Trail The Elements Magazine, the magazine of Val d'Aran by UTMB®

MAGAZINE

TRAIL THE ELEMENTS

UTMB® WORLD SERIES PARTNERS

EVENT PARTNERS – VAL D ARAN BY UTMB®

INSTITUTIONAL SUPPORTS

Ajuntament de Naut Aran

Ajuntament de Bossòst

Ajuntament de Bossòst

4

TRIED, TRUSTED, AND A LITTLE BIT TWISTED MAFATE SPEED

Extreme traction for those who choose the toughest terrain

NUEVO DACIA DUSTER

Dacia, patrocinador oficial automovilístico de UTMB® World Series

Gama Duster: consumo mixto WLTP (l/100 km) 4,8 - 7,8. Emisiones WLTP CO2 (g/km) 125-142.

Dacia recomienda

SUMMARY EDITORIAL

P.10

UTMB® WORLD SERIES P.12

PROGRAMME

P.17

LA VAL D’ARAN

P.22

VDA P.26

CDH P.33

PDA P.40

EXP P.46

SKY P.51

ONLINE MONITORING P.57

EVENT APPS

P.58

WOMAN IN TRAIL

P.59

VAL D’ARAN IN FIGURES

P.61

THE “HIDDEN” SIDE OF VAL D’ARAN BY UTMB®

P.62

VOLUNTEERS P.64

SOME OF OUR ELITES!

P.67

ADDA P.70

ULTRA-TRAIL® VILLAGE

P.72

TRAIL FESTIVAL BAQUEIRA BERET

P.73

Val d’Aran by UTMB® is organised by UTMB® Group.

All technical specifications, programmes and conditions are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

Reproduction in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher UTMB® Iberia SLU is prohibited. The images are protected by copyright.

Photography team: Carlos Llerandi /Adri Martínez / Dani Martínez / José Miguel Muñoz / Sergi Colomé / Oriol Batista / Borja Iban / Marti Alonso.

Web: valdaran.utmb.world/es

Contact: valdaran@service.utmb.world

Facebook: Val d’Aran by UTMB®

Instagram: @aranbyutmb

Twitter: @aranbyutmb

Youtube: Val d’Aran by UTMB®

EDITORIAL

Dear friends, Welcome to the third edition of Val d’Aran by UTMB®. This exceptional event, held in the heart of the Spanish Pyrenees, marks a key moment for the UTMB® World Series as the only European Major in 2023.

It is the second time Val d’Aran by UTMB® will hold the Major status, positioning it as the pinnacle event in Europe and offering the opportunity for even more runners to qualify for the UTMB® World Series Finals.

Over the last three years, the event has grown into an international success, attracting runners from more than 70 different countries who come with their friends and family to discover a beautiful destination, wild nature, and exceptional landscapes. A nature lovers paradise, Val d’Aran’s unique climate, perpetual snow, exquisite gastronomy and strong cultural heritage are all ingrained in the events DNA guaranteeing a unique experience on the trails.

As well as being a huge sporting success, Val d’Aran by UTMB® has succeeded in becoming a platform to positively promote the region internationally, and it an example of the positive economic impact events can have on a territory, while always respecting the natural environment.

Respect for the environment and for others, fair-play and solidarity are the values on which the UTMB® World Series has been built. We are proud to partner with an event like Val d’Aran by UTMB® which embodies these values so closely.

We hope you, along with your friends and your family, will take this opportunity to explore the wonderful Val d’Aran region and all that it has to offer, and we look forward to sharing the adventure with you. We’d also like to take the chance to thank all the partners, public and volunteers whose involvement help guarantee the success of the event, and make the runners experience all the more memorable.

We wish you all an amazing experience on the Val d’Aran trails.

Catherine y Michel Poletti Co-Founders, UTMB® Group

EDITORIAL

In just three years of existence, Val d’Aran by UTMB ® has become the trail race with the most registered participants in Spain. But, with this environment, it is not surprising. Because all of you who have been on our starting lines to run through this incredible valley have told us so. “There is no other place like the Val d’Aran” .

And our aim, every time the bell stops ringing after 5 days of racing, is always the same: that next year will be even better. For those who dream to infinity and beyond, daring to face the hardness of the VDA, only suitable for the brave (or the unconscious), but also for those who want to live a great experience and risk falling in love with these mountains, with this wonderful sport that is trail running, and, perhaps, set their sights on future horizons such as the PDA or the CDH.

This 2023 we are incorporating a new distance, the EXP, Experiéncia d’Aran, 32 kilometres, with an exceptional route. On a Sunday. The perfect plan to experience Nature and close (or continue) a week that promises to generate great memories, the kind you never forget.

VDA, 163 km; CDH, 110 km; PDA, 55 km; EXP, 32 km; SKY and SKY Promesas, 15 km; TR2, 6 km in tribute to our volunteers, without whom Val d’Aran by UTMB ® would not be possible (thank you very much!); and, of course... our Trail Festival Baqueira Beret, because our kids also run, and we love to see them enjoy it!

Because in the Val d’Aran there are goals for everyone, and we all have our place.

Xavier Pocino Moga CEO de UTMB® Iberia

THIRD EDITION... AND WE WOULD NEVER HAVE IMAGINED IT WOULD BE LIKE THIS!

Uniting the sport’s biggest stars and amateur runners through the best, leading international events in the most stunning locations, the UTMB World Series gives all trail runners the chance to experience the UTMB adventure across the world, and gain access to the UTMB World Series Finals at the pinnacle UTMB Mont- Blanc.

THE WORLD’S ULTIMATE TRAIL-RUNNING CIRCUIT

FINALS

Celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year, the mythic UTMB Mont-Blanc is the world’s most well-known and revered trail running event on the globe. In the heart of the Alps, the prestigious UTMB World Series Finals is held in 3 categories: the OCC (50K), CCC(100K) and UTMB (100M) every year at the end of August in Chamonix, France.

MAJORS

Three UTMB World Series Majors, are held each year across the Americas, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Collect double the amount of Running Stones compared to other UTMB World Series Events for the UTMB World Series Finals lottery. In total 225 runners are also granted automatic qualification for the UTMB World Series Finals through each Major. This includes age-group category winners and the top 10 male and female runners in the 100M, 100K and 50K categories.

Get the UTMB experience closer to home. Built on a passion for the mountains with sustainability at its heart, UTMB World Series Events gives all trail runners the chance to experience the UTMB adventure at 35 events around the world. Begin your quest to UTMB Mont-Blanc and the UTMB World Series Finals.

DO YOU HAVE YOUR MY UTMB ACCOUNT ?

THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN SEE IT ALL.

EVENTS

CHECK

OUT AT:

MAJORS

RUNNING STONES

You can only collect Running Stones by finishing races in the 20K, 50K, 100K or 100M category at a UTMB World Series Event or UTMB World Series Major. Only 1 Running Stone acquired in the past two years is mandatory to enter the lottery. Running Stones are cumulative, have no expiration date, and each Running Stone gives you an additional chance to be drawn in the UTMB World Series Finals lottery.

UTMB® INDEX

The UTMB Index is calculated for each of the 4 UTMB World Series race categories: 20K, 50K,100k and 100M. Trail runners are also given a General UTMB Index calculated by combining results from all race categories. A valid UTMB Index is mandatory to enter the UTMB World Series Finals lottery, along with a minimum of 1 Running Stone.

- See your Running Stones count

- Check your UTMB Index

- View your race results

- Get detailed performance statistics

- See your upcoming race registrations

MADE IN BARCELONA

SUSTAINABLE HEADWEAR PRODUCED IN OUR HOME FACTORY

Today 90 percent of our neckwear, caps and knits are made in Barcelona - with the goal to take the full production home in the following years. Our ability to produce in-house allows greater control over both environmental and social standards and our facility is run by 100% renewable electricity.

For us – the protection of the planet is a lifelong commitment with the aim to do better every day.

Els Bunkers del Carmel, Barcelona

SCHEDULE

WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

10:00 – 22:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

10:00 – 21:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

17:00

Carrèr Major

Tredòs

19:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

THE DELIVERY OF BIBS FOR THE VDA, CDH, PDA, EXP AND SKY REQUIRES PREVIOUS APPOINTMENT

PDA bibs delivery

TR2 6 Km departure

Official Presentation and elite athletes

THURSDAY 6 JULY

Carrèr Arroduets

Salardú

10:00 – 21:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

10:00 – 22:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

Finish Area

Vielha

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

Finish Area

Vielha

PDA departure

VDA and CDH bibs delivery

Scheduled arrival first runner PDA

PDA Awards Ceremony

Scheduled arrival last runner PDA

FRIDAY 7 JULY 10:00 – 14:00 16:30 – 22:00

– 21:00 18:00

Plaça deth Haro Les

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

Finish Area

Vielha

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

Finish Area Vielha

CDH departure

VDA bibs delivery

VDA departure

SKY and EXP bibs delivery

Scheduled arrival first runner CDH

SATURDAY 8 JULY

Pla de Beret

10:00 – 21:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

– 15:00

Pla de Beret Pla de Beret Pla de Beret

10:00 – 21:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

10:30

Finish Area

11:15

Vielha Pla de Beret Pla de Beret Pla de Beret

15:00

Finish Area

Vielha

SKY and Trail Festival Baqueira Beret

bibs delivery

EXP bibs delivery

SKY PROMESAS departure

SKY MASTER departure

Trail Festival Baqueira Beret

Scheduled arrival last runner CDH

Scheduled arrival first runner SKY

SKY Awards Ceremony

Scheduled arrival last runner SKY

Scheduled arrival first runner VDA

SUNDAY 9 JULY

08:00

Passeg dera Libertat

Vielha EXP departure

10:00 – 14:00

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

10:30

Finish Area

Vielha

12:30

Ultra-Trail® Village

Av. Pas d’Arro

Vielha

15:40

Finish Area

Vielha

16:00

Finish Area

Vielha

Scheduled arrival first runner EXP

VDA, CDH, and EXP Awards Ceremony

Scheduled arrival last runner EXP

Scheduled arrival last runner VDA

This programme is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. #VALDARANBYUTMB | 2023

THE MOUNTAINS OF THE VAL D’ARAN, A DREAM FOR TRAIL RUNNING

An idyllic natural environment for running and climbing its beautiful peaks. Preserving its biodiversity is everyone’s responsibility.

Tredós

Shuttles to the CDH and PDA departures

UTMB-Bus at night:

Timetable: 22:00 - 8:00 hours

On Friday 7th and Saturday 8th, from 22h00 to 8h00, the bus stop will be moved to the Ultra-Trail Village.

DISTANCE 163 KM

D+ 10.000M

D10.000M

DEPARTURE FRIDAY 7 JULY 16:00 HOURS

Torn dera Val d’Aran means Tour around the Val d’Aran in Aranese, the local language. We like to dream big, so why not go all the way around the valley?

Air, fire, earth and water are the elements that you will find along the route. The geometric shapes of the race logo and its colour represent fire, so present in Aranese culture because of the Fire Festivities.

DEPARTURE VIELHA

ARRIVAL VIELHA

MAXIMUM RACE TIME 48 HOURS

FIRST RUNNER TIME FORECAST 23 HOURS

DOWNLOAD THE GPX OF THE TRACK

TRACK POINTS GUIDE - VDA

It is essential to bring a torch and warm clothes. Connection in Es Bòrdes by UTMB-BUS with Mountain Shuttle Artiga de Lin.

Assistance

Access by forest track.

It is essential to bring a torch and warm clothes. Connection in Arties by

Finish / Departure

Motorhome Parking Parking WC Hospital Bus Stop

Ultra-Trail Village

Runner Info / Tourist Info

Race bib pick-up

Official Store

Final aid station

Shuttles to the CDH and PDA departures

UTMB-Bus at night:

Timetable: 22:00 - 8:00 hours

On Friday 7th and Saturday 8th, from 22h00 to 8h00, the bus stop will be moved to the Ultra-Trail Village.

Showers

Palai d’Espòrts (only on race days)

Official Technology Sponsors, Val d'Aran by UTMB 2023

Alex, Freddie, Ed, Eric and V ktor, Cledara's 2022 PDA runners

Camins d’Hèr means Iron Roads in Aranese, the local language. The Valley’s old mining past comes to the fore in this spectacular race, where you will cross tunnels and abandoned mines at the foot of the imposing Mauberme.

The ochre colour of the logo, and the geometric shapes representing nuts, pay homage to our roots, to the earth.

DISTANCE 110 KM

D+ 6.400M D6.050M

DEPARTURE FRIDAY 7 JULY 06:00 HOURS

#VALDARANBYUTMB | 2023

DEPARTURE LES ARRIVAL VIELHA

MAXIMUM RACE TIME 26 HOURS

FIRST RUNNER TIME FORECAST 12 HOURS

PROFILE

DOWNLOAD THE GPX OF THE TRACK

TRACK POINTS GUIDE - CDH

Restricted vehicle access from 6:00 to 10:00.

Restricted vehicle access from 6:00 to 10:00.

Access by forest track. Compulsory 4x4.

Assistance allowed VDA and CDH.

Connection in Arties by UTMB-BUS with Mountain Shuttle Banhs de Tredòs.

AROUND LES

GO TO THE DEPARTURE IN LES

CDH runners will be provided with free transport to the START line in Le s. The free transport ticket will be accredited with the bib and wristband. It is necessary to reserve a place on the bus during the month of May and until 18 June.

FROM

The main villages of the Val d’Aran. UTMBBus line stops.

HOW UTMB-Bus.

SCHEDULES

Departure times will be confirmed prior to the race.

RESERVE

It is essential to reserve your place on the registration platform and indicate the departure stop.

TWO-WAVE DEPARTURE

1st: 06:00 hours.

2nd: 06:30 hours.

The runner will be informed of the wave that corresponds to him/her prior to the departure.

Peades d’Aigua means Water Footsteps in Aranese, the local language. One of the most impressive parts of this route is its passage through Colomèrs, the largest cirque of glacial lakes in the Pyrenees.

On this fast and demanding race, you will pass over more than 20 lakes and the ancient thermal baths already known to the Romans: Banhs de Tredòs. The colour and shapes of the logo refer to the predominant element of this route: water.

D+ 3.300M D3.700M

DISTANCE 55 KM DEPARTURE SALARDÚ

VIELHA

MAXIMUM RACE TIME 14 HOURS

FIRST RUNNER TIME FORECAST 05:30 HOURS

DEPARTURE THURSDAY 6 JULY 07:00 #VALDARANBYUTMB | 2023

DOWNLOAD THE GPX OF THE TRACK

TRACK POINTS GUIDE - PDA

Assistance to runners on the PDA is not allowed.

It

SALARDÚ

GO TO THE DEPARTURE IN SALARDÚ

PDA runners will be provided with free transport to the START line in Salardú. Companions may purchase the PDA Ticket to access the start line and follow the race. It is recommended to use the UTMB-Bus as the town of Salardú does not have enough parking spaces for private vehicles. Those who decide to go by private vehicle (not recommended) may park in the Baqueira 1,500 car park. Shuttles will be available from 6:00 to 8:30 a.m. to transport runners and companions, and to take the companions back to their vehicles.

It is necessary to reserve a place on the bus during the month of May and until 18 June.

FROM

The main villages of the Val d’Aran. UTMBDA-Bus line stops.

HOW

UTMB-Bus.

SCHEDULES

Start times will be confirmed prior to the race.

RESERVE

It is essential to reserve your place on the registration platform and indicate the departure stop.

COMPANIONS

Companions will be able to purchase the PDA Ticket to access the departure in Salardú and follow the race. This ticket will be valid only on Thursday 6 July.

1st: 07:00 hours.

2nd: 07:30 hours.

3rd: 08:00 hours.

The departures will be organised according to the UTMB® Index of each runner. Runners who do not have a UTMB® Index will start the race in the last wave.

The runner will be informed of the wave that corresponds to him/her prior to the start.

THREE-WAVE DEPARTURE

Experiéncia d’Aran is a race for middle-distance runners, or for those who want to get started in the world of trail running, that has been created with the aim of encouraging participation in long-distance races.

A circular route with about 2,100 metres of positive height gain, starting and finishing in Vielha. A circuit that passes through some of the best sections of the valley, in just 32 kilometres.

DISTANCE 32 KM

D+ 2.100M

D2.100M

DEPARTURE

SUNDAY 9 JULY 08:00

#VALDARANBYUTMB | 2023

MAXIMUM RACE TIME 07:45 HOURS

FIRST RUNNER TIME FORECAST 02:30 HOURS

DOWNLOAD THE GPX OF THE TRACK

Runner

Final

SKY Baqueira Beret, an ideal race to enjoy the views of the whole valley and the majesty of the roof of the Pyrenees, running along high mountain trails.

The little sister of the races, and the fourth element: air. Thanks to this aerial route you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley and the Baqueira Beret ski resort.

DISTANCE 15 KM

D+ 800M

D800M

DEPARTURE SATURDAY 8 JULY 09:30 A.M.

DEPARTURE BERET

ARRIVAL BERET

MAXIMUM RACE TIME 04:00 HOURS

FIRST RUNNER TIME FORECAST 01:15 HOURS

#VALDARANBYUTMB | 2023

DOWNLOAD THE GPX OF THE TRACK

AROUND BERET

GO TO THE DEPARTURE IN BERET

Runners and companions of the SKY race can purchase the SKY Ticket to go to the START line in Beret from the different villages of the valley (see transport information) and return once the race is over.

FROM

The main villages of the Val d’Aran. UTMBDA-Bus line stops.

HOW UTMB-Bus.

SCHEDULES

Start times will be confirmed prior to the race.

RESERVE

It is essential to reserve your place on the registration platform and indicate the departure stop.

Vielha BAQUEIRA

Baqueira C-28

Sector Beret

SECTOR BERET

RESOLE YOUR SHOES WITH VIBRAM, HIGH PERFORMANCE RUBBER SOLES.

BECOME A TESTER

VIBRAM.TESTERPLACE.COM

All the information you need to follow, support and immerse yourself in the event on a single application

Main features :

Find and follow a runner : Follow an event :

Access general event information, follow your family or friends live or relive a past event.

The runner’s digital swiss army knife! Optimize your race management, stay connected with your friends participating in the same race, and share your adventure with your loved ones

Main features:

Follow the progress of a runner in detail including their speed, last point of passage, the estimated arrival at their next point of passage and find their videos (if option LiveCam).

Orientate yourself around the course : Create a specific roadbook :

View all the routes including the time barriers and utilize the GPS navigation to find waypoints.

Make a favorites list :

Select multiple runners to follow and keep up to date on their progress through automatic notifications.

To assist a group, enter your list of favorites, configure the waypoints where you want to see all the runners and the application will do the rest of the work according to your journey times.

Safety during the race : Ghost Runner :

Report your abandonment, send an SOS or call the Race Direction.

Set up a ghost runner based on your ITRA ranking or time goal and receive notifications to let you know if you’re on track.

Sharing on social networks :

Find out the next important waypoints with the estimated time to get there.

Landmarks on the course : Follow your friends :

For friends on the same race, follow them to know if you are in front or behind, and by how long. For those on another race, keep up to date their progress without changing the app

Share your race progress on your social networks in one click to updatr your friends. Also share your personalized certificate at the end of the race.

GPS tracking (premium service offered this year) :

Use your smartphone as a GPS beacon to send information directly to your runner file on the live tracking site.

WOMAN IN TRAIL

Woman in Trail is the Val d’Aran by UTMB® program to promote the participation of women in trail running. In 2022 it held its first edition, in which Maldito Running, with personalized training, and Transvia Sport, with travel planning, combined synergies to make women’s strides in the mountains more visible. This year they return to the Val d’Aran to run again the SKY, and live a week of sport, culture, gastronomy, and many other unforgettable experiences.

“It seemed a long way off, but it is happening. Women are increasingly present in the mountains, but we have to keep working to increase the numbers, break down the stigmas, and convince ourselves that we can do it, we deserve it, and we are capable. Three concepts that fit perfectly into the Woman in Trail program, promoted by Val d’Aran by UTMB®, and supported by Maldito Running and Transvia Sport, to create a complete trail running experience, with culture, leisure and gastronomy, in a unique setting, the mountains of the Val d’Aran.

WOMAN AND MOUNTAIN: THE PERFECT COMBINATION

In 2022 we carried out the first edition of the Woman in Trail program, with more than a dozen women who put aside their fears to face the 15 kilometers of the SKY Baqueira Beret, being for many of them their first time in trail running. From Maldito Running we accompanied them for several months with personalized training sessions so that they would be more than ready for the starting line, and Transvia Sport focused its work on putting together a complete weekend with excursions around the area, typical Aranese gastronomy, talks on nutrition, and everything necessary so that all we had to worry about was running and enjoying ourselves. And the experience could not have been better: they all conquered the finish line, they proved that they could do it, and Val d’Aran by UTMB® served as a springboard for them to continue their commitment to trail running.

THE

Studies show that women have a greater capacity for endurance than men, which is why the trail and the Val d’Aran by UTMB® events are the perfect place to put on their running shoes. And for this reason, from Maldito Running we will continue to motivate women to dare and grow in the sport. Whether they are making their debut or getting into long distance running.

Woman in Trail was born to stay and grow. To encourage, to give confidence, and to support the female sector that continues to grow in the world of trail running. To create experiences, motivate and encourage the group as a base, without forgetting anyone.

The mountain is an incredible setting to achieve challenges, whatever they may be, with the sole objective that women increasingly take the initiative and become the true protagonists of history”.

Erica Sánchez, founder of Maldito Running with Bibi Zaragoza

One day I swapped the sofa for running shoes and nothing was ever the same again. Running transformed everything and became my best ally. I stopped setting limits for myself. Sport as my best escape valve. Running as the engine that drives my change.

FIGURES FOR FEMALE PARTICIPATION IN THE MOUNTAINS ARE AROUND 14 PER CENT AND THIS IS SOMETHING THAT WE MUST CHANGE WITH SPECIFIC PROJECTS LIKE THIS, CHANGE TO INCREASE THIS PARTICIPATION

VAL D’ARAN BY UTMB® IN FIGURES COUNTRIES

Nº OF REGISTERED RUNNERS

5.350 RUNNERS

TOP 10 82

COUNTRIES IN ORDER SPAIN

FRANCE

PORTUGAL

GREAT BRITAIN

BELGIUM

BRAZIL

UNITED STATES

ARGENTINA

CHINA

JAPAN

PARTICIPANTS BY GENDER

AGE OF THE PARTICIPANTS

41 YEARS

AVERAGE OVERALL AGE

VDA: 44 años

CDH: 42 años

PDA: 41 años

EXP: 40 años

SKY: 39 años

Overall average age of women:: 40 years old

Oldest runner: 73-year-old Algerian woman in the CDH.

Youngest runner (excluding SKY Promesas): 19 year old Spanish male in EXP.

THE “HIDDEN” SIDE OF VAL D’ARAN BY UTMB®

More than 5,300 runners, around 225 kilometers of routes, 72 hours of running, and two nights in the mountains.

Val d’Aran by UTMB® opens its doors on Wednesday 5th July, with the inauguration of the Ultra-Trail® Village, the collection of bibs, the TR2, our volunteer race in the beautiful village of Tredós, and the official presentation of the event, with the elite athletes who will compete to be the first to ring the now iconic bell located at the finish arch.

Nerves, joy, enthusiasm, excitement, and a great desire to have a good time and enjoy themselves... But for all this to happen, from the first start, the PDA, on Thursday at 7 am in Salardú, a team of 17 people will not leave the space designed for them until Sunday at 4 pm, when the last runner of the VDA, the 163-kilometre race, arrives. This is the “hidden face” of Val d’Aran by UTMB®, who watch over the safety of each of our runners, and even their companions and the general public.

The CECOR (Race Coordination Centre) is made up of members of the organisation of the event, doctors, firemen, Mossos d’Esquadra, and a team dedicated to the management of the race and communications. They are watching everyone, and each and every participant in the event. On the screen in the centre of the room, coloured lights flash on the map of the valley. Each one of them is an athlete.

Ferrán Calvet, executive director of the race, and Joan Vila, technical director, in charge of more than 80 people, oversee all the operations of the event: radio and satellite communication, fire brigade, mossos, volunteers, transport, and many other tasks. Alongside them is Salvador Sarrá, medical director of the Hospital de Cerdanya, Chief Medical Officer of Val d’Aran by UTMB®, who coordinates a team of 30 people, including doctors and nurses, who are spread throughout the valley, ready to provide immediate assistance in the event of any incident.

With the Livetrail software, they track each runner and predict their time at each point. If the athlete is late in arriving, alert systems are activated: they call him if they see that he is not arriving; if he does not answer, they contact the participants around him; and if they still cannot locate him, they send the members of the mountain team to find him.

Four intense days that, however, start much earlier, just after the end of the previous edition, with a clear objective: that each runner enjoys a great experience. But for that to happen, there is a lot of work behind, not only during the event, but throughout all the year. Because reaching the finish line is never easy, even if the journey is an incredible spectacle.

GROWING IN GENEROSITY

Because they are the ones who best represent it, and every year there are more and more. Because... what would we do without our volunteers? More than 450 people who, edition after edition, leave everything for a few days to get lost in the mountains of the Val d’Aran and take on different tasks such as race referee, aid stations, timing, marking and routes, emergency services, delivery of race bibs, or runner’s bags management, among many others.

Excitement, joy, but also effort and sacrifice. And of course, that unconditional support without which many runners would not be able to reach the finish line.

A WHOLE ADVENTURE BASED ON SOLIDARITY,

AND HELP.

Inma Caubet has been part of the medical team of Val d’Aran by UTMB® since its first edition in 2021. For her this is “an opportunity to be able to participate in a mountain event, on a world scale, and moreover, at home”. The best thing? “To share experiences and knowledge with other colleagues and to have an active and appropriate contact with the

runners”. However, in an event like this, there are always challenges to be faced, such as “having to help some runners make the decision to give up the finish line despite missing a tenth of the race”. But he will never forget those nights in the mountains, “the stars in the sky, the fireflies... I would recommend other people to become volunteers in sporting events like this because it is a way of transmitting our love for the mountains and, more specifically, for the Val d’Aran”.

Jordi Sala carries out multiple tasks in Val d’Aran by UTMB®. He starts the week delivering bibs, but he also manages the runner’s bags, he is at the aid stations, helps with transport, with the timing and the medal ceremony. “The best thing about being part of this type of event is the feeling of helping out, giving the runners a sense of companionship, and motivating them during the hard moments of the race. I like being able to follow the runners from the start: at the bibs, during the race, at the aid stations, and at the finish line, handing out medals”.

GENEROSITY

Jordi decided to participate as a volunteer in Val d’Aran by UTMB® because he felt it was “a new challenge, a new race, in a special place. As a person who has been in the world of volunteering for many years, I can say that the experience has been very enriching, very well organised, with many facilities, and I am looking forward to repeating it”.

For him, being part of a team that makes Val d’Aran by UTMB® a reality makes him feel “very proud, very happy, and eager to do my bit in a race that will undoubtedly be one of the most important in the world”.

One of his most special memories? “The bond and friendship that has been created with the rest of the volunteers at the Pas Estret aid station in the 2022 edition”.

Pau Bravo, head of the Banhs de Tredòs aid station, is also one of the first members of the Val d’Aran by UTMB® family. In his case, he was encouraged to take part in this adventure because he knew that it was a “great opportunity to offer this event to the privileged territory that we have, and to make it known abroad”.

For him, the best thing about interacting with the runners and other volunteers throughout the week is “to greet the runners with a smile, to applaud them, and to give them all the help possible in the difficult moments they are going through. As for the volunteers, we have a great team. We already know each other, and we work in a very coordinated way, and the atmosphere among us couldn’t be better”.

Pau has no hesitation in recommending this experience “to everyone who wants to and can participate, regardless of age or gender. If you’re from the area, you do it for the Val d’Aran, and if you’re not, you have time to discover it in depth when you’re not busy”. For him, his best memory is the passage of the runners of the longer distances, “because they stop for a longer time to recover, and you can chat and encourage them better”.

Judith Sala will never forget “the hug that a runner gave me when she reached the finish line of the VDA and I gave her the medal, after 42 hours. I had already given her supplies and encouragement in the high mountains, more or less halfway through the race, and she was very excited to have arrived, to see me there too... She was crying and kept saying ‘thank you’... That’s very moving”.

She also hands out race bibs, manages runner’s bags, and helps with transport, aid stations, timing and medals. “For me it is a very enriching experience. It allows you to get to know and participate from the inside in a sport that, in my case, I really like, follow and practice, although without competing, just because I like running in the mountains. Besides, all the volunteers always generate a very nice atmosphere among us. We do it because we like it, which makes our work very appreciated. I have already volunteered in several races, and I do it again because it is a very enriching experience”.

One of the biggest challenges she had to face was “setting up and taking responsibility, together with my partner, for a high mountain aid station where two races, the VDA and the CDH, were passing through. It was two days almost without sleep, where many things happened to us, but all of them were overcome thanks to the effort of the whole group of volunteers”.

However, Judith already knew some of the runners from previous races. “You make friends with them; they are happy to see you and they remember you a lot because you have cheered them up or helped them. Generally, it’s very nice to interact with them because often the circumstances are tough, they arrive tired and demotivated, and you have to be there for them and help them. I have met runners in places that have nothing to do with the races and they have recognised me because at one point I filled their bottles or gave them a piece of omelette.... Incredible!

He also admits to having made many friends with whom he keeps in touch throughout the year. “The circumstances, sometimes complicated at certain aid stations, and living together for hours and days at a time, makes the group of volunteers become a team and we all go together as one, it’s very nice to share it”, she says.

She has only words of thanks. “I love this world, this sport, the mountains, and to be able to take part and collaborate so that an event like this can take place... it’s really fulfilling. As long as I can, I will continue to volunteer, and I want to encourage people to participate. I think we are an important part of these events and the reward for this work is well worth it”.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE PART OF VAL D’ARAN BY UTMB®?

SOME OF OUR ELITES!

“I am happy to be able to take part in one of the most important races, not only nationally but also internationally, and to be able to measure myself against the best runners, after the World Championships, to know how we are before UTMB®”.

Azara García de los Salmones , CDH runner

“Val d’Aran is a race that I have never done, but I know the area and it is a beautiful place that I think will not disappoint me. This year I will race there to get a place for the CCC®, so I will be fighting for a top 10 that will give me a springboard”.

Manuel Merillas , PDA rider

“Running in Val d’Aran, a UTMB® Major, is very special. Being able to take part in such an important race in our mountains doesn’t happen every day. I’ve wanted to take part for years but, due to the calendar or injury, I haven’t been able to. This time I hope not to miss it. It is a competition of a very high level and to be able to be at the start, after a very complicated year for me, is very exciting”..

Anna Comet , PDA runner

“For me being at the start line of Val d’Aran by UTMB® means:

- Respect for the most important European race of the UTMB® World Series.

- Respect and excitement because it is a race which is outside my usual distances.

- Illusion to run at home and to be able to enjoy the encouragement of those closest to me.

- And motivation to achieve a great result”.

Eduard Hernández , PDA runner

“I feel lucky to have the Pyrenees close to home, valleys as beautiful as the Val d’Aran, and a very important race, with such a high level of participation, organised by friends... I couldn’t miss the appointment to spend a few fantastic days!”.

Maite Maiora , CDH runner

“Participating in Val d’Aran by UTMB® is a perfect excuse to enjoy the privileged surroundings of the Val d’Aran. The valley, which is a wonderful place for trail running, and the level of organization, make Val d’Aran by UTMB® an unmissable event. Besides, I am not a mountaineer. The mountains give me a lot of respect and, probably, on my own I would not dare to run through some of the wonderful areas that I can enjoy in this event with the support and backing of a great organisation”..

Pablo Villalobos , CDH runner

“Running Val d’Aran by UTMB® means enjoying the mountains again, the competition, the atmosphere, setting myself challenges, training to get to the race as well as possible, but, above all, it means going back to doing what I like, what makes me happy, and what better place than in the Val d’Aran, an area I have always wanted to visit!”.

Eli Gordon , PDA runner

“For me and my brother Bernard it’s our first time in Val d’Aran and we are very excited. It will be a great pleasure to race and compete in this wonderful place. We love all the mountains, and the Pyrenees is one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world. We can’t wait to race in the Val d’Aran and discover another beautiful part of the world”.

Martin Dematteis , PDA runner

“For me Val d’Aran by UTMB® is a unique race where you can find all kinds of terrain. The valley itself is brutal, with idyllic landscapes, and we are very lucky that one of the most beautiful Majors is held in our country!”. .

Claudia Tremps , CDH runner

“Without a doubt, the Val d’Aran is one of the most spectacular places you can visit. In addition, the race, in my case the CDH, allows you to enjoy the most beautiful places in this paradise in just one day”.

Aritz Egea , CDH runner

“I’m really looking forward to participating in one of the most important races in Europe. I like to discover new places by running. To feel the nature and the environment while competing is something unique. The combination of very high-level athletes, a professional organisation, and a majestic natural landscape is what motivated me to sign up for the challenge of Val d’Aran by UTMB®.

For me Val d’Aran will be a perfect race to prepare me for the big objective of this season, UTMB® Chamonix. I’m also looking forward to going with my wife, who is running the CDH. What better way to spend a romantic trip than taking part in a great long-distance race!.”

Tobias Dahl Fenre , CDH runner

“I’m very excited to be back after having finished on the podium in the last two editions, both in the VDA and in the PDA. The CDH is the race I have yet to do. The place is spectacular, the atmosphere too, and for me it’s a race that makes me feel at home”.

Ionel Cristian Manole , CDH runner

“For me, running in the Val d’Aran is very special because it means running in the wildest part of the Pyrenees. During my sporting career there are many training sessions and challenges that I have carried out in this place, I have done it alone or in company, and it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on our planet”.

“Val d´Aran means a lot to me because it will be my longest run ever. I hope I will qualify there for the CCC, and I am really looking forward to exploring beautiful areas and mountains, because I have never been in that area before in the summer, only in the winter. I am sure it will be a stunning race with a lot of memories”.

Núria Picas , CDH runner

Peter Frano , CDH runner

THE ADDA AND VAL D’ARAN BY UTMB® DREAM TEAM

They have been part of the Val d’Aran by UTMB® family since our first edition. For months they prepare the marking of the different routes of each race, work on the trophies, and make beautiful magnets with which to remember a marvelous experience.

For Val d’Aran by UTMB® it is a real gift to be able to count on the enthusiasm, energy, and collaboration of ADDA, the Aran Association for the Disabled, without whom this event would not be possible.

WITH THEM WE ARE... THE PERFECT TEAM!

“We are grateful for commissions such as those of Val d’Aran by UTMB® which help us to make the abilities of these people visible and to showcase their work. In addition, they all make a great effort to offer quality products.

Val d’Aran by UTMB® has entrusted us to carry out different marking tasks which are a challenge to overcome for people with disabilities. For the production of our own clay products, such as magnets or trophies, we have the support of Carme Vicens, a ceramist who has been our companion for more than 10 years and who makes possible the magic of converting clay into pieces of art. Commissions like these bring us closer to

Asún Carrión, Teresa Lorente and Dolors Berdié , members of the Talhèr Ocupacionau ADDA

AND WHAT DO THEY THINK?

“We have been collaborating with Val d’Aran by UTMB® for 3 years now, and I hope there will be many more! “.

Patricia Pose

“My sister is one of the Val d’Aran by UTMB® runners. I like to think that my work helps her and other runners”.

Javier Santamaría

“Preparing the ribbons so that they can be seen at night is what I like the most. Putting reflective material so that the runners can find their way around at night”.

Oriol Mora

“Every Monday morning we work with clay to make many pieces. We all work together”.

Montse Bares

“We prepare material to mark the paths so that no runner gets lost”.

Tania Pérez

“Every year I like this kind of work more and more and I find it easier and easier”.

José María Vidal

“This year the magnets are in the shape of a bell like the one the runners ring when they arrive, we hope they like them as much as we do! “.

Sofia Cuito

“I feel good when I work and help the Val d’Aran by UTMB® volunteers”.

Manuel Fernández

“It’s fun to make the trail markers. The poles are difficult, but we have made more than 5,000 units. In addition, the material that we prepare at ADDA travels around the world in the UTMB® races. The flags that we made with my partner Jose have gone all the way to La Palma”.

David Canabal

“We work for months to have the trophies and magnets”.

Pilar Coyo

“You will have more than 500 magnets made in our workshop. Working in the workshop is one of my favourite activities at the occupational centre”.

Alfredo Faure

ULTRA-TRAIL® VILLAGE

In Vielha, from 5 to 9 July, the Ultra-Trail® Village will be set up, a fair where all the most important outdoor brands will be represented. Activities, concerts and other attractions will create a festive atmosphere where you can share your passion for trail running and get to know the world of running in general. More than 15,000 people are expected at this fair held in the epicentre of Vielha, just a few metres from the finish line.

It will be a space composed of wooden exhibition booths where interaction between the main players in the world of sport will be the main feature:

• The different brands will get to know the motivations of the runners.

• Runners will discover new products on the market.

• The different sports event organisers will have the opportunity to show their races to the world.

Don’t miss the experience of walking through the streets of Vielha sharing experiences with runners, companions and visitors in general from more than 80 countries.

DATE

FROM WEDNESDAY 5 JULY TO SUNDAY 9 JULY

TIME 10-21 hours

TRAIL FESTIVAL BAQUEIRA BERET

The Trail Festival Baqueira Beret, an outdoor festival dedicated to families and companions, will be held during all the morning, on Saturday 8 July, organized by Baqueira Beret ski resort.

During all day we will be able to encourage and enjoy the pass of VDA 163km runners who will already carry 100km on their legs. Pla de Beret is an aid station and life base with tolerated assistance.

The Trail Festival Baqueira Beret consists in:

• CHILDREN’S RACES.

Races for the little ones, from 4 to 12 years old. The races, which will take place from 12:00 to 13:00, are free, not timed, and without classification, and will start every 15 minutes. The young runners will receive a medal at the end. There will also be a small aid station. Registration and bibs delivery at Pla de Beret on Saturday from 9 a.m. (Bibs while stocks last).

• KIDS TRAIL FUNZONE.

Childcare service from 8:30 to 14:00 hours for children aged between 4 and 10 years old. The little ones will be able to enjoy a variety of activities: craft workshops, painting, games, inflatables, among many others. Are you going to run the SKY Baqueira Beret 15km? Leave your little one in the hands of professionals, and go out to run and enjoy!

All morning: 18 euros.

Packs of 2 hours: 10 euros.

• CORSA DES SANGLIÈRS 5KM.

A 5km route through the Pla de Beret for future ultra runners aged between 12 and 16. It is a non-timed race without classification. It will start at 10:30 am. Runners will receive a medal at the end of the race and will also have a small aid station to recharge their batteries. Registration and bibs delivery at Pla de Beret on Saturday from 9am. Price: 5 euros (bibs while stocks last).

• SKY BAQUEIRA BERET 15KM.

This race is open to the general public from 16 years of age and up. A 15km race of 800m D+ that starts at Pla de Beret and climbs up to Cap des Clòsos, Tuc de Costarjàs and Blanhiblar. It is a timed race with classification. At the end of the race there will be a small aid station. Bibs will be handed in on Friday 7 July from 16:30 to 22:00 at the Ultra-Trail® Village (Av. Pas d’Arro - Vielha), and on Saturday 8 July from 8:00 to 9:00 at the Pla de Beret. Registrations are closed. The Awards Ceremony will take place the same Saturday at 13:00.

Prior reservation is required to pick up your bib.

PLACE Pla de Beret

DATE Saturday 8 July

TIME 08-15 hours