MessengerPOIARES TRAIL 2026
Event summary
The Poiares Trail 2026 is a trail running event scheduled for February 22, 2026, in Vila Nova de Poiares, Portugal. This event features four competitive races and a walking option, including a 35 km trail with 1800 m elevation gain, a 22 km trail with 1000 m elevation gain, a 13 km mini trail with 400 m elevation gain, and a 35 km relay race divided into three stages for teams of three.
The races are open to a wide range of participants: the 35 km race is for athletes aged 20 and above, the 22 km race allows participants aged 18 and 19 in a specific category, and the 13 km mini trail and relay race accept participants from 16 years old. All races are certified by ATRP and have time limits with checkpoints to ensure participant safety and race integrity.
The event is known for its challenging mountainous terrain with significant elevation changes, requiring athletes to be semi-autonomous and prepared for varied weather conditions. The atmosphere combines competitive spirit with environmental respect and includes team relay events and a walking option, making it accessible for different levels and promoting a community spirit.
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Plan itInformation
Age categories/divisions:
• PT35K: 20 years and older
• PT22K: Sub20 category for 18-19 years
• PT13K and Estafetas 35K: 16 years and older
• Parental authorization required for under 18
Start/finish locations: Mercado Municipal de Vila Nova de Poiares
Start times per category/distance:
• PT35K and Estafetas 35K: 09:00
• PT22K: 09:45
• PT13K (Mini Trail and Walk): 10:00
Cut-off times:
• PT35K and Estafetas 35K: 8 hours
• PT22K: 6 hours
• PT13K: 4 hours
Participants limit:
• PT35K: 240 athletes
• PT22K: 450 athletes
• PT13K: 400 athletes
• Estafetas 35K: 20 teams (60 athletes)
• Caminhada: 150 participants
Surface types: Mountain trail with significant elevation gain and loss
Course format: Single-stage races and relay with three segments (12-15 km each)
Timing method: Electronic chip timing incorporated in bib
Toilets and aid station placement:
• 3 aid stations for 35K and Estafetas
• 2 aid stations for 22K
• 1 aid station for 13K
• Final aid station at finish arena
Parking and shuttle details: Information available on event website
Prizes:
• Participation finisher prize for all classified
• Trophies for top three teams in PT35K and PT22K
• Trophies for individual top finishers by category
• Podium awards for relay teams by gender and mixed category
Location
get directionsRaces
Trail Run 35 km
Trail Run 22 km
Trail Run 13 km
Walking 13 km
Trail Run 35 km Relay
Kids Race
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib number, chip timing device incorporated in bib, race towel
🏅 Finisher prize: participation award (finisher prize) and finisher trophy
⏱️ Electronic chip timing with individual and team relay classification
🛟 Safety support: first aid stations at strategic points, emergency contact on bib
🛡️ Insurance: personal accident and civil liability insurance included
🥤 Aid stations: water and solid food at multiple points depending on race distance
🧳 Transfer service for relay teams between transition zones
🍽️ Hot meal provided at the end of the event
📸 Image rights ceded to the organization for promotional use
