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Ultra Trail Angkor (UTA) 2025

ยซ "Going further and further at Angkor... ยป
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The event in a few words

Angkor. A name that dreams are made of ๐Ÿ˜. 400 kmยฒ of supremely authentic landscapes, timeless and atmospheric, nestled in the Northwest of Cambodia ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ญ. It's no wonder that this archaeological site has been a UNESCO World Heritage ๐ŸŒŽ since 1992! Indeed, it's hard not to be captivated by the magnetic force of this exceptional site (dating back to 880 BC), located on the outskirts of the city ๐Ÿ™๏ธ of Siem Reap. From the mazes of carved stones to the majestic temples ๐Ÿ›๏ธ, through the lush vegetation ๐ŸŒด, the former territory of the Khmer Empire exerts an indescribable hypnotic power on everyone who steps foot there ๐Ÿ‘ฃ. There you are, world lovers, do you already see yourself exploring the enigmatic corridors of this millennia-old city? How about indulging your desires for travel and vast open spaces by partaking in an absolutely unique sporting experience? โœจ It's in this exceptional setting that the Angkor Ultra Trail takes place annually, celebrating its 9th edition this year ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™€๏ธ.

This extraordinary event, approved by the Ministry of Tourism and the Cambodian National Olympic Committee, was conceived by Jean-Claude Le Cornec a few years ago ๐Ÿ’ก. This former marathon runner, who has pounded the pavement from Paris to Gao to Dakar, crossed the United States along Route 66, the Marathon des Sables, Colorado, Trans Atlas, Trans Cappadocia... (and the list goes on) ๐Ÿ˜ฒ, is also the founder of SDPO (Sport, Development, Performance, Organization). This organization brings together professionals and sports enthusiasts from all walks of life (doctors ๐Ÿฉบ, physiotherapists, photographers ๐Ÿ“ธ, cameramen, journalists, IT specialistsโ€ฆ) allowing the Ultra Trail of Angkor to have been a reality since 2016. Already more than 1,200 trail runners from around the globe ๐ŸŒŽ have had the privilege to tread the temples of Siem Reap, traverse jungles ๐Ÿ’, rice fields ๐ŸŒพ, and meadows surrounding the gem of Angkor, and meet the local populations. If you too wish to join the journey for the UTA, pack your bags for January. Indeed, at that time of the year, the dry season is well under way, offering temperatures ranging from 25ยฐC to 30ยฐC. However, be wary of heat stroke and the ambient humidity that will definitely make you sweat it out during your run ๐Ÿค’.

Speaking of the race, it's high time to talk about the events! Whether you're casual runners or seasoned trail runners, joggers or Sunday hikers, you'll find the perfect distance to challenge yourself ๐Ÿ™Œ. Indeed, the Angkor Trail isn't just one single course but rather 8 races all taking place in the heart of the Angkor Archaeological Park ๐ŸคŒ. Short, long, trail, hikes ๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ, Nordic walking, there's truly something for every taste and level! For instance, you could test your endurance on the Ultra Trail of 100 km or the 64 km of the "Bayon Trail". Part of the marathon team? ๐Ÿซฃ No problem! A 42 km is also on the agenda. And for those who prefer discovering the wonders of Angkor on shorter distances: the "Temple Run" of 16 km and "Elephant Trail Angkor" of 8 km will fit you like a glove ๐ŸฅŠ. Finally, if you're looking to split the difference, you might be tempted by the 32 km of the "Jungle Trail" ๐Ÿ˜‰. In short, trails galore! But when thereโ€™s no more, there's Angkor. The UTA organizers have of course thought of walkers with a hike and a Nordic walk of 18 km ๐Ÿ‘.

No matter the distance chosen, you'll be running, walking, and feasting your eyes on a landscape 1,000 years old! ๐Ÿคฉ You'll navigate among some of the 200 mountain temples of the ancient Khmer capital. Right there, the exotism and the sense of adventure will reach their peak. And when you see the tropical jungle ๐ŸŒด, which covers a good part of the 400 kmยฒ of the territory, you'll reach a level of awe close to 100% ๐Ÿ˜. Indeed, Mother Nature has left one of her most beautiful masterpieces at Angkor ๐Ÿ–ผ. The lush vegetation invading the temples, the ground, the sky ๐ŸŒŒ, and even the water of the numerous ponds in the park, will tickle your adventurous soul and make you feel like you're discovering the mystical "Lost City" ๐Ÿค . Landscapes of raw, infinite beauty where nature, stone, and light align, that's the magic ๐Ÿช„ of Angkor โœจ. We haven't told you everything yet! The park is also inhabited! ๐Ÿ‘ป Not by deities frequenting the Khmer ruins, but by villagers ๐Ÿ . Along your way, you'll have the ultimate chance to pass through small villages and their rice fields, feeling the enthusiasm of the Cambodian people cheering you on ๐Ÿ“ฃ. Their smiles will undoubtedly give you the strength to finish your race ๐Ÿ˜. Speaking of end hunger, after having your fill of sights and heartwarming experiences along your route, your taste buds will come into play ๐Ÿ‘…. Bai sach chrouk (pork and rice dish), fish amok, nom banh chok (Khmer noodles)... Which Cambodian specialties will you fall for? ๐Ÿคค

So, that's the Angkor Ultra Trail for you, offering panoramas of surprising diversity, an excellent post-race experience, all topped off with the kindness of people you'll meet during your journey. An experience like this is unforgettable ๐Ÿ™ˆ. And to make this adventure even sweeter, a portion of your entry fee will be donated to the 3 NGOs supported by the UTA since its first edition ๐Ÿค.

So, it's high time to book your bib and come tread the Cambodian soil! ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ

5 reasons to join this race

A Breathtaking Setting ๐Ÿคฉ
The UTA is among the few races allowed in the natural and cultural gem of Angkor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This offers a unique opportunity to run in the heart of this extraordinary place ๐Ÿ˜ฒ. Amid lush vegetation and the majestic ruins of ancient Khmer temples (Phnom bok, To temple, Prรจ Rup, Bat chu, Ta prohm...), you'll hardly know where to look - and sometimes even where to step, with the impressive roots covering the trails ๐Ÿค•. Experience Angkor in a way like no other! The temples await to make your experience unforgettable.
Combining Sports and Cultural Discovery ๐Ÿค
Jean-Claude Le Cornec's vision in creating this unparalleled event was to offer much more than a simple athletic challenge, but a deep dive into the countryโ€™s history and culture ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ญ. 'If running or walking were our only goals, we'd miss out on unforgettable moments' is the motto of SDPO, the organization behind the Ultra Trail of Angkor. Indeed, you will push your physical limits in this prestigious location, but you'll also get the chance to explore the soul of Angkor, meet numerous villagers along your path, and share a moment or a smile with them ๐Ÿ˜„.
Challenges for Everyone with a Unique Twist ๐Ÿค—
While the UTA offers stunningly diverse panoramas, the event organizers have also made sure thereโ€™s a challenge that suits everyone. With 8 events on the agenda: trail running, Nordic walking, hiking, short and long distances, ranging from 8 km to 100 km, thereโ€™s something for every runner! ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ However, even if the courses don't pose particular difficulties with their relatively flat terrain (apart from the 64 km and 100 km ones), participants will still need to adapt to Angkor's very specific playing field: humidity, heat, giant roots, sandy soil, that's the magic of UTA ๐Ÿช„.
An Outstanding Organizing Team ๐Ÿ”
To make this experience unique and memorable, Jean-Claude Le Cornec has surrounded himself with an incredibly competent team, made up of sports professionals and enthusiasts from all walks of life. Doctors ๐Ÿฅผ, physiotherapists, photographers, cameramen, journalists, computer scientists... Each contributes in their own way to building the event and making it possible๐Ÿ‘Œ. This dedicated team even arrives 2 weeks in advance to ensure everything is set for the big day! Furthermore, to secure the expansive site of Angkor, which spans over 400 m2, the UTA organization team can count on the invaluable assistance of the police and royal gendarmerie, local NGOs, the Cambodian National Olympic Committee, and the Ministry of Tourism. Everything is designed to ensure the best possible experience and leave each participant with wonderful memories ๐Ÿค—.
A Race with a Big Heart โค๏ธ
Granted, it might not be the throng of supporters youโ€™d find at the New York or Paris marathon, but rest assured: you'll be sharing plenty of high-fives! Throughout your journey, Cambodians from nearby villages will come out to cheer you on and give you the strength to finish your event. You wonโ€™t find such joy, kindness, and smiles anywhere else ๐Ÿ˜„. The Ultra Trail of Angkor (UTA) also champions solidarity ๐Ÿค. The event supports 3 NGOs, which have been receiving donations from participants since the first edition. Participants can choose how much they wish to donate to the NGOs upon registration.

A distance for every taste

  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 4:00 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 500mD+
  • 4 ITRA points

A few more words

For this 8th edition, the traditional Ultra Trail of 100 km is back in action. Without further ado, let's unveil the course for this new distance, the longest of the UTA.

The race will start at the break of dawn ๐Ÿ from the Terrace of the Elephants. With sleepy eyes and a headlamp on your forehead, youโ€™ll embark on this long and beautiful adventure! Your first steps will take you running past several Buddhist temples: Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Ta Som, and along the Jayatataka Baray reservoir. Youโ€™ll be privileged to witness the sunrise over Angkor, a sight not to be missed! ๐ŸŒ„ Next, the East Baray area, with its nature trails and villages, awaits your discovery. At km 30, the impressive Phnom Bok temple will stand ready to challenge you ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ.

Prepare yourself to tackle the 700 steps of this edifice... ๐Ÿ˜จ But know that a splendid view awaits at the top! ๐Ÿ˜ Your return to the Angkor site will take you past the Eastern Baray (a dry water reservoir), and through rice fields, villages, and always more temples: Banteay Srei, Pre Rup, Bat Chum, Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo... You will cross the French Bridge ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท to get back near the Bayon Temple. Take a moment to marvel at this impressive religious monument! For your final stretch, the western region of Angkor will welcome you on its trails before a grand finish at the Terrace of the Elephants! ๐Ÿ˜

GPX
  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 4:00 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 500mD+
  • 2 ITRA points

A few more words

Interested in the experience of a long trail, without hitting the 100 km mark? The "Bayon Trail Angkor" with its 64 km is perfect for you! It's the ideal opportunity to experience the thrill of a long distance without the extremes of an Ultra Trail ๐Ÿ‘Œ. You'll start the Bayon Trail at night ๐ŸŒ™, headlamp fixed, launching from the 350m long Elephant Terrace, alongside the runners of the 100 km Ultra Trail.

Right from the start, in the darkness, you'll feel like you're towering over the Royal Square of Angkor Thom. The first kilometers will plunge you into this adventure beyond the temple time โณ. You'll cross several Buddhist temples, such as Preah Khan, Neak Pean, and Ta Som, skirting the Jayatataka Baray reservoir ๐Ÿ’ง. And of course, you'll be lucky enough to witness the sunrise โ˜€๏ธ in this exceptional place ๐ŸŒ„. After 10 km, you'll head to the East Barai region, where you'll run on nature trails for 20 km.

Along the way, you'll likely cross paths with some villagers who'll cheer you on ๐Ÿ’“ for the rest of your race. At km 30, the impressive Phnom Bok temple awaits you, ready to challenge you with its 700 steps ๐Ÿ˜ฐ. Your calves might burn at this stage, but it's worth it, promise! Once at the top, you can admire the panoramic view of the Angkor site ๐Ÿ˜. By then, you'll be halfway through!

After passing the Ankorian reservoir, you'll return to Angkor, passing by the dry Eastern Baray, crossing rice paddies, villages, and temples: Banteay Srei, Prรจ Rup, Bat Chum, Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, Ta Keo... At the end of your 64 km journey, after crossing the French Bridge Angkor, the Elephant Terrace near the Bayon Temple will mark the incredible end to this extraordinary adventure ๐Ÿ‘.

GPX
  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 6:00 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 380mD+
  • 1 point ITRA

A few more words

For budding marathoners ๐ŸŒฟ looking for new challenges, a 42 km marathon is also lined up at the UTA! ๐Ÿƒ

For this marathon, you have the option to don your fanciest costume ๐Ÿฆธโ€โ™‚๏ธ (though it's not mandatory). Your journey starts in the East Barai region ๐Ÿ. Winding through rice paddies and stunning natural landscapes of breathtaking beauty, you'll navigate through a series of small villages against the backdrop ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธ of the Angkor temples. Phnom Bok, Banteay Srei, Prรจ Rup, Bat Chum, Prasat Kravan, Banteay Kdei, Ta Prohm, and Ta Keo are just some of the Khmer wonders you'll discover with every step ๐Ÿ˜. Your finish line will be at the Bayon Temple, on the magnificent Elephant Terrace ๐Ÿ˜. Without a doubt, these 42 km of trails will offer you thrills, surprises, and continuous wonder!

GPX
  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 7:00 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 110mD+

A few more words

Can't decide between the marathon's 42 km and the 16 km "Temple Run"? No worries, the "Jungle Trail" is the perfect middle ground with its 32 km ๐Ÿ˜‰.

The route will be the same as the Marathon, but you'll start at Phnom Bok ๐Ÿ. After crossing through rice fields, villages, and majestic temples, and once you've crossed the French Bridge Angkor, your challenge will conclude on the Elephant Terrace! ๐Ÿ˜

GPX
  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 8:35 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 50mD+

A few more words

You can take part in the Ultra Trail of Angkor without a bib number, without timing, and with no time limit! Indeed, the "Walk and Hike" of 18 km is accessible to everyone and promises wonderful surprises ๐Ÿ˜. Following the same route as the "Temple Run", you'll be amazed discovering Angkor in all its diversity, crossing through villages, rice fields, jungles, root-engulfed temples, and trees characteristic of the regionโ€ฆ ๐Ÿ‘Œ

  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 8:35 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 50mD+

A few more words

Participate in the "Nordic Walking" event and practice this discipline in a breathtakingly beautiful site, where temples and nature are seamlessly intertwined!

The course is identical to that of the Temple Run, covering 18 km ๐Ÿ˜‰.

  • Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 8:45 AM
  • Elevation gainย :ย 48mD+ / 30mD-

A few more words

The 8 km of the "Elephant Trail Angkor" will start at the Elephant Terrace ๐Ÿ˜, leading you through the jungle as you zigzag from one path to the next amidst lush nature.

GPX

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

You can pick up your bib at the "Angkor Paradise Hotel", on Thursday, January 16, 2025, from 10am to 7pm and Friday, January 17, 2025, from 9am to 8pm.

Runners must report to the starting line or pre-race briefing at the Elephant Terrace at least 30 minutes before the start time to attend the pre-race briefing.

  • For the 100 km "UTA 100" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 4am

  • For the 64 km "Bayon Trail Angkor" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 4am

  • For the 42 km "Angkor Trail Marathon" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 6am

  • For the 32 km "Jungle Trail Angkor" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 7am

  • For the 18 km "Temple Run Angkor" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:30am

  • For the 18 km "Nordic Walking Angkor" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:35am

  • For the 18 km "Angkor Hike and Trek" (non-timed): starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:35am

  • For the 8 km "Elephant Trail Angkor" race: starts on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 8:45am

  • For the 100 km "UTA 100" race: every 10 km to 12 km on average with refreshments of water/dried fruits/fresh fruits/dry cake, refreshment at km 32 at "Phnom Bok" with water and solid food (instant noodles) and refreshment at km 64 "Elephant Terrace" with water/dried fruits/fresh fruits/instant noodle soup/stir-fried pork rice/stir-fried chicken noodles

  • For the 64 km "Bayon Trail Angkor" race: every 10 km to 12 km on average, refreshment at km 32 at "Phnom Bok" with water and solid food (instant noodles) and refreshment at km 64 "Elephant Terrace" with water/dried fruits/fresh fruits/instant noodle soup/stir-fried pork rice/stir-fried chicken noodles

  • For the 42 km "Angkor Trail Marathon": every 5 to 8 km on average with refreshments of water/dried fruits/fresh fruits and an instant noodle soup offered at km 32 "Phnom Bok".

  • For the 32 km "Jungle Trail Angkor": every 5 to 8 km on average with refreshments of water/dried fruits/fresh fruits

  • For the 18 km "Temple Run Angkor": every 5 to 8 km on average with refreshments of water/dried fruits/fresh fruits

  • For the 18 km "Nordic Walking Angkor" (non-timed): every 5 to 8 km on average with refreshments of water/dried fruits/fresh fruits

  • For the 18 km "Angkor Hike and Trek" (non-timed): every 5 to 8 km on average

  • For the 8 km "Elephant Trail Angkor": mid-way refreshment with water/dried fruits/fresh fruits

Please note that km 64 also serves as a life base with a rest area, medical assistance, locker room and hot dishes will be offered such as white rice, pork or chicken stir-fried rice or noodles.

  • For the 100 km "UTA 100" race: 20 years old

  • For the 64 km "Bayon Trail Angkor" race: 20 years old

  • For the 42 km "Angkor Trail Marathon": 20 years old

  • For the 32 km "Jungle Trail Angkor": 20 years old

  • For the 18 km "Temple Run Angkor": 18 years old

  • For the 18 km "Nordic Walking Angkor" (non-timed): 16 years old

  • For the 18 km "Angkor Hike and Trek" (non-timed): 16 years old

  • For the 8 km "Elephant Trail Angkor": 16 years old

  • For the 100 km "UTA 100" race: 21h53, which is an average speed of 4.57 km/h

  • For the 64 km "Bayon Trail Angkor" race: 14h, an average speed of 4.57 km/h

  • For the 42 km "Angkor Trail Marathon": 7h53, an average speed of 5.33 km/h

  • For the 32 km "Jungle Trail Angkor": 6h, an average speed of 5.33 km/h

  • For the 18 km "Temple Run Angkor": 3h33, an average speed of 5.33 km/h

  • For the 8 km "Elephant Trail Angkor": 2h, an average speed of 4km/h

Here is the list of mandatory equipment:

  • Water reserve: capacity 1.5 L for the 100 km race and 1L for the 64 km race

  • Gels and energy bars or nutritional products: for the 100 km and 64 km races

  • Cap or equivalent: for the 100 km, 64 km, 42 km, 32 km, 18 km, and 8 km races

  • Headlamp with spare batteries: for the 100 km and 64 km races

  • Survival blanket: for the 100 km race

  • 1 whistle: for the 100 km race

  • Reflective armband (or reflective strips on the bag): for the 100 km and the 64 km races

  • 1 charged mobile phone: for the 100 km race

  • Nordic walking stick: for the 8 km hike

  • Visible identification card with an emergency phone number to call: for the 100 km, 64 km, 42 km, 32 km, 18 km, and 8 km races

The final ranking, both general and by category for the 100 km, 64 km, 42 km, 32 km, 18 km, and 8 km races will be announced on Saturday, January 18, 2025, after the last runner of each event finishes. The awards for the 100 km, 64 km, 42 km, 32 km, 18 km, and 8 km races will be given out at the time of the last participants' arrival (the time and place will be communicated later).

  • Each runner will receive a medal corresponding to their event

  • The top 5 finishers in the general ranking of each event, across all categories (men and women separated) will be awarded: Elephant Trail, Nordic Walking, Temple Run, Jungle Trail, Angkor Trail Marathon, Bayon Trail Angkor, and Ultra Trail Angkor

  • Also, finishers of the 100 km, 64 km, and 42 km races will receive a "Finisher 2025" shirt

Mineral water and other drinks will be available at each refreshment station. However, the organization does not provide salt tablets during the event. You will need to carefully plan your drink preparation before the race!

Yes, the bib provides access to the site. However, this pass does not allow for the visitation of the Angkor temples.

No, you will need to bring your own pins or a bib holder.

Yes, external assistance is allowed but only near the refreshment zones.

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