Messenger2nd Trail Spring Challenge S.A. – Vila Galé
Event summary
The 2nd Trail Spring Challenge S.A. – Vila Galé is a mountain trail running event taking place on March 22, 2026, at Praia Ribeira d’Ilhas in Ericeira. The event features competitive trail races of approximately 20 km (long) and 12 km (short), as well as a non-competitive leisure walk of about 12 km.
Open to participants aged 12 and above (walk) and 18 and above (trail races), the event is part of the Circuito Challenge S.A. 2026 series. The courses traverse natural trails with stunning coastal views, combining mountain terrain with sea vistas.
The race atmosphere encourages environmental awareness and sustainability, including a plogging initiative to collect litter during the walk. The event welcomes a broad range of participants, including inclusive categories for visually impaired athletes with guides, and allows family and friends to enjoy a day at the beach alongside the competition.
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Plan itInformation
Start/finish locations: Praia Ribeira d’ilhas, Ericeira
Start times per category/distance:
• Trail Longo (approx. 20 km): 09:30
• Trail Curto (approx. 12 km): 09:40
• Caminhada (approx. 12 km): 09:45
Bib pick-up time and location: March 22, 2026, from 07:45 to 09:00 at the deck of Praia Ribeira d’ilhas
Participant limit: 500 participants
Cut-off times: Maximum time to complete any race is 4 hours (until 13:30)
Surface types: Natural trails, mountain terrain, paths with grass, asphalt, dirt, mud, sand, loose stones, and coastal views
Course format: Circuit with marked trails using biodegradable tape and temporary spray, with control points and surprise checkpoints
Race routes:
• Trail Longo: approx. 20 km
• Trail Curto: approx. 12 km
• Caminhada: approx. 12 km (non-competitive)
Timing method: Electronic chip timing for Trail Longo and Trail Curto; Caminhada without chip and no classification
Toilets and aid station placement: Water provided at aid stations; athletes must carry their own cups or containers
Prizes: Awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place male and female in each age category for Trail Longo and Trail Curto; prizes for largest team, oldest male and female athletes; finisher medal puzzle for all participants; vouchers and stays at Vila Galé hotels; traditional snacks and drinks at finish
Registration deadline: March 16, 2026, or upon reaching 500 paid registrations
Age categories/divisions:
• Seniors M/F (18-34 years)
• Veterans 35 M/F (35-39 years)
• Veterans 40 M/F (40-44 years)
• Veterans 45 M/F (45-49 years)
• Veterans 50 M/F (50-54 years)
• Veterans 55 M/F (55-59 years)
• Veterans 60 M/F (60-64 years)
• Veterans 65 M/F (65+ years, no upper limit)
Location
get directionsRaces
Trail Run 20 km
Trail Run 12 km
Walking 12 km
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib number, electronic chip (except walkers)
🏅 Finisher prize: puzzle-shaped finisher medal linked to the Circuito Challenge S.A. 2026
⏱️ Timing + live results for Trail Longo and Trail Curto via electronic chip
🛟 Safety support: logistical support and event organization ensuring participant safety
🛡️ Insurance: included sports insurance for all participants
🥤 Aid stations: liquid and solid sports refreshments at mid-course and final aid stations
📸 Photography/video coverage: event photos and videos used for marketing
🏆 Prizes: stays at Vila Galé hotels, vouchers, free entry to next trail, surprise prizes for largest team and oldest athletes
🥤 Post-race refreshments: traditional cakes and tea at finish line
