U.C.I.

Since the first 2003 edition in Lugano, the MTB Marathon World Championships quickly established their reputation to cycling world fans as one of the most appreciated out of all the disciplines that our sport offers each season.

Over the years this event has achieved a truly remarkable level of sporting quality, at the same time keeping its spirit of openness vis-à-vis the numerous supporters of this competition format.

What we are about to see here in this magnificent region of Veneto, where all cycling specialities are extremely popular and where each time we feel more at home, will undoubtedly be a very exciting race, which will take place in ideal conditions so that all the great world specialists can compete to the best of their ability.

The work carried out by the organisers has been remarkable in all areas, and thanks to their enthusiasm and competence, I am certain that the success of these World Championships is already guaranteed. I would like to congratulate them for their efforts which have enabled this fantastic adventure to come to life, to which the Italian public will most certainly give their warmest support.
 
This excellent organisation would not have been possible without the vital contribution of sports associations and local political authorities, sponsors and all the volunteers. On behalf of the UCI, today I have the greatest pleasure of thanking them for this splendid gift that they have given to us.

To conclude this brief message, I would also like to greet all the competitors of these 2011 UCI Marathon Mountain Bike World Championships. The race that awaits them will be very difficult and they will need your encouragement.
The best of luck to each and everyone of you!

Pat McQuaid
UCI President