At the end of August, it’s always the same dilemma: UTMB or Grand Raid des Pyrénées? If the second option is the least publicized, it has nothing to envy the world summit of trail, you'll see!
What you'll find there:
• Trails of 40 to 160 km and between 2,400 and 10,000 m of D+ to do solo or in relays;
• Crazy landscapes (surely the most beautiful in the Pyrenees) as well as exceptional fauna and flora. We apologize to the marmots for stopping by!
• A volunteer team on the ball.
Course focus:
Organized every year at the end of the summer, the Grand Raid des Pyrénées brings together nearly 7,000 participants in 8 races that are as challenging as they are magnificent. It is an event on a human scale, which has managed to keep the charm and authenticity of its beginnings despite its growing popularity. As for the course, the choice is really tough… but know that whatever your race, you are going to sweat a lot. The organizers insist on the technicality of the courses and the importance of solid preparation. There you have it, you have been warned.
As for the panoramas, you are going to be amazed. Néouville Massif, Aure and Gaves Valleys, Pic du Midi de Bigorre, Muraille de Barroude and Cirque de Gavarnie… remember to watch where you put your feet so you don’t fall into a ravine!
3 (very) good reasons to participate:
• A race that has preserved its original spirit;
• The possibility of observing ibex and chamois (OK, with a bit of luck);
• An excellent alternative to the UTMB if you weren’t drawn in the lottery!