Ultra Pirineu

Supported by Kilian Jornet

Ultimate Guide to the Ultra Pirineu Race

The Ultra Pirineu is an international running competition in Bagà, Spain, which takes place between September and October every year. Commonly known as the queen race, The Ultra Pirineu is a 100km distance race with a 6.600m of positive elevation. Here is more about the race.

About the Race

The race allows the runners to cross through some of the most iconic and beautiful high mountain sections of the Parc Natural del Cadí Moixeró. This is among the reasons why it is the most demanding and global race attracting hundreds of participants from more than 50 countries.

Since its inception in 2009, the race has been happening yearly (except in 2020 when the world was struck by Covid-19 that barred public gatherings). It brings together hundreds of people from different countries to conquer Ultra Pirineu's terrain.

Modalities

The race has four modalities. It all depends on the distance that a runner can cover. However, to be eligible, you must register using the right channels and fulfill the requirements as stipulated. Here are the four race modalities that start between late September and early October.

NIT Pirineu

The 5km race with an elevation of 860m+ starts from La Molina.

Ultra Pirineu

The race is 100km with an elevation of 6600m + and starts from Bagà. The race has 11 aid stations and a cap of 1000 participants.

Marató Pirineu

The 42km race has an elevation of 2800m+ and starts from Baga. It has four aid stations and the organizers limit the number of participants to 1,000 runners.

Mitja Pirineu

The race starts from Bagà and consists of 21km with an elevation of 1450m+. The race has three aid stations and it is capped at 600 participants.

Route & Stages

The Ultra Pirineu race has become the world's biggest and toughest mountain running competition. It's a test of runners' mettle, character, and spirit of camaraderie. The race will allow you to enjoy views from the slopes and high points of Spain's most beautiful mountains.

With four different races, the stages depend on the particular race. For example, the Ultra Pirineu 100km race stages will be further from the 21km or the 42km race stages. While eleven aid stations are available, participants must carry some water as the aids can be a little stretched from one to another. In addition, participants must communicate in good time, so the organizers know their dietary requirements and allergies beforehand. Here is a quick overview of the stages participants can expect for the 100km race.

Winners

Since its inception, the race has had many winners in both the men's and women's categories. Some have been consistent names that have won the title more than once. Here are a few you will find in Ultra Pirineu's winners' lists:

NNormal team

This year we had the pleasure of seeing Emilie Forsberg of the NNormal team run in the Ultra Pirineu, achieving a third position (4:21:13) which adds to her record.