Rabat-die quickly used 4th edition of the Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail (skin) promises a powerful experience that combines nature, culture and community in the majestic high atlas mountains.
It will run by several villages and the breathtaking Toubkal National Park, the highest and most famous nature reserve Morocco, said the organizers at a press conference in Casablanca today.
This year HIGHPlanned for May 3 to 4, promises more than just a race. In the 2025 edition, two brand new elements are presented: a time-controlled cadets and junior races to encourage young athletes and help them reach the elite level, and a medical caravan in the rural region of Assif Zagrawen to offer the main race in front of the main race on 19 to 20.
“We have some great additions this year,” said Kaoutar Bendoumou, the director of the event. “In addition to our usual solidarity actions, we added a medical caravan and a youth race to motivate young runners and support their growth,” she told Morocco World News.
This path is organized by and for people The organizers said the region. A unique aspect is the strong focus on local development and cultural preservation. Local women’s associations produce handmade Amazigh -carpets that are awarded to the panel steadets in all races.
These carpets, which are rich in importance and tradition, symbolize the beauty and strength of the region affected by the earthquake of Al Haouz, which hit central Morocco in September 2023.
An exhibition of local products also takes place in the village in which the race takes place to present and support small producers. The residents are employed in various aspects of the race, including logistics and hospitality to strengthen the goal of the trail, to create permanent economic opportunities.
This year, 40% of participants are women, a significant increase compared to 30% of the previous year, thanks to the Shehe Run initiative. The organizers hope to continue to push for more inclusion and equal opportunities in endurance sports.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of Youssef Ait Meskouk, a young Elite Trail runner from Imlil, who won the 42 -km race of the past year. He spoke about how in the past young people in villages like Imlil had no access to the world of trail run or the possibilities associated with it.
“In the past we didn’t even know what Trail was running,” he said to Morocco World News. “Well, thanks HIGHWe had the chance to train and even compete internationally. “
Youssef was one of the athletes who qualified for Switzerland last year with a partnership with the Swiss embassy and international races such as Sierre-Zinal and Thyon-Dixence. The partnership now includes support with visas and complete travel reporting for the best male and female winners of the Hain 42 -KM race in the second year.
“In Switzerland with some of the best athletes in the world, there was a dream that had become true,” said Youssef. “This year I hope to make it even better and maybe win it again!” he added.
The organizers also spoke about the continued commitment of the event for the environment through the ITRA Green Engagement program. The organizers endeavor to reduce waste, employ locals and to promote environmentally friendly practices as a whole.
At the press conference, a new racial shirt and a symbolic medal were also unveiled. The medal has from Amaghes inspired designs that proudly represent the identity and values of the region.
“This is not just a breed, it is a celebration of nature, culture and community,” said Bendoumou. “It is also an opportunity to show the world the beauty of our region,” she added.
