July 16, 2002

Now in its 16th year, the Maratona dles Dolomites attracts 7,000 participants, undeterred by the early morning start.

Dolomite Mountains, Northern Italy - Employees from LSI Logic Europe took on the spectacular Dolomite mountains in northern Italy June 29 and 30 to participate in the 16^th  Maratona dles Dolomites.  Considered the “bicycle challenge of the year” in the region and beyond, customers and friends joined LSI Logic staff to form a team of 156 bicycle enthusiasts.

First begun in 1986, this annual event has now become one of the most important amateur cycling events in Europe, bringing together 7,000 participants in a celebration of sport and friendship.  This great bicycle marathon covers a unique route in the spectacular surroundings of the Dolomites including Val Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, Livinallongo, Colle Santa Lucia, Selva di Cadore and Cortina.  Depending on the level of fitness, participants have a choice of three routes, ranging from 57 km (35 miles) to 147 km (91 miles) and climbing heights anywhere between 1, 700 and 4,350 meters.   Hence, the race can take from three to ten hours to complete.

The LSI Logic team cycled a combined total distance of 15,900 km through the spectacular Dolomite mountains.

The great success of this event is undoubtedly linked to its splendid setting and striking routes.

"Some of the routes are really tough, however, the feeling of camaraderie and fantastic scenery experienced during the race are great incentives for the 6:15 a.m. start," said Stefan Kunkel, Physical Design Center manager from Munich and LSI Logic team organizer.  "It's a great challenge to both mind and body."

In total, 85 teams took part in the race.  Each participant received an individual time report and certificate for completion.   Assistance and refreshments were provided along the route, as well as repair services and medical assistance if needed.

The LSI Logic team was made up of both long-time cycling enthusiasts and complete novices.  A great incentive to get fit, some who took part for the first time this year were encouraged to do so after hearing of great experiences in previous years.

Three organizers of the LSI Logic team (from left to right) Stefan Kunkel, Bernd Ahner and Roland Klemt returned home with first place trophies in three categories.

Most of the team started basic stamina training for the event during the Winter.  Then in March the outside training began, mostly consisting of 60 km to 120 km rides taking place on weekends. Other members of the team prepared themselves with "Spinning" classes, where participants ride static bicycles that have adjustable tension on the front wheel.   Others still took part in mountain bike events throughout the Spring. 

This year the LSI Logic team returned with three trophies. LSI Logic achieved first place for both the biggest team and the greatest total distance covered by all team members, setting a new record of 15,900 km.  A third cup, the Marlene Trophy, was also presented to LSI Logic for bringing the largest number of women to the finish line, as this year's race was dedicated to women.  In fact, so extensive was the LSI Logic team, they completely booked-out an entire hotel.

"It's great to be part of a team that does so well, however, this is only a small part of participating," said Bernd Ahner, LSI Logic Program manager from Munich.   "This really is a unique event, and the team spirit experienced by all is quite unbelievable.  It's a great coming together of many people from different countries and backgrounds."  

If you would like to be part of the winning team for the July 2003 event, contact orgteam@lsil.com .

  Complete race results can be found  here (in Italian only).

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