So it's no wonder that almost all the big names in the MTB marathon world and their teams are tackling the classic in the Dolomites. Especially as it is the first important MTB race to be ridden in Corona times.

The big names on the scene don't want to miss out on this opportunity. "It will almost be a world championship, but without a world champion. But with a king and a queen," says organizer and OC boss Maurizio Kastlunger. The reigning European champion, former world champion and defending champion Thiago Ferreira (POR) as well as the reigning world champion and multiple winner of the HERO Leonardo Paez (COL), former European champion Aleksei Medvedev (RUS), Belgian champion Frans Claes and the strong Italians Juri Ragnoli, Daniele Mensi, Tony Longo and Mattia Longa have already registered.

In the women's race, the name of Swiss former world and European champion Esther Süss stands out, who will face her rivals Blaza Pintaric, European champion and World Championship medal winner from Slovenia, multiple winner of the KronplatzKing Marathon Kathrin Schwing (GER) and her compatriot Silke Keinath.

In order to guarantee the safety of the athletes in accordance with the FCI's Covid-19 protocol, all participants will receive a buff to cover their mouth and nose at the start and after crossing the finish line. In addition, the body temperature of all athletes will be measured both when they receive their start packet and when they enter the starting blocks. In addition, the starting blocks will be kept wider and athletes will have to line up in rows of 4 to ensure distance between each athlete.

About the start: this year, for the first time, it will take place on the long straight in front of the Fanes Senes Braies Nature Park Visitor Center in San Vigilio di Marebbe, while the award ceremony is planned for the afternoon near the finish line at Plan de Corones. Timekeeping will also be in "real time" for the first time, so that the race time of each participant, with the exception of the elite, will be triggered when they cross the start line.

In keeping with tradition, two valuable crowns will be made by artist Carlo Castlunger for all international races at Kronplatz, which will adorn the heads of the winners. The only question that remains is: who will be the king and queen of 2020?

Online registration for the final race of the Marathon Man Europe series is still open and will include different relay teams depending on the registration period.

www.kronplatzevents.com/de/Kronplatz-King