Cappuccino Experience

Corri sotto le torri

What do I like most about Italy? Now that’s a difficult question. I’ve thought about it quite a bit recently. Obviously there’s the food, the weather, the history, the people and so on. But maybe, for me anyway, it’s that there’s always something going on at the weekend. Mercatini, sagre, feste, fiere, mostre, gare, sfilate, rievocazioni storiche. The list goes on. It’s quite easy to find something to do, even in small towns.

I’ve been in Italy for nearly four years now but last Sunday was the first time I took part in a fun run (even though I enjoy running around Turin alone). Le corri sotto le torri (Run Under the Towers) was only in it’s second edition – an 8km ‘race’ around the beautiful city of Alba in Piedmont.

It began with a 1km run for children. My 4 and a half year old nephew, Enrico, took part. Full of excitement from first thing in the morning, he made me feel so proud when he completed it. Maybe he set a new world record for his age group!

Then it was down to the serious business with running partner Ettore, my brother-in-law.

Running along the cobbled streets I managed to find time to salute the fans who had come to see me (my wife and nephew!)

On completion we were treated like heroes and given as many Kinder snacks as we wanted.

Some Italian athletes came along to lend their encouragement. Here I am with Giuseppe Gerbi (the Italian record holder for the hour with a staggering 20.483km), Gloria Barale, and Stefano Dacastello (behind).

I’ve heard that the best way to relax after a strenuous run is with a nice frothy cappuccino! Well, at least it does the trick for Mr Cappuccino.

Oh and by the way, the winner received a 100g truffle which at about €20 per gram is not a bad prize. Get training and see you next year!