HERO Südtirol Dolomites, positioned as one of the world’s toughest mountain bike events, is supporting ‘Obiettivo3’ to help make sport more accessible to people living with disabilities.
The Obiettivo3 initiative was conceived by Paralympian Alex Zanardi, and aims to recruit, empower, and support disabled people who want to start a sport.
Nine Obiettivo3 athletes will compete in the HERO Südtirol Dolomites on Saturday, June 14, 2025 – with a number of fundraising efforts under way across the event weekend.
One of the supporting initiatives is to auction a painting by artist Veronica Caterisano. The proceeds will go towards the association’s projects.
Meanwhile, the HERO Charity Night on Thursday, June 12, will feature magician and escape artist Andrew Basso as he attempts to break out from an enclosed water tank while handcuffed.
HERO Südtirol Dolomites CEO and founder, Gerhard Vanzi, said “The HERO’s focus on sustainability isn’t circumscribed to the environment – they encompass society at large and focus on inclusivity.
“When we learnt about the story and mission of Obiettivo3’s athletes, we were profoundly inspired. Their journey is the result of their determination, talent, and indomitable will to overcome challenges – which perfectly embodies the HERO values we champion. We’re over the moon they accepted our proposal.”
The nine Obiettivo3 athletes will race outside the HERO event rankings on a ‘short race trail’, with 60km distance and 3,200m elevation. One of the athletes is visually impaired and will race with their guide, while three riders will participate as a relay team.
Barbara Manni Obiettivo3 Marketing & Communication Manager, said “For many of these people, practicing sports while living with their disability without adequate support or constant guidance when choosing their discipline, training or, even simply purchasing equipment is too demanding and demotivating.
“This is where we step in – we try to pass on curiosity, passion, and motivation as well as the necessary tools to get back in the game also thanks to sport. They then may very well aspire to achieve incredibly high goals – as proved by these nine athletes who, fully aware of the difficulties, asked to compete on their own or as part of a relay setup in the HERO Südtirol Dolomites.
“I’m sure their team spirit, heart, and courage will shine through. I’m also certain it will be a challenge, and all this will inspire those who watch them, showing them they can achieve great things even while living with a disability – truly embodying the values of Alex’s project.”
www.herodolomites.com
www.obiettivo3.com
