Vertical Up racing is the perfect answer for those who decide that taking a ski lift up the mountain and then skiing down it seems just that bit too easy and inadequately energetic.
The concept is simple – ignore the lifts and make the ascent under your own steam; to add more interest, make it competitive; and at night.
That’s the plan for the Saslong Uphill that will be staged for the first time this winter in Val Gardena in the Italian Dolomites. The race route mirrors the famed Saslong World Cup downhill – only backwards and without skis but with no skis – racing from the Finish line to the starting gate instead of the more conventional way round.
The rules are that there are practically no rules. Any type of footwear and clothing can be used and any line of ascent, as long as the only power is human strength. Light is provided by head-lamps and key sections are illuminated. Running spikes, crampons and touring skins are a few of the suggestions for racers. Up to 1500 people will be allowed to compete with men and women in separate categories and there are speed and ‘backpack’ classes. Cash prizes, non-cash gifts and gift certificates are up to be won.
The Val Gardena-Groden Saslong Uphill is the second stage in a five resort, three country Vertical Up tour and will takes place on 21 January above the resort town of Selva. Competitors have a choice of two courses – the long and the short route. The original course is 3.5 kilometres, with an 830-metre difference in altitude, the shorter track just under 2 kilometres, with a 590-vertical climb. The maximum gradient is 56 per cent, and the average 24.5 per cent.
Other Vertical Up races will be held at Hinterstoder (7 January); Madonna di Campiglio-Pinzolo (28 January); Kitzbuhel (25 February); and Wengen (25 March). Registrations are now open.
