The following press release was provided by the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) to announce Palencia (Spain) as host of the International U18 Mountain Running Cup in 2024. Cover photo by Francisco Caballero.
The 17th edition International U18 Mountain Running Cup, co-organized by the Excm. Diputación de Palencia, the RFEA and the WMRA, will be held from 21 to 22 June in “Montaña Palentina” (Spain).
This prestigious international event will follow the success of Annecy, France in 2023 and will showcase the world’s top young athletes in the thrilling sport of mountain running. Palencia is poised to provide an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike.
On the trails near the race venue. Photo: Francisco Caballero
Venue
The event is planned to take place on June 21-22 in Aguilar de Campoo and Barruelo de Santullán, both situated within the Palencia region. The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has designated these two primary sites: Aguilar de Campoo will host all institutional events, while Barruelo de Santullán has been chosen as the race venue.
Both locations are part of the area known as “Montaña Palentina”, with deep-rooted history and breathtaking scenery. The region promises to offer participants and visitors an unforgettable experience beyond the race itself.
Known for its stunning natural landscapes, rugged terrains, and rich cultural heritage, Palencia will undoubtedly provide the perfect backdrop for the International U18 Mountain Running Cup.
The race, in Barruelo de Santullán, will cover a distance of 5,5 km with an elevation gained of 200 meters.
Trails await runners for the 2024 International U18 Mountain Running Cup. Photo: Francisco Caballero
Comments from Officials
The President of the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation, Raúl Chapado, mentioned, “Trail and Mountain Running is a strategic area for the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation and the celebration in our country of the U18 Mountain Running Cup is a reflection of our commitment. The RFEA’s commitment is global, from the base to the elite, with the organization of at least one annual competition in our borders. An event like this allows athletes to experience a championship at home and, at the same time, bring this discipline to the different corners of our country, making known the charm of places like the Palencia Mountain. We hope to live a weekend of success and that the young people of #EspañaAtletismo spread their Passion for Competing to all Palentinos.”
Tomo Sarf, President of the World Mountain Running Association also added, “We are very happy to see how Spain, after decades of “observing” the international Mountain running scene, will now host World Cup races in 2023, the U18 Mountain Running Cup and the World Master Mountain Running Championships in 2024 and the World Mountain and Trail Running Championships in 2025. Impressive! Looking forward to our cooperation in the next 2 years.”
