Over two decades ago, a runner from Tolosa set a milestone in trail running by winning the inaugural edition of the Zegama-Aizkorri. What began as a personal challenge to test his endurance in a mountain marathon ended in an unexpected victory, at a time when the discipline was just beginning to gain popularity in the region.
The athlete, who usually competed on road marathons, trained for three months after learning about the race during a local climb. Despite not having specific preparation for mountain terrain, his physical condition allowed him to cross the finish line first, surprising both the organizers and himself.
“"I didn't prepare to win. I was a regular runner and I signed up to test myself and see how I would handle such a long distance in the mountains. The funny thing is that I ended up winning."
After participating in the second edition, the runner gradually moved away from the trail world. Currently, he works at a butcher shop in Ibarra, keeping fond memories of that day but without actively following the professional circuit that has turned Zegama-Aizkorri into a global reference.
