionate runners, and children alike.

International champions in Erice

Over the years, the Volata Napola-Mokarta has attracted world-class athletes from Kenya, Burundi, Rwanda, and Eritrea, as well as the best of Italian road running. Past winners include prestigious names from the Italian circuit, confirming the prestige of a race that blends sport, international appeal, and local roots.

Sport and community

More than just a competition, the Volata Napola-Mokarta is a moment of gathering for the community of Erice and the entire Trapani area. On this late August afternoon, the streets fill with spectators, families, and fans, creating a festive atmosphere that follows the athletes from the children's finish line to the final sprint of the elites. An event that, for nearly thirty years, has showcased Sicily's passion for road running.