On Sunday, April 9, 2017, the Vivicittà Half Marathon will take place in the streets of Florence promoting two clear goals—to have fun and to put an end to bullying. The event, open to both amateur and professional runners, is the 34th edition of what has become a “special union between sport and the city” according to city councillor for sport Andrea Vannucci.
The run starts at 9:30am on lungarno della Zecca and winds its way through some of the city’s most picturesque streets before reaching the finish line in piazza Santa Croce. Close to 3,000 people have registered, more than a quarter of them women, a presence that continues to grow each year. There will also be a strong international contingent, with runners coming from as far as Hong Kong, Japan and the United States.
In addition to the half marathon, participants may choose from several other events, including a “split”, which allows two runners to divide the total distance; a non-competitive 8 km run; a 5 km walking race that will feature the former world champion Milena Megli; and the Tommasino Run, a 1.5 km race for kids in collaboration with the Tommasino Bacciotti children’s foundation.
Festivities will get underway Saturday, April 8, 2017 at the Vivicittà Village in piazza Santa Croce, where a guided “Walk with Dante” highlights the pre-race build-up.
Those wishing to learn more or to register should visit the event’s website.
