A lone cyclist tackles the rugged terrain of the Santa Cruz Stone King Rally, embodying the spirit of evolution in backcountry MTB enduro competition. This latest event maintains the blend of unforgiving adventure and electrifying gravity racing pioneered by Trans-Provence in 2009. Over a decade later, riders are now embarking on a completely new journey that pushes the boundaries from the dizzying heights of the High Alps to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. Traversing the expansive landscape, the rally explores the rich geographic tapestry near Tuscany, Italy.
Participants navigate through this picturesque region characterized by classic Tuscan features: rolling hills dotted with quaint rural homes, historic villages perched atop outcrops, and lush vineyards and olive groves that bespeak the area’s agrarian heritage. This diverse topography not only provides a stunning backdrop but also a challenging course for these intrepid mountain bikers as they descend from alpine altitudes to the azure embrace of the Mediterranean Sea. Nearby natural landmarks like the Apuan Alps and the expansive Apennine Mountains frame this adrenaline-fueled route, with national treasures such as the UNESCO-recognized Val d’Orcia, the dense woodlands of the Casentinesi Forest National Park, and the meandering Arno River enhancing the scenic grandeur of a race that’s as much about endurance as it is about reveling in the breathtaking beauty of Italy’s storied landscape.
