FROM THE DOLOMITES TO QUÉBEC: A TRANSATLANTIC PARTNERSHIP
The 12 renowned peaks of Quebec and the southern group of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two different manifestations of the concept of mountains. On one hand, the lush forest and rounded peaks of the French corner of Canada. On the other, the brilliance of the majestic dolomite rock that seems to pierce the sky above the Alps. Two distinct regions that have become equally iconic in the world of ultra trail running, thanks to the challenges their trails offer.
Two journeys that become linked in the “Dolomiti Extreme Trail & Bromont Ultra: A Transatlantic Race,” promoted by Karpos. Beginning in 2024, the overall winners of the Bromont Ultra 160K will be able to take on one of the challenges offered by the Dolomiti Extreme Trail at the beginning of June, embarking on an unforgettable experience on the untamed trails of the Dolomites. Those who are first to cross the finish line of the DXT 72K in Forno di Zoldo will be able to fly to Canada in October and compete in one of the distances offered at the most important ultra trail event in francophone Canada.
“The goal of this partnership is to create a bridge between the communities of trail runners,” explains Giuseppe Lira, Karpos brand manager. “We want to give the winners of the two races that we partner with the opportunity to try new challenges, learn about new areas and compete with athletes who share the same passion. Ultimately, the mountains, whatever their local differences, have something fundamental in common that brings us all together.”
Are there any outdoor experiences more evocative than running surrounded by red maple foliage? The answer to this question is the Bromont Ultra, which starts from the town in Quebec that the event is named after. Launched in 2014 as the Canadian version of the American 100 miles, it has grown in appeal and participation over the years and now allows runners to test themselves over five different distances: 160K, 80K, 55K, 25K, 12K. The shorter versions all originate from the route that links together the 12 most iconic peaks of the region, along trails that are opened specifically for the race weekend. A wild and immersive experience, to be enjoyed alone or with your “trail buddy,” surrounded by majestic nature and the countless lakes you can come across. The Bromont Ultra is all this, but above all it’s a race that’s ruthless because of the weather and terrain. Suffice it to say that one athlete out of two fails to complete the signature race (160K with 7,000 m elevation gain). A journey that takes you beyond your limits, both externally and within yourself.