The Zegama Aizkorri 2025 Trail: A Comprehensive Overview
The highly anticipated Zegama Aizkorri 2025 trail running event is set to captivate the sports world once again. Scheduled for May 25, 2025, the 24th edition will showcase the stunning landscapes of the Basque Country. Even without legendary runner Kilian Jornet, the event promises to bring fierce competition and breathtaking scenery. Let’s dive into what makes this event special and how to follow it live.
Race Details and Schedule
The race will kick off promptly at 9:00 AM from the center of Zegama, located in Gipuzkoa. Participants will tackle a challenging course that spans 42.195 kilometers through the Aizkorri-Aratz Natural Park. This route boasts an impressive positive elevation gain of 2,736 meters, making it a true test for even the most seasoned trail runners.
Course Features
The trail comprises several daunting ascents and technical sections, including iconic peaks like Aizkorri, Aratz, and Aketegi. Runners can expect a mix of wooded paths, rocky ridges, and high-speed descents, each demanding both mental focus and physical strength.
Key checkpoints include:
- Sancti Spiritu (km 19): A vital emotional hub, where fans create a human tunnel for runners.
- Aizkorri (km 22): The highest point of the race at 1,528 meters.
- Andraitz (km 35): The last significant ascent before returning to Zegama.
Records to Beat
The current records set are Kilian Jornet’s astounding 3:36:40 for men and Nienke Brinkman’s 4:16:43 for women, both achieved in 2022. These times set a high bar for competitors this year.
Competition Landscape
Men’s Favorites
Despite the absence of Kilian Jornet, the men’s field remains competitive. Elhousine Elazzaoui, who finished second in both 2023 and 2024, emerges as a frontrunner to claim victory. Other notable contenders include:
- Stian Angermund, a previous record holder,
- Manuel Merillas, the 2023 champion who thrives under challenging conditions,
- Roberto Delorenzi and Luca del Pero, who are also expected to perform well.
Additionally, underdogs like Andreu Blanes and Antonio Martínez could surprise the field.
Women’s Roster
The women’s race features an illustrious lineup, including:
- Sylvia Nordskar (winner in 2024),
- Oihana Kortazar (previous wins in 2011 and 2012),
- Maite Maiora, who set the former record.
Other participants include experienced contenders like Judith Wyder, who has an impressive background in technical racing but is a newcomer to Zegama. The rapid rise of Sara Alonso and Malen Osa also makes the women’s race unpredictable and exciting.
Viewing the Zegama Aizkorri 2025 Live
For fans eager to catch the action, the race will be streamed live. In Spain, viewers can watch for free on the Zegama YouTube channel starting at 8:30 AM (CET) with coverage in Spanish and Basque, as well as English through the Golden Trail World Series channel.
In addition, EITB will provide broadcast services, and coverage will be available on the platforms MAX and Eurosport. Real-time updates can also be accessed via the Kronoak timing system.
Prize Money and Awards
The stakes are high in Zegama, with a total prize pool of €20,400. Winners will take home €3,000 and the traditional txapela, while second and third place earn €2,000 and €1,000, respectively. Additionally, local and veteran runners will be eligible for special prizes.
Weather Forecast
According to the latest AEMET reports, race day is expected to feature partially cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 8 to 21 °C. This weather is ideal for runners aiming for speed, although higher elevations may present fog and humidity.
The Essence of Zegama
Zegama isn’t just a race; it’s an experience. With only 225 slots available for over 11,000 applications, securing a spot is an achievement in itself. Running this race is a privilege, and winning it is a remarkable feat.
As the day approaches, the excitement builds, and the Basque landscape is set to witness yet another thrilling chapter in its storied trail running history. Get ready for an event that celebrates the spirit of endurance, competition, and community in the heart of the Basque Country!