Who
Ultra Trail Du Temple was created by Nico, with the help of Balint and Rikke, with the intent to combine the benefits of trail running and mountain biking with history and culture. There is no doubts that exercising outdoor has outstanding benefits to physical and mental health not achievable indoor. And, if combined with stunning scenery, the feeling of wellness may be unmatched. Originating from a place where ancient times carved its beauty, Sicily seems the perfect place where to start this journey.
What
Ultra Trail Du Temple is a competitive trail running race, which also includes a mountain-bike course (when possible), taking place in the Sicilian inland surrounding historic parks where amphiteatres and temples are located, such as Segesta, Selinunte, Agrigento and more. The race is on a semi-autonomy format which means that athletes, must be able to provide for their own continuity between aid stations. Remember to check of Rules & Regulations, to ensure a safe and memorable experien whilst enjoying the magnificent Greek heritage of Sicily and its architecture.
When
Dates and times of the UTDT events are listed on each distance page. It is the runner's responsibility to arrive at the correct day&time. In case of late arrivals, participation is annulled. In cases of remote start locations, there will be a shuttle bus service available. Participants missing the shuttle bus, must arrange for their own transport to the start-line (they must arrive before the scheduled start time). Registrations will close 30 days before event-day to allow for the organization of the necessary logistics such as printing of t-shirts, BIBs, etc.. Official confirmation will take place the day before event, at the allocated area. Check the details and requirements for your race.
Where
Ultra Trail Du Temple will start its inauguration event in Western Sicily, which will take runners along and across some of Italy's most beautiful white-sanded beaches and National Marine Reserves to reach the imposing Greek Temple and Anphiteartre of Segesta. This is definitely one of the world's most ancient trail route marched since the 500B.C. by Persian soldiers, Roman Gladiators and Greek traders. Following events are planned to take place around the Sicilian coast and inland such as the area around Selinunte Temples and the Temples Valley in Agrigento. Stay tuned!
Why
The legend says that Philippides "run" from Marathon to Athens, in 490BC, to give message of the Greek victory against the Persians. A small mountain, Mount Pentelicus (slightly over 1000m high), stands between Marathon and Athens. Another account of the legend goes that Philippides run from Marathon to Sparta to ask for help covering a distance of over 200Km One thing is certain; whether the messenger run around or across the mountain or, whether he run 42Km or 200+Km, it was not flat or asphalted. Ultra Trail Du Temple celebrates the origins of running and ultra trail running through similar routes and scenery. Running is rooted on trails.