Italian Dominance also on Dolomitenlauf 2024’s second day
The 54th Dolomitenlauf witnessed a triumphant display by Italian cross-country skiers, claiming victories in both the 42 and 21-kilometer classic races. The weekend, held against the breathtaking backdrop of the East Tyrolean Dolomites, attracted over 1,200 participants from 26 nations. The FIS races focused on distances of 21 and 42 kilometers, taking place around the Biathlonzentrum Obertilliach.
Italian siblings win short distance
In the 21-kilometer race, Italian skiers set the pace, with a sibling pair emerging victorious. Tommaso Dellagiacoma secured his second win of the weekend in a closely contested sprint, while his sister Carola dominated the women’s category with an uncontested start-to-finish victory. The Austrian Lisa Achleitner, winner of the previous day’s skating race, settled for second place. The 42-kilometer classic race saw a complete Italian sweep, with Francesco Ferrari leading the charge.
Despite battling illness, Austrian Anna Schmidhofer showcased resilience, landing on the podium in the 42-kilometer women’s race. Finnish skier Heli Heiskanen claimed victory in the same race, overcoming a ten-minute gap to local favorite Anna Schmidhofer, who considered her second-place finish a triumph given her recent health challenges.
Find full Dolomitenlauf 2024 results, Classic Race, here:
The Dolomitenlauf also highlighted the organizational excellence of the LRC Lienzer Dolomiten led by Franz Theurl: perfect snow conditions and well-prepared trails, earning positive feedback from the 1,200 starters, including 75 percent from abroad.
Franz Theurl expressed hopes to increase participant numbers in 2025, reaffirming commitment to Obertilliach and commending the efforts of volunteers and communities in the East Tyrolean Lesachtal.
In summary, the Dolomitenlauf showcased Italian prowess, sibling victories, Austrian resilience, and organizational excellence. The stunning winter landscape and competitive spirit left a positive mark, brings motivation for the upcoming Worldloppet races. Next stage: Marcialonga!
Pictures of Dolomitenlauf 2024 Classic Race
