The world’s longest giant slalom takes place on Seceda in the Dolomites of the Val Gardena
The Gardenissima takes place every year in the Val Gardena, one of the most famous valleys in the Dolomites. This race is not just for the skiing elite: Ambitious amateur skiers also get the chance to show what they can do. The premiere of the race, which is now known far beyond borders, was almost three decades ago. The fastest racers complete the course in just over 3 minutes.
The 6-kilometre giant slalom course runs from the Seceda in Ortisei to Mt. Col Raiser. Participants cover a vertical drop of 1,033 metres and pass through 115 gates. The race starts in pairs in a parallel format. After the first 1.5 kilometres, the two courses merge into one, which takes the athletes to the valley station of the Col Raiser lift in Selva Gardena.
In addition to the main race for adults, there is also a children's race (Kids Race) and a ski test, where the latest racing ski models can be tried out. An interesting supporting programme, including the popular after-race party, rounds off the end of the season.