The Sibillini Mountains are one of the major mountain groups in the Apennines, in central Italy. A magical area crossed by placid streams and rushing waterfalls, with pastures, forests and villages rich in history and legend. An enchanted place, perfect for discovering by bike, with challenging climbs and fast-paced descents. Even better if the “guide” is an exceptional cyclist. Or rather, an ultra-cyclist: Omar Di Felice.

Saturday, August 7, Omar was the protagonist of the ride organized by UYN and ON – Out in Nature: 50 km through the beautiful Sibillini Mountains with departure and arrival from the UYN Basecamp Store, the Experience Store opened by UYN in San Ginesio (Macerata, Marche region). Many people took part, not at all discouraged by the demanding route. All motivated by the idea of riding together with one of the greatest ultra-cyclists in the world and to test the new UYN cycling collection.

EXTREME ADVENTURES IN THE “OMAR ZONE”

The Experience began the previous evening, Friday 6, with the presentation of Omar Di Felice’s latest book, “Zona Omar. Stati Uniti coast to coast pedalando oltre il limite”. The UYN athlete fascinated the many cycling enthusiasts at the UYN Basecamp Store by narrating his most extreme adventures, from the winter crossing of the Himalayas till the Everest Base Camp (5,364 metres above sea level) to his recent victory in the Race Across France, where Omar defeated his opponents by setting a new course record: 2,500 km in 5 days, 8 hours and 49 minutes. Total hours of sleep? No more than seven!

For Omar it was also an opportunity to tell about his partnership with UYN and the development of the “Himalaya-proof” collection that will arrive in autumn in the shops: jackets, shirts, knickers, socks and technical underwear that the Italian athlete has successfully tested and worn during his adventure in the Himalayas, up to extreme temperatures of -30 °.

THE UYNNER RIDE

On Saturday, the large group of UYNNers set off to explore the Sibillini Mountains, with Omar in the lead. The leisurely pace of the ride allowed everyone to enjoy the fantastic views and natural wonders of the National Park. After passing through the medieval town of Sarnano, the group tackled the long climb up to Sassotetto, 1500 metres above sea level. The fatigue was rewarded at the top with an abundant refreshment, before the fast descent to the lake of Fiastra and the return to the base. Or rather, to the Basecamp!

“It was a very exciting two days together with a lot of UYNNER”, said Omar Di Felice. “On Friday evening the story of my adventures, from the Race Across France to the crossing of the Himalayas testing the UYN products; on Saturday the amazing ride. It was something unique, an event that brought us all together after a complicated period. To all our friends at UYN I say stay tuned because there will be more news in the coming months”.