Also this year the champions will be here, who will train whilst celebrating, but there will also be simple enthusiasts, who will celebrate whilst tiring themselves out somewhat, together for the start of the International Ski tour 2009-2010. The circuit consists of ten races - nine in Italy between the VCO and Valsesia - along with the novelty introduced this year in the form of the stage in Vallese in Switzerland.

It seems that the Ski-touring movement is becoming ever more popular and rich in enthusiasts of all ages. It is thanks the structure of an event like this that you begin to understand why: low costs for the races (20 euros per stage, including prizes for almost everyone and dinner in shelters), little attention towards the performance of each individual and overall ranking, but above all it is the atmosphere of conviviality and celebration that represents a victory for everyone. As mentioned, awards are distributed to all: there is a loyalty award for those who participate in at least eight races of the circuit (free entry to the Spa of Premia and a pair of technical gloves made by a wll known brand of mountain clothing, the main sponsor of the tour), and discounts are on offer even to those who manage to take part in just a single stage.

In short, this is an event that presents itelf as somthing that goes to the beyond being simply a sporting event. Training for the agonists, a different and unusual Saturday night for all others, and when the race is over, everyone at the refuge together will dine in joy, in a convivial and warm, climate that the cold temperatures of our beautiful mountains cannot affect.The tour begins on 27th December in Cheggio, Val Antrona, and ends on 27th February in Val Formazza. Here are all the stages of the circuit- Cheggio Ski Alp 27/12/09- Befana Ski Alp 06/01/10- Pian di Sole 09/01/10-Devero Ski Alp by night  16/01/10- Mera Ski Alp 24/01/10- Mottarone Moon Ski Alp 29/01/10- Simplon Ski Alp 06/02/10 - Night Race 13/02/10- La Monte Rosa  17/02/10-Rif. Mte Zeus e Marialuisao 27/02/10.