GORE-TEX Transalpine-Run – the word alone gives me goosebumps. All the emotions experienced five years ago, when we ran for the first time across the Alps during eight intense days, came flooding back all at once. Eight legs which bring all participants together in what will become part of a sizeable yet also very familiar running community from all over the world. We’ve only got one goal: crossing the finish line after running for more than 300 km and overcoming 15,000 m elevation gain. A friend of mine had sung the praises of this great race, and how the strong emotions unite all runners – I experienced that on my own skin not once, but twice. I come from Spain and during the event I met people from Germany, Switzerland, France, Russia, Italy and even the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Argentina. And on top of that, people from Japan, New Zealand, and Iran, which was even more exotic for me. There’s no borders, no nationalities... only cohesion and a common passion for trail running and the mountains. [gallery ids="869,870,871,872,874,875,876"]
Stage 1+2 of the new route: plenty of adventure, technical downhills, and a beautiful countryside
The run welds people together: in 2013, I ran with my German friend, Annette, who works at Gore. We met and bonded in 2010 when I took part in the Transalpine Run for the very first time. Last weekend I ran yet again with Annette and explored the first two legs of the new GORE-TEX Transalpine-Run route. I’m one of the GORE-TEX trail scouts who received the opportunity to run on the new route in occasion of the 12th edition of the race. We spent two intense training days together, and let me tell you, they were absolutely the best. We actually had time to enjoy the impressive landscape and the beauty of the trails without having to worry about the usual time limit of the race. Together with other passionate runners, we assessed the difficulties encountered during climbs and descents on the route. It was our own little adventure, as the route wasn’t signposted and we had to rely solely on a map and GPS to navigate the mountains. The first stage from Garmisch (Germany) to Lermoos (Austria) is an ideal warm-up for the remaining leg. It acts as a stepping stone for the big challenge ahead: the GORE-TEX Transalpine-Run. Seven days across the Alps eating up a ‘few’ kilometres and metres’ elevation gain. Gentle climbs, technical downhills, and beautiful views awaited us on this first leg.
Even the second stage, between Lermoos and Imst, offers stunning views and extraordinary paths running across enchanting forests.
The race director and the whole team once again did an amazing job: the new route has been designed especially for those who love running in the mountains on technically demanding and beautiful routes, for fans of nature and thrill-seekers. Thank you for allowing us to discover the first part of this new route, its mountains, and challenges. See you soon! Elena and Annette
