18. INTERNATIONAL U18 MOUNTAIN RUNNING CUP 2025:

SLOVAKIA TO WELCOME YOUNG MOUNTAIN RUNNERS

The 18th International U18 Mountain Running Cup is confirmed for June 13-14 2025, in the picturesque mountain resort of Donovaly, Slovakia.

The International U18 Mountain Running Cup is an annual event bringing together the best under 18 runners from a broad range of countries, and as such it is an important steppingstone for many in the sport. The first edition of the event was held in Susa, Italy in 2006, and since then, it has been held in various countries around the world.

The event, organized by the World Mountain Running Association and the Slovak Athletic Federation will see teams from many countries like Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Poland, Switzerland, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia, England, USA and some more. Each country can field four women and four men and the first three finishers for each country will count towards the team competition.

The event website is now live at https://www.bamm.sk/18th-international-u18-mountain-running-cup-2025-slovakia, where you can also find the team manual and a wealth of additional information.

The course runs mainly through forest terrain and meadows along marked hiking trails. Is 5.8 km long, with a total elevation gain of 513 meters. The starting point is located at a parking lot Park Snow Donovaly about a 15-minute walk from the accommodation. From this parking lot, a cable car operates to Nová Hoľa, where the finish line is situated.

The course runs mainly through forest terrain and meadows along marked hiking trails. Is 5.8 km long, with a total elevation gain of 513 meters. The starting point is located at a parking lot Park Snow Donovaly about a 15-minute walk from the accommodation. From this parking lot, a cable car operates to Nová Hoľa, where the finish line is situated.

Registration for the International U18 Mountain Running Cup 2025 is organized by the National Federations.

• April 15th – Preliminary Entries (PEF)
• June 2nd – Final Entries (FEF) Preliminary Entries

The Preliminary Entry Forms with all requested details shall reach the LOC and WMRA Secretary not later than two months before the competition day. Final Entries The Final Entry Forms with all requested details shall reach the LOC and WMRA Secretary no later than two Mondays before the day of competition (e.g. Monday, 2 th June for competition on Saturday, 14th June)

The race will take place in Donovaly, a mountain village nestled in the Banská Bystrica region at an elevation of 960 metres, where the Veľká Fatra and Starohorské Vrchy mountain ranges meet. The village spans both the northern (Liptov) and southern (Horehronie) slopes of the mountain pass.

Banská Bystrica and Ružomberok are approximately 27 km away and are easily accessible via the I/59 road. The eastern part of Donovaly lies within the Low Tatras National Park, which encompasses the Štrosy Nature Reserve.

Donovaly is renowned for:

• A Mountain Paradise: Donovaly is a charming mountain village situated at the crossroads of the Veľká Fatra and Starohorské Vrchy mountain ranges, standing 960 metres above sea level. With its stunning views and unspoiled natural beauty, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
• A Premier Skiing Destination: Donovaly is one of Slovakia’s most renowned ski resorts, offering slopes to suit all abilities. It’s also home to Funpark Donovaly, one of Central Europe’s largest children’s ski parks.

• Hiking and Cycling Adventures: The area features a vast network of marked trails for hiking and mountain biking. These paths wind through dense forests and picturesque meadows, providing breathtaking views of the Low Tatras and beyond.
• Enchanting Sights: Donovaly hosts the Habakuky Fairy-Tale Village, an enchanting theme park inspired by Slovak folklore. It’s a delightful spot for families and anyone who loves magical stories.
• Historic Korytnica Spa: The nearby Korytnica area, celebrated for its mineral springs, was a popular spa destination in the 19th century. While the spa is no longer operational, visitors can still enjoy the natural spring water.

Wednesday, June 11

• Arrival of non-European teams
• 13:30 – Lunch
• 20:00 – Dinner

Thursday, June 12

• Arrival of teams and WMRA delegates
• 13:30 – Lunch
• 20:00 – Dinner

Friday, June 13

• 10:00 – Course inspection – walking distance (approx. 15 minutes)
• 12:00 – Lunch
• 17:00 – Technical meeting (team leaders only)
• 18:00 – Opening ceremony
• 19:00 – Dinner
• 21:00–22:00 – VIP reception

Saturday, June 14

• 9:30 – Recommanded departure to the race start (walking distance approx. 15 minutes)
• 9:30 – Public race
• 11:00 – U18 Cup start (girls)
• 11:45 – U18 Cup start (boys)
• 12:30 – Flower ceremony
• 14:00 – Lunch
• 18:00 – Medal ceremony and closing ceremony
• 19:00–21:30 – After party

Sunday, June 15

• Departure of participants