Ultra-Trail® World Tour | Coronavirus COVID-19 Update

The world of ultra-endurance sports has not been spared from the wide-reaching impacts of the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. The Ultra-Trail® World Tour, an esteemed series of ultramarathon trail running events, has seen significant schedule disruptions as the international community grapples with the health crisis.

Adjustments to the Ultra-Trail® World Tour Calendar

With the safety and health of runners, staff, and volunteers as the foremost priority, event organizers across the globe have been working tirelessly to respond to the ongoing pandemic. Here’s the latest on how the World Tour schedule has adapted:

May 2020 Calendar Updates

The North Face® 100 Australia, typically set in a time window brimming with autumnal beauty, has been met with uncertainty. Participants are awaiting guidance as to whether the rugged tracks and wild landscapes of Australia will host this prestigious event in May.

Summer Events on Standby

Italy's The North Face® Lavaredo Ultra-Trail®, the historic Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run in the USA, and Switzerland’s Eiger Ultra-Trail® are key races faced with the complex decision of whether to proceed. The infectious nature of COVID-19 could mean alternate plans for these summer classics.

Looking Toward Late Summer and Autumn

The crown jewel of the series, the Ultra-Trail® du Mont-Blanc® which spans France, Italy, and Switzerland, along with Japan’s Ultra-Trail® Mt.Fuji® and La Diagonale des Fous in La Reúnion, France, have participants marking their calendars cautiously.

Impact on Athletes and Race Preparations

The rippling effect of the coronavirus on training routines and mental preparation has been profound. Runners around the world have had to adjust their regimens, often embracing solitary and indoor workouts to maintain their competitive edge for when races return.

Reflections on Past Races and Anticipation for the Future

While the pandemic has cast a shadow on upcoming events, the trail running community looks back with fondness at past races. Vibrant memories of the Vibram® Hong Kong 100, the Tarawera Ultramarathon in New Zealand, and races in Spain, Morocco, and Portugal bolster the spirit of athletes during this time of uncertainty and hopefulness for the return of these awe-inspiring events.

The Continued Allure of Trail Running and Travel

As globe-trotting runners anticipate the day they can once again explore remote trails and push their limits, they also look forward to reconnecting with the diverse cultures and warm hospitality found in the various host destinations. The innate bond between trail running events and the exploration of new terrains ensures that once it is safe to travel again, the world of ultra-trail running will experience a renaissance, with hotels in scenic locales serving as havens for the intrepid athletes and their supporters.