I’m so happy—yesterday, after a four-month break due to an injury, I finally regained my balance by doing what I love most: running.

I ran the Sciacche Trail in Monterosso al Mare, a fantastic place located in the heart of the Cinque Terre on some very unique terrain: steps, steps, and more steps; a technical, challenging, and physically demanding course—just what I needed for a great comeback.

I can’t describe how happy I am. I wanted to put all the doubts and fears that have haunted me these past few months to rest, and on Sunday I buried them all: “I can still do this,” I kept telling myself during the race. My adrenaline was through the roof; the more I ran and climbed, the more I realized that these past few months have made me even more eager and enthusiastic to appreciate the views, the trails, the people sharing the struggle with me, the volunteers at the aid stations, and the people along the course cheering you on. Goosebumps. Amazing.

When I saw the inflatable finish line in the distance, I cried and said to myself, “I did it.” My ankle held up perfectly—no pain, no discomfort—and I can’t wait to do it again!

I’d like to thank everyone who believed in me, my new team, Asso Pro Team and Asso Orobica, and my physical therapist, Stefano Punzo. “If you want to, you can…”

Of course, I wore Oxyburn “1250 Running” socks, the “Twenty One” tank top that protected me from the scorching heat, the “1510 Byon” arm sleeves, and the Oxybuff.

“What was my time? It doesn’t really matter, but if you really want to know: 7 hours, 4 minutes, 56 seconds; 63rd overall, 10th among women. I’m starting over from here!”

Graziana