Turin was a sea of violet as approximately 12,000 participants took part in the annual Deejay Ten running event on March 23, 2025, overcoming rainy forecasts to celebrate the first Sunday of spring. This colorful gathering, organized by Radio Deejay and initiated by the station's prominent figure Linus, showcased the city's enthusiasm for community events.
"The response from Turin has always been exceptional, even if the weather forecasts weren't promising," remarked Linus of Radio Deejay during the event. However, as the clouds seemed to part, participants took to the streets in high spirits.
With two distinct routes offered—a 10 km course for those over 16 years old and a 5 km family-friendly option—walkers and runners alike enjoyed the vibrant scenery of Turin, passing landmark sites like the Mole Antonelliana and the Gran Madre. This year, the route was slightly altered due to construction work on via Po, but it still captured the essence of the city's beauty.
The race commenced at 9 AM, with Linus launching it alongside the upbeat soundtrack of Bruce Springsteen's "Born To Run." For many, including families and teams of friends, the event was less about competition and more about enjoyment and the joy of shared experiences. Following the race, Linus exclaimed, "We even brought the sun!" as a triumphant celebration of community resilience.
Mimmo Carretta, the city’s Councillor for Big Events, praised the Deejay Ten for fostering an annual tradition that draws countless participants into the heart of Turin. “If the Deejay Ten continues to happen, it’s because you all have a great time,” he noted, echoing the sentiments of the crowd and the excitement shared among runners.
The presence of the Maratonabili, a group of athletes dedicated to pushing individuals with disabilities in wheelchairs, added to the event’s inclusive atmosphere. Their involvement, supported by ten bibs donated by Fondazione La Stampa - Specchio dei Tempi, highlighted the event's commitment to ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to participate and enjoy.
Among the runners, veteran competitors like Matteo Cafiero and Laura Restagno crossed the finish line first in their respective categories. Matteo shared, "Winning is a great satisfaction. Each time I run, I challenge my own time; I came close to my personal best this year!" Meanwhile, Laura noted how unique the races in Turin are, with spectators from within the competitors’ ranks cheering them on.
For many participants, including Alfio Druetta from Saluzzo, the Deejay Ten was an opportunity for team building. Operating an agribakery, he transformed the run into a family affair, bringing along employees and loved ones for a united experience. He conveyed, "At the Deejay Ten, it’s about being present, not the clock!"—a sentiment that resonated throughout the event.
Many colorful characters joined the race, including a participant dressed as Batman—Stefano Morgè, who shared his enthusiasm for the unifying spirit of the event despite battling a prior injury. His experience underscores the importance of events like the Deejay Ten in bringing together diverse groups in celebration of fitness and fun.
In its essence, the Deejay Ten transcends typical race day experiences, promoting social interaction among friends—from teenagers to seasoned athletes. Enzo Di Luca, one of the runners, described the group's camaraderie: "We listen to Radio Deejay, practice sports together, and above all, have fun!" Their commitment to an active lifestyle serves as an inspiration to the youth participating alongside them.
As the sun shone briefly between the clouds, the atmosphere of the Deejay Ten celebrated not only fitness but community engagement, resilience, and togetherness. The event drew audiences and participants from different backgrounds, proving the unifying power of sport even in the face of adversity.
With road closures and comprehensive security measures in place from early morning until noon, the city adjusted to ensure safety and enjoyment for all attendees. The Deejay Ten effectively utilized Turin's streets, maintaining a festive air while promoting the importance of health and wellness within the community.
As the day concluded, Linus left participants with a lingering sense of excitement, reminding everyone, "We’ll be back next year!" The Deejay Ten remains a testament to the vibrant spirit of Turin, where every step counts toward creating a lively, custodial culture of health and happiness.
