POSTCARDS FROM LAVAREDO
The past weekend marked an iconic moment for the trail running community with the highly anticipated lottery for the Western States Endurance Run. As one of the most prestigious ultra-trail races globally, the WSER draws thousands of hopefuls vying for a coveted spot in the 100-mile journey from Squaw Valley to Auburn. Known for its grueling terrain, ranging from frostbitten mornings to the scorching heat of California’s canyons, the Western States is as much a test of spirit as it is of endurance. With its roots in the 1950s as a horseback race, the WSER’s history is steeped in adventure and grit, epitomized by Gordy Ainsleigh’s legendary 1974 solo run, completing the course on foot in under 24 hours. For many trail runners, securing a bib here is the ultimate achievement.
Us at Mental Athletic recently took part in the legendary Sainté-Lyon, now arrived at its 70th anniversary! With its unique nocturnal format, the Sainté-Lyon unfolds primarily at night during the first weekend of December, offering participants an unforgettable experience as they traverse a mix of trails and asphalt between Saint-Étienne and Lyon. The modern course stretches over 80 kilometers, and its most striking feature is the sight of a seemingly endless line of headlamps snaking through the darkened hills. From the pre-race buzz in Saint-Étienne’s arena to the magical sunrise over the hills and the triumphant finish in Lyon, the Sainté-Lyon is an emotional rollercoaster and a must for ending the trail season before winter hits.
But what’s the European equivalent of a bucket-list race like WSER? For many, it’s the Lavaredo Ultra Trail, a jewel of Italian ultra-running and a dream event for athletes worldwide. The LUT’s story begins humbly on June 24, 2007, when its first edition, then known as the "Lavaredo Ecomarathon," debuted with a modest 46-kilometer route. With a cap of 200 participants—swiftly reached—the inaugural race started and ended at Rifugio Auronzo, perched at 2,320 meters beneath the breathtaking Tre Cime di Lavaredo. In these early years, the event embodied the pure essence of trail running, with participants carrying their food and relying on mountain streams for water. Complete self-sufficiency was the rule.
Fast forward to today, and the numbers tell a story of transformation: from the 200 entrants of 2007 to an astonishing 14,300 pre-registrations for the 2024 edition. What began with just 10 volunteers has blossomed into a massive event supported by 600 helping hands. The LUT has grown not just in scale but in its cultural and emotional significance, becoming a touchstone for the global trail-running community. Every June, Cortina d’Ampezzo transforms into the epicenter of ultra-running camaraderie. Trail enthusiasts from across the globe converge here, reuniting with friends made over miles of shared trails and forging new connections. The race celebrates more than competition; it’s about community, shared passion, and the joy of being part of something bigger than oneself.
The unique joys of the LUT experience lie not only in running but also in supporting. Many trail enthusiasts volunteer at aid stations or cheer from the sidelines, contributing to the magic of the event. The shared energy and encouragement along the route create an atmosphere that’s nothing short of electrifying.
What sets the Lavaredo Ultra Trail apart is its unparalleled setting. The race unfolds amidst the majestic Dolomites, with trails winding through some of the Alps’ most stunning landscapes. Participants are treated to awe-inspiring views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, an experience that feels like stepping into a dream. For many, running the LUT is not just a race but a pilgrimage—a chance to immerse themselves in the grandeur of nature and the purity of trail running. This essence of discovery is at the heart of what makes ultra-trail running so special. It’s not merely about achieving a personal best but about exploring new terrain and finding joy in every step.
Races like the LUT, the Western States, and the Sainté-Lyon possess a rare quality that transcends physical challenge alone. These events carry cultural and historical weight, tying participants to both the landscapes they traverse and the legacy of those who came before. They go beyond sport, becoming almost spiritual. Crossing those finish lines feels like a pilgrimage, where the journey explores personal boundaries and shared endurance, revealing something profound about ourselves and the world.
Trail running fosters deep connections—to our inner selves, to the community of runners, and to the awe-inspiring natural settings that host these events. Whether the dream is a bib for the Western States, the LUT, or a local trail, the essence lies in the miles covered, the stories created, and the memories etched along the way. Each stride reminds us that the next adventure is always waiting, just over the horizon.
