Opinion – In the Race: Exclusive: São Paulo will have a stage of the Uphill circuit in 2023

The Uphill circuit is popular with runners looking for an extra dose of challenge. Held in mountainous regions of the country, the events cover medium and long distances in a topography, shall we say, challenging. The name itself is self-explanatory. In English, uphill means “uphill”. And that’s what runners do at these events. They climb some of the biggest pirambeiras in the country.

Uphill started in Serra do Rio do Rastro (SC) ten years ago. This remains the most emblematic race on the circuit. But the repercussion was such that, little by little, new events emerged. This year, the forecast is to have four stages, three of which have already taken place: Serra dos Órgãos (in RJ, in July), Rio do Rastro (in SC, in September) and Nova Friburgo (in RJ, in October). The closing of the circuit is scheduled for November, with a half-marathon on Corcovado. The event, which takes place in the afternoon, allows athletes to reach Christ the Redeemer at sunset. The effort is great, but let’s face it, the reward is worth it.

In an interview with SheetBernardo Fonseca, creator and organizer of the Uphill circuit, stated that the circuit will have six stages starting next year, and at least one of the races will take place in the State of São Paulo.

“We are going to grow Uphill organically. We have ten courses mapped out for the next few years. In 2023, the novelty is a race in Serra do Mar, between Baixada Santista and São Paulo”. The official route, which has not yet been announced, would pass through Estrada Velha de Santos, closed to vehicular traffic since 1992. The São Paulo race would open the Uphill calendar in March.

The sixth stage, not yet confirmed, should take place in Campos do Jordão (SP) or Serra do Piloto (RJ).