{"events":[{"id":39238,"global_id":"whatracetorun.com?id=39238","global_id_lineage":["whatracetorun.com?id=39238"],"author":"2","status":"publish","date":"2026-06-07 15:23:50","date_utc":"2026-06-07 15:23:50","modified":"2026-06-07 15:23:54","modified_utc":"2026-06-07 15:23:54","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_events=utmb-mont-blanc","rest_url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/tribe\/events\/v1\/events\/39238","title":"UTMB Mont-Blanc","description":"<p><strong>The HOKA UTMB Mont-Blanc is the world&#8217;s most prestigious trail running race, featuring a 171km circuit around Europe&#8217;s highest peak.<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Course Highlights<\/h3>\n<p>The UTMB course is a legendary 171km loop around the Mont-Blanc massif, crossing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. Starting in Chamonix, runners tackle approximately 10,000 meters of positive elevation gain. Key landmarks include the steep ascent of Col du Bonhomme, the technical Grand Col Ferret, and the breathtaking views from Lac Combal. The terrain varies from lush alpine meadows to rocky, high-altitude passes. After a final descent from La Fl\u00e9g\u00e8re, the race concludes with a triumphant finish through the crowded, cheering streets of Chamonix&#8217;s town center.<\/p>\n<h3>Why Runners Love It<\/h3>\n<p>UTMB is the spiritual home of trail running, often described as the &#8220;Tour de France of the mountains.&#8221; Its prestige stems from its sheer difficulty, the stunning beauty of the Alps, and a rigorous qualification system that ensures only the world&#8217;s best athletes and dedicated amateurs take the start. The atmosphere in Chamonix during race week is electric, with thousands of supporters lining the streets to cheer every finisher. It is a true test of human endurance and spirit, making it the most coveted title in the sport.<\/p>\n<h3>Race Details<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France<\/li>\n<li><strong>Distances:<\/strong> UTMB (171km), CCC (101km), OCC (56km), TDS (145km), PTL (~300km), MCC (40km), ETC (15km), YCC (Junior races)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Next Race Date:<\/strong> 2026-08-28<\/li>\n<li><strong>Start Time:<\/strong> 17:45<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Race Weekend Tips<\/h3>\n<p>Arrive at least three days early to acclimate to the altitude and soak in the vibrant Chamonix atmosphere. The Ultra-Trail Village expo is a must-visit for gear enthusiasts. Accommodations in Chamonix fill up a year in advance, so consider nearby towns like Les Houches, connected by efficient shuttle buses. Prepare for unpredictable alpine weather; mandatory gear is strictly enforced. Use the &#8216;LiveTrail&#8217; app to track runners and plan travel between support zones via the organized supporter shuttles.<\/p>\n<h3>History &amp; Charity<\/h3>\n<p>Founded in 2003 by Catherine and Michel Poletti, UTMB has grown from 700 participants to a global phenomenon. It serves as the finale for the UTMB World Series, attracting over 10,000 runners annually across its various events. The race maintains a strong focus on solidarity through its &#8220;Charity Bibs&#8221; program, which supports 15 selected associations including UTMB Cares, Casa Alianza Suisse, and Petit C\u0153ur de Beurre. These initiatives fund projects in health, inclusion, and environmental protection within the Mont-Blanc region and beyond.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/montblanc.utmb.world\/races\/UTMB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Register at the official race website<\/a>.<\/p>","excerpt":"","slug":"utmb-mont-blanc","image":{"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc.png","id":39236,"extension":"png","width":1672,"height":941,"filesize":3089625,"sizes":{"medium":{"width":300,"height":169,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":99592,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-300x169.png"},"large":{"width":1024,"height":576,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1076900,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-1024x576.png"},"thumbnail":{"width":150,"height":150,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":44788,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-150x150.png"},"medium_large":{"width":768,"height":432,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":615371,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-768x432.png"},"1536x1536":{"width":1536,"height":864,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":2318904,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-1536x864.png"},"endurer_mikado_square":{"width":550,"height":550,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":544729,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-550x550.png"},"endurer_mikado_landscape":{"width":1100,"height":550,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1120277,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-1100x550.png"},"endurer_mikado_portrait":{"width":550,"height":941,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":992001,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-550x941.png"},"endurer_mikado_huge":{"width":1100,"height":941,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1913391,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/utmb_mont_blanc-1100x941.png"}}},"all_day":false,"start_date":"2026-08-28 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15:23:45","date_utc":"2026-06-07 15:23:45","modified":"2026-06-07 15:23:45","modified_utc":"2026-06-07 15:23:45","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_venue=utmb-mont-blanc-start","venue":"UTMB Mont-Blanc | Start","slug":"utmb-mont-blanc-start","address":"Place du Triangle de l'Amiti\u00e9, 74400 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc","city":"Chamonix-Mont-Blanc","country":"France","province":"Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes","zip":"74400","stateprovince":"Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes","show_map":true,"show_map_link":true,"global_id":"whatracetorun.com?id=39237","global_id_lineage":["whatracetorun.com?id=39237"]},"organizer":[],"custom_fields":[],"event_bgcolor":"","event_text_color":"","ticketed":false},{"id":38660,"global_id":"whatracetorun.com?id=38660","global_id_lineage":["whatracetorun.com?id=38660"],"author":"2","status":"publish","date":"2026-05-31 15:35:20","date_utc":"2026-05-31 15:35:20","modified":"2026-05-31 15:35:31","modified_utc":"2026-05-31 15:35:31","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_events=marathon-du-m-doc","rest_url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/tribe\/events\/v1\/events\/38660","title":"Marathon du M\u00e9doc","description":"<p>A world-famous marathon through Bordeaux&#8217;s prestigious vineyards, known for its wine-tasting stops, fancy-dress requirement, and festive 42.195 km course.<\/p>\n<h3>Course Highlights<\/h3>\n<p>The Marathon du M\u00e9doc offers one of the most scenic and unusual courses in the world of long-distance running. Winding through the prestigious vineyards of the M\u00e9doc region north of Bordeaux, runners traverse the legendary appellations of Pauillac, Saint-Julien, and Saint-Est\u00e8phe. The route passes by more than 50 world-renowned ch\u00e2teaux, including icons like Ch\u00e2teau Mouton-Rothschild, Ch\u00e2teau Lafite-Rothschild, and Ch\u00e2teau Latour. Approximately 24% of the course consists of gravel or &#8220;dust roads&#8221; that cut through the heart of the vines, providing a rustic and authentic experience. The terrain is undulating but manageable, framed by the picturesque Gironde estuary. Beyond the vineyards, the course is dotted with dozens of musical animations and performance groups, ensuring there is never a dull moment. The backdrop of historic 18th and 19th-century architecture combined with the lush green rows of grapevines makes for an unforgettable visual feast.<\/p>\n<h3>Race Details<\/h3>\n<p>Scheduled for September 5, 2026, the 40th edition of the Marathon du M\u00e9doc celebrates its landmark anniversary with the theme &#8220;The 80&#8217;s,&#8221; promising a vibrant sea of neon and retro fancy dress. The race starts at 09:30 AM on the river banks of Pauillac and follows a 42.195 km loop that returns to the same location. Bib collection takes place on the Friday prior at the COSEC stadium in Pauillac. Participants are given a generous time limit of 6 hours and 30 minutes, which is intentionally longer than average to allow for the race&#8217;s unique &#8220;pit stops.&#8221; These include 22 wine tasting stations and gastronomic samplings such as oysters, entrecote steak, cheese, and even ice cream in the final kilometers. The event is strictly for runners, but a &#8220;recovery walk&#8221; is typically held on the Sunday following the race. The 2026 edition is expected to host approximately 8,500 runners from over 70 countries, supported by a dedicated team of 3,000 volunteers.<\/p>\n<h3>Why Runners Love It<\/h3>\n<p>Known as &#8220;the world&#8217;s longest marathon,&#8221; the M\u00e9doc is beloved not for its speed, but for its unparalleled spirit of conviviality and &#8220;joie de vivre.&#8221; Runners love the compulsory fancy-dress requirement, which transforms the competitive field into a whimsical carnival. The focus is firmly on fun, with many participants prioritizing wine and cheese pairings over their finish times. The race is deeply rooted in local culture and charity, with the AMCM organization providing significant logistical and financial support to various regional charities each year. The atmosphere is electric, from the &#8220;Mille-Pates&#8221; pasta party on Friday night to the fireworks display and dancing that cap off Saturday\u2019s festivities. It is a rare athletic event where the prize for the male and female winners is their weight in fine M\u00e9doc wine. For many, the Marathon du M\u00e9doc is a &#8220;bucket list&#8221; experience that perfectly blends the challenge of a marathon with the refined pleasures of French gastronomy and viticulture.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marathondumedoc.com\/en\/registration-global\/\">Register for Marathon du M\u00e9doc<\/a><\/p>\n<h3>At a Glance<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Pauillac, Nouvelle-Aquitaine \u2014 France<\/li>\n<li><strong>Next Date:<\/strong> 2026-09-05<\/li>\n<li><strong>Distances:<\/strong> 42.195 km<\/li>\n<li><strong>Start Time:<\/strong> 09:30<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Register &#038; Learn More<\/h3>\n<p>Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marathondumedoc.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/www.marathondumedoc.com\/en\/<\/a><\/p>","excerpt":"","slug":"marathon-du-m-doc","image":{"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc.png","id":38651,"extension":"png","width":1536,"height":1024,"filesize":2846542,"sizes":{"medium":{"width":300,"height":200,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":99134,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-300x200.png"},"large":{"width":1024,"height":683,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1047906,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-1024x683.png"},"thumbnail":{"width":150,"height":150,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":39362,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-150x150.png"},"medium_large":{"width":768,"height":512,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":599183,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-768x512.png"},"endurer_mikado_square":{"width":550,"height":550,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":467757,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-550x550.png"},"endurer_mikado_landscape":{"width":1100,"height":550,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":960627,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-1100x550.png"},"endurer_mikado_portrait":{"width":550,"height":1024,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":892531,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-550x1024.png"},"endurer_mikado_huge":{"width":1100,"height":1024,"mime-type":"image\/png","filesize":1778553,"url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/marathon-du-m-doc-1100x1024.png"}}},"all_day":false,"start_date":"2026-09-05 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15:35:08","date_utc":"2026-05-31 15:35:08","modified":"2026-05-31 15:35:08","modified_utc":"2026-05-31 15:35:08","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_venue=marathon-du-medoc-pauillac","venue":"Marathon du M\u00e9doc | Pauillac","slug":"marathon-du-medoc-pauillac","address":"Quai Antoine Ferchaud","city":"Pauillac","country":"France","province":"Nouvelle-Aquitaine","state":"Nouvelle-Aquitaine","zip":"33250","stateprovince":"Nouvelle-Aquitaine","show_map":true,"show_map_link":true,"global_id":"whatracetorun.com?id=38657","global_id_lineage":["whatracetorun.com?id=38657"]},"organizer":[],"custom_fields":[],"event_bgcolor":"","event_text_color":"","ticketed":false},{"id":38470,"global_id":"whatracetorun.com?id=38470","global_id_lineage":["whatracetorun.com?id=38470"],"author":"2","status":"publish","date":"2026-05-17 15:31:44","date_utc":"2026-05-17 15:31:44","modified":"2026-05-17 15:31:56","modified_utc":"2026-05-17 15:31:56","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_events=lille-half-marathon-semi-marathon-de-lille","rest_url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/tribe\/events\/v1\/events\/38470","title":"Lille Half Marathon (Semi-marathon de Lille)","description":"<p>The Lille Half Marathon is an FFA Gold Label road race known for its ultra-flat, fast course through the historic center and scenic boulevards of Lille, France.<\/p>\n<h3>Course Highlights<\/h3>\n<p>The Lille Half Marathon (Semi-marathon de Lille) takes runners through the historic heart and modern avenues of one of France&#8217;s most vibrant northern cities. Historically held in March, the race has transitioned to a major autumn event for 2026, coinciding with the grand return of the full marathon. The course is renowned for being &#8220;ultra-plat&#8221; (ultra-flat) and fast, making it a prime destination for athletes aiming for a personal best. The route typically winds through the city center, passing iconic landmarks such as the 17th-century Citadelle de Lille and the grand architecture of the Boulevard de la Libert\u00e9. Runners can expect a lively atmosphere with festive musical animations stationed throughout the course to boost morale and keep the energy high until the finish line at the Place de la R\u00e9publique.<\/p>\n<h3>Race Details<\/h3>\n<p>Scheduled for <b>Sunday, October 25, 2026<\/b>, the Lille Half Marathon is organized by the Ligue Hauts-de-France d\u2019Athl\u00e9tisme and carries the prestigious FFA Gold Label, ensuring a high-standard competitive environment. While the exact start times are finalized closer to the date, the event typically begins in the morning around 08:00 or 09:00. The race starts and finishes in central Lille, often utilizing the Grand Boulevard area near La Madeleine or the Boulevard de la Libert\u00e9. A time limit of 2 hours and 30 minutes is strictly enforced, with a mandatory cut-off at the 15km mark in 1 hour and 47 minutes. Registration fees are approximately \u20ac30, with special discounts for FFA license holders. Participants must provide a valid PPS (Parcours Pr\u00e9vention Sant\u00e9) number or equivalent medical certification as per FFA regulations.<\/p>\n<h3>Why Runners Love It<\/h3>\n<p>Runners are drawn to Lille for its exceptional combination of a lightning-fast course and an unparalleled northern French hospitality. The city\u2019s passion for running is evident in the massive crowds that line the streets, particularly for the historic 2026 edition which marks the full marathon&#8217;s return after three decades. Beyond the race, participants enjoy the &#8220;Village Arriv\u00e9e,&#8221; where they can recover with traditional local treats\u2014mussels and fries are a post-race staple during festive weekends. The event is celebrated for its inclusive yet competitive spirit, welcoming both elite athletes chasing national qualifying times and recreational runners enjoying the scenic urban landscape. The flat terrain and cool October temperatures provide the perfect conditions for a successful race day. Secure your spot in this historic return by registering at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marathon-lille.com\/\">official website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>At a Glance<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Lille, Hauts-de-France \u2014 France<\/li>\n<li><strong>Next Date:<\/strong> 2026-10-25<\/li>\n<li><strong>Distances:<\/strong> Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K<\/li>\n<li><strong>Start Time:<\/strong> 08:00<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Register &#038; Learn More<\/h3>\n<p>Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.marathon-lille.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" 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09:14:53","modified_utc":"2026-05-11 09:14:53","url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/?tribe_events=harmonie-mutuelle-toulouse-m-tropole-run-experience","rest_url":"https:\/\/whatracetorun.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/tribe\/events\/v1\/events\/38341","title":"Harmonie Mutuelle Toulouse M\u00e9tropole Run Experience","description":"<p>The Harmonie Mutuelle Toulouse M\u00e9tropole Run Experience is a premier urban running festival in France&#8217;s &#8220;Pink City,&#8221; featuring a fast, flat course that winds through historic landmarks and celebrated aerospace sites.<\/p>\n<h3>Course Highlights<\/h3>\n<p>The course of the Harmonie Mutuelle Toulouse M\u00e9tropole Run Experience, affectionately known as the &#8220;Marathon des G\u00e9ants,&#8221; is a stunning urban loop designed to showcase the very best of France&#8217;s fourth-largest city. Starting from the grand All\u00e9e Fran\u00e7ois Verdier, runners are immediately immersed in the city&#8217;s architectural heritage. The route winds through the historic center, passing the iconic Place du Capitole with its majestic facade and crossing the Garonne River via the historic Pont Neuf and the modern Pont des Catalans. These crossings offer spectacular views of the riverbanks and the characteristic terracotta architecture that gives Toulouse its &#8220;Pink City&#8221; moniker.<\/p>\n<p>As the race progresses, participants venture into the southeastern part of the city, passing the Jardin des Plantes and the Museum of Toulouse. A particularly unique segment takes runners along the &#8220;Piste des G\u00e9ants&#8221; (Runway of Giants) in the Montaudran district, a site steeped in aviation history where legendary pilots like Saint-Exup\u00e9ry once took off. The course also brushes past the Cit\u00e9 de l&#8217;Espace, highlighting the city&#8217;s status as Europe&#8217;s space capital. The flat profile continues along long, fast boulevards and scenic riverside stretches, including the Canal du Midi, providing a diverse and engaging landscape that keeps the mind occupied while the legs do the work.<\/p>\n<h3>Race Details<\/h3>\n<p>The 2026 edition of this prestigious event is set for Sunday, November 1st, continuing its tradition as a late-autumn fixture on the European running calendar. The marathon distance holds the International Label from the French Athletics Federation (FFA), ensuring a high-quality experience for both elite athletes and amateur enthusiasts. In addition to the full 42.195 km marathon, the event offers a semi-marathon (21.1 km), a 10 km race, and a popular relay marathon for teams of four, allowing runners of all abilities to participate in the festival atmosphere. A dedicated series of kids&#8217; races, known as the &#8220;Courses des Enfants,&#8221; typically takes place on the preceding Saturday at the Prairie des Filtres.<\/p>\n<p>Logistically, the event is centered around the Race Village located at the Place du Capitole, where participants can collect their bibs in the days leading up to the race. The start time for the full marathon is scheduled for 08:00, with other distances following shortly after. Runners must adhere to a 6-hour time limit for the marathon. In a significant move toward sustainability, the organizers have eliminated single-use plastic bottles, instead connecting directly to the city&#8217;s water network at hydration stations. To participate, non-licensed runners must complete the digital &#8220;Pass Pr\u00e9vention Sant\u00e9&#8221; (PPS) within three months of the race date, replacing the traditional medical certificate requirement.<\/p>\n<h3>Why Runners Love It<\/h3>\n<p>Runners from across the globe are drawn to Toulouse for its reputation as one of the fastest marathon courses in France. With an elevation gain of only around 120 meters over the entire distance, it is a prime venue for achieving a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time. However, the appeal goes far beyond the clock. The atmosphere in Toulouse is famously warm and festive; local bands, &#8220;bandas&#8221; (traditional wind bands), and thousands of vocal spectators create an electric environment that carries runners through the challenging final kilometers.<\/p>\n<p>The event also prides itself on its authentic local character. Rather than generic medals and t-shirts, finishers receive unique wooden medals crafted from sustainably managed French forests, reflecting a commitment to eco-responsibility. The post-race experience is equally memorable, with the finish line at Boulevard d&#8217;Arcole providing a grand stage for celebration. Many runners choose to extend their stay to enjoy the world-renowned gastronomy of the Occitanie region, including the famous cassoulet, making the race a perfect blend of athletic challenge and cultural exploration. Whether you are chasing a record or simply looking to discover the soul of the Ville Rose, this race delivers an unforgettable experience.<\/p>\n<p>Ready to take on the challenge of the Marathon des G\u00e9ants? Don&#8217;t wait to secure your place in one of the most vibrant running events in France. Whether you&#8217;re aiming for a new personal best or simply want to soak in the atmosphere of the Pink City, the start line awaits. Join thousands of fellow runners for an experience that combines heritage, speed, and southern French charm. <a href=\"https:\/\/toulouserunexperience.fr\/\">Register today on the official Harmonie Mutuelle Toulouse M\u00e9tropole Run Experience website<\/a> and start your training for November 2026!<\/p>\n<h3>At a Glance<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Location:<\/strong> Toulouse, Occitanie \u2014 France<\/li>\n<li><strong>Next Date:<\/strong> 2026-11-01<\/li>\n<li><strong>Distances:<\/strong> [&#8216;Marathon&#8217;, &#8216;Half Marathon&#8217;, &#8217;10K&#8217;, &#8216;Relay Marathon&#8217;]<\/li>\n<li><strong>Start Time:<\/strong> 08:00<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Register &#038; Learn More<\/h3>\n<p>Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: <a href=\"https:\/\/toulouserunexperience.fr\/\" target=\"_blank\" 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