Wolfsburg, Germany, world headquarters of Volkswagen AG, is a sister city to both Chattanooga and to Fano, Italy, among others. Six years ago Wolfsburg invited each of its sister cities to send three participants to run in the Wolfsburger marathon. There the Chattanooga and the Fano delegations became acquainted. In the years following until the pandemic, both cities invited the other to send runners for their marathons, and friendships formed. Discussions began about a sister city partnership between Fano and Chattanooga.
Last week Fano's marathon committee invited the Scenic City to send up to seven runners for their ColleMarathon, considered one of the most challenging in Italy, which will occur on Sunday, May 8. Rooms in a hotel near the sea have been reserved and will be complementary for up to three days for Chattanoogans, and Fano will waive the registration fee.
Participants will be responsible for their own transportation to and from Fano and for most meals during their time there.
Fano is a charming medieval city due east of Florence on Italy's Adriatic coast. There are numerous sites of interest to tourists in the area.
Interested individuals should contact the Sister City Association of Chattanooga president at chatt.sister.city.pres@gmail.com for more details and to apply.