Found in 1972 by the journalist Fulvio Campiotti (from Il Corriere della Sera magazine), helped by Giovanni Copreni, Pre Njmegen - born as Prenimega – took inspiration from the “4 Days International March” in Nimega (Holland), every year organised by Dutch Real League for Physical Education.
Pre Njmegen peculiarity, that makes it unique in Italy and one of few in Europe , is to be a not competitive march promoted only by a sport decubertian mind. Since the beginning, the sporting event had the protection of the President of he Italian Republic.
The route crossed 14 municipalities, at the borderlines of Varese and Como provinces.
At the second edition Italian Military Departments took part too and during the years the number of participants grew up so much that they become an important pillar of the event. In the same edition there was the first organisation in civil groups, as AVIS one in Como.
In 1984 the alternative route was introduced before the 10 th km for the first time and after that date it was inserted before the 12 th one. The route was studied to promote the participation of very young guys, old people and handicaps and all they would like to be part of the event but believe the 43 km of traditional route a very big effort.
The military participation, only for Italian Department at the beginning, has extended to International Departments: Swiss, Austrians, Germans, Englishmen, Hungarians, French, and Romanians and N.A.T.O. agencies.
A lot of Charity Associations have helped Pre Njmegen responsibles during the first stage and during the march with the management of refreshment points and of kitchens in the arena. Cheering up the great public along the road and at the arrival was a task of different bands, military bands, folkroristic groups, horse military department, dog lovers groups.
Since 1984 rescue is guaranteed by A.N.P.A.S. Regione Lombardia with its partners. Since 1999 a route of 22 Km was introduced for half marathon lovers and since 2000 this march was named Pre Njmegen.
A warm thank of Pre Njmegen responsibles and all Malnate goes to all volunteers of medical care and of transport services, several hundred people during the years, all driven by a desire of honouring Pre Njmegen. A great thought goes to disappeared Fulvio Campiotti and Giovanni Copreni, together with a big thank for all Responsables succeed in the years.
