One of the most beautiful enduro races I’ve done – Coppa Italia at Mount Matajur
I spent the weekend racing the Coppa Italia Enduro in San Pietro al Natisone, Italy, and it turned out to be one of my favorite MTB trips of the year.
The race takes place on the slopes of Mount Matajur (1,641 m / 5,384 ft), where riders are shuttled up the mountain before pushing their bikes the final few hundred vertical meters to the summit. From there, the race unfolds across some incredibly natural and technical terrain in the Natisone Bike Arena.
Things didn’t quite go to plan for me. During practice, a rear hub bearing failed, but thanks to the guys at RW Bikes, I was back on the trails for race day. Then, near the end of Stage 3, I crashed in a rock garden, bent my handlebars and injured my thumb, so I decided not to continue to the final stage.
Still, weekends like this remind me why I race. Amazing trails, spectacular scenery overlooking both Italy and Slovenia, friendly people, great food, and an atmosphere that makes you want to come back.
I put together a documentary-style video covering the entire weekend, including drone footage, race action, behind-the-scenes moments, and an interview with the race organizer.
🎥 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF3zJjNVc5E
Has anyone else here ridden in the Natisone Bike Arena or raced on Mount Matajur? I’d definitely love to come back.