This summer, the Alps beckon trail runners with the promise of adventure, endurance, and breathtaking landscapes – we’ve been victim many a time, haha. DYNAFIT, a brand synonymous with the spirit of mountain endurance sports (more so in Europe than North America, for now at least), is inviting trail and ultra runners to mark their calendars for two of the most awe-inspiring races of the year: the Grossglockner ULTRA-TRAIL (GGUT) and the legendary Transalpine Run (TAR).
As a proud partner and supporter, DYNAFIT is not just facilitating these events but also bringing their latest innovations and a team of elite athletes to the forefront of these challenging races. When it comes to trail racing in Europe, there are so many EPIC events beyond the UTMB! These 2 are on our imminent race list, and should be on yours too.
The Grossglockner ULTRA-TRAIL: A test of endurance and grit
Set against the stunning backdrop of the High Tauern National Park, the GGUT is renowned as the Eastern Alps’ most demanding trail race. With six distinct competitions ranging from the Speed Trail to the formidable 110K main event featuring 6,500 meters of climbing, the GGUT offers something for every level of trail runner.
Even the youngest enthusiasts have their own race, the Mini-GGUT, ensuring the event caters to families and hence the entire trail running community. The races start and finish in the atmospheric Salzburg town square of Kaprun, Austria, creating a vibrant hub for participants and spectators alike.
Dates & details for the GGUT:
- When: July 25-28, 2024
- Where: Zell am See, Kaprun, Austria
- Participants: Approximately 2,000 starters
- Courses: Ranging from the 110k ULTRA-TRAIL (with 6,500 meters of climbing) to the family-friendly Mini-GGUT (1km and 20m of climbing)
- Special Features: The course traverses 14 glaciers, providing a race experience like no other.
- More Info: Grossglockner ULTRA-TRAIL website
The DYNAFIT Transalpine Run: A multi-country alpine odyssey
For those dreaming of an alpine traverse, the TAR offers an unparalleled team competition experience. This multi-day stage race challenges participants to cross four countries, starting in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, and finishing at the Reschensee lake in South Tyrol, Italy.
Covering 271 kilometers with 17,040 meters of climbing, the TAR is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience and the beauty of the alpine environment. The event, which also allows for individual runners alongside two-person teams, represents a bucket-list achievement for many in the trail running community.
It’s the perfect alternative to UTMB, if you’re looking for a mountain challenge this year and didnt get into that race.
Dates & Details for the TAR:
- When: September 7-13, 2024
- Where: From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany to Reschensee lake, Italy
- Participants: 200 team spots and 200 individual runners for the Transalpine Run; 150 team spots for the Run2.
- Courses: The main Transalpine Run and the two-day Run2 challenge
- Special Features: A multi-country, multi-day stage race offering a unique team and individual runner experience.
- More Info: Transalpine Run website
Beyond Europe: DYNAFIT’s Global Trail Running Presence
DYNAFIT’s commitment to the trail running community extends beyond the GGUT and TAR, with a presence at numerous international events.
From sky races in La Palma to ultra runs in Canada, DYNAFIT supports a diverse array of competitions that challenge and celebrate the trail running spirit.
Elevate your race with the DYNAFIT DNA Collection
Understanding the demands of such grueling races, DYNAFIT has crafted the DNA System, a high-performance gear package designed for speed, durability, and comfort.
This collection offers everything a trail runner needs to perform at their best, from advanced materials to innovative features that shave off critical seconds. Learn more about the DYNAFIT DNA Collection.