sport
The Supermarathon that challenges athletes with Etna, already 500 entries from around the world
The event on June 13 was presented, returning after the break of 2025. Unique charm, starting from Marina di Cottone to reach the craters
It’s not just a sport. Rather, it’s a unique event that brings together, in a single day, the Ionian Sea with the power of the crater. It combines passion with love, competition with effort, tension with smiles. We are talking about the “Supermarathon of Etna,” the event on June 13 that, after a year of hiatus, is making a grand comeback with already over 500 participants - coming not only from Italy but also from various countries around the world - who will engage in a competition without barriers starting from the blue of Marina di Cottone (in Fiumefreddo) to the white of the volcano.
From zero to 3000 meters: 43 kilometers of elevation. A unique route, created years ago by enthusiasts who wanted to bet on realizing that sea-mountain duo that has always characterized the eastern side of Etna. A captivating path that winds from the severe and elegant facades of the towns of Fiumefreddo, Piedimonte, and Linguaglossa, through the orchards first, then delving into the oak forests and passing among the centuries-old pines of the Ragabo forest.
From here, a leap into the mysterious lunar lava landscape, among ridges of magma, gravel, astragalus, to reach a finish line that is not just competition, physical strength, or a desire for a medal, but rather a great love for the deep mystery of nature. These are the very feelings that underpin the organizers, the Etna Trail association with its president Rosita Costanzo at the forefront, along with the many volunteers who dedicate great energy to its success.
In 2025, the Supermarathon of Etna took a break after 17 editions. A positive pause indeed, considering that today we return to the old path with more enthusiasm, energy, and grit. And betting on its undisputed success are primarily the mayors of the involved municipalities: Angelo Torrisi of Fiumefreddo di Sicilia, Luca Stagnitta for Linguaglossa, Ignazio Puglisi for Piedimonte Etneo, and Concetto Stagnitti for Castiglione di Sicilia.
“The Supermarathon of Etna is not just a race - emphasized the president of Etna Trail Rosita Costanzo during the presentation held in the council chamber of the Municipality of Linguaglossa - but a vertical journey into the beauty and strength of our territory. Bringing it back to the calendar means giving athletes an authentic challenge and our towns an opportunity for sports and tourism growth.
“We wanted it and we continue to want it - added the mayor of Linguaglossa Luca Stagnitta - because it has now become a root of our territory, an undisputed and undeniable appointment, in which the territory, sport, and beauty are exalted.” And Linguaglossa this year will play the role of headquarters of the event, a logistical and organizational hub, a reference point for hospitality, briefings, and services dedicated to participants.
And what about the course? Always new and varied. Speaking about it during the presentation was race director Carmelo Santoro: “It is demanding but safe, enhancing every meter of elevation: 43 kilometers of ascent require preparation, strategy, and great awareness.”
The presentation event was also an opportunity to unveil the official medal destined for all those who complete the 43 kilometers: “A recognition made of natural wood and plexiglass that recalls the identity elements of the race: nature, mountain, purity of ascent.” But, mainly, an extraordinary achievement.