The Montes de Vitoria mountains will once again be filled with runners, backpacks, and poles for a new edition of the ‘Montes de Vitoria-Gasteizko Mendiak’ race. The event is scheduled for June 6th and will bring together 1,000 participants over a 62.3-kilometer route, passing through some of the most well-known peaks in Álava.

The course will start from Ullibarri-Jauregi and ascend peaks such as Itxogana, Indiagana, Arraialde, Almurrain, Kapildui, Zalbizkar, Lendiz, Arrieta, Zaldiaraban, Busto, and Ezkibel. This mountain challenge, spanning over 60 kilometers, has become a regular fixture for trail running and long-distance enthusiasts.

Completing this race can serve as a gateway to one of Euskal Herria's most renowned mountain events: the Hiru Haundiak. According to the organizers, the top 100 finishers will receive a reserved entry for the 2027 edition, with another hundred selected via a lottery among those who complete the race. The Hiru Haundiak, exceeding 100 kilometers, attracts significant interest from mountain runners, thus adding further value to this demanding event.

The Sociedad Excursionista Manuel Iradier has also emphasized its commitment to the local environment, highlighting the importance of "natural heritage and collaboration with quality, local products, as well as small producers." Leftover food from aid stations will be donated to the Álava Food Bank, serving as a way to utilize resources and give back to the community that supports the event.

The organization has stated that places were allocated by lottery and a waiting list is still active. In addition to the 1,000 participants, 200 volunteers will be present throughout the course. The race is organized by the Sociedad Excursionista Manuel Iradier, with primary sponsorship from Fundación Vital and collaboration from the Provincial Council of Álava and the Basque Government. The presentation took place on Tuesday at the Arkabia cultural space of Vital Fundazioa.