Bad Kleinkirchheim will host the Carinthia Cycle Marathon for the fourth time on 27th May 2012

Автор: GranFondo World | 25 Мая 2012

Within a short time, the Carinthia Cycle Marathon, with its start and finish in Bad Kleinkirchheim, has advanced to a spectacular cycling event which is famous well beyond the Carinthian borders. It was not without good reason that the renowned cycling magazine “Tour” selected the Carinthia Cycle Marathon to be among the 21 most scenic races for everyone in Europe; it is even called an “insiders’ tip for cyclists”. In Austria this event has been among the top 3 for a long time. The former professional cyclist, Peter “Paco” Wrolich, is enthusiastic: “This marathon is unique, there’s not a single one that is more beautiful. Last year there was snow on the mountain and 30°C by the lake.” Armin Assinger, a former professional skier, and top biathlete Christoph Sumann share this opinion following their personal experience.

In the fourth edition on 27th May 2012 again, cyclists will have to conquer a difference in altitude of 2,150 metres on the 106 kilometre long route; obstacles which are an incentive and a challenge at the same time. Also unchanged and unique will be the fantastic natural setting offered to the athletes. 

The panoramic road through the idyllic Nockberge Mountains – the so-called “Nockalm Circuit” – is considered to be the core of the race and has been a paradise for cyclists since its opening in 1981. The most strenuous sections of the route are the ascents to the pass summits, the Schiestlscharte (at 2,014 metres altitude) and Eisentalhöhe, the “roof” of the tour at 2,042 metres above sea level. 

The course continues through the Lieser and Malta Valleys, then continues along Lake Millstätter See, which is another highlight adding a special flair to the Carinthia Cycle Marathon. The final tour de force that must be overcome is the ascent from Radenthein to Bad Kleinkirchheim. This is where Philip Götsch from South Tyrol was celebrated as the winner last year.

An alternative to the stretch on the Nockalm Road is the 65 kilometre two lakes tour, which is suitable for everyone and leads from Bad Kleinkirchheim via Gnesau, Himmelberg, Klösterle and Afritz back to the starting point.

For this year, the organisers are expecting a new record in the number of participants. In view of the number of registrations, it could be possible to break the record of 1,000 participants.

All athletes born in 1995 or earlier are entitled to take part in the cycle marathon. There will be several age categories for men and women, on racing bikes or mountain bikes.

Registration and information at: www.kaernten-radmarathon.at