MessengerPovoação Trail
Event summary
The Povoação Trail returns for its 6th edition on March 15, 2026, in the breathtaking region of Povoação, São Miguel Island (Azores). This nature-based event features four distances — Trail Ultra (50 km), Trail (30 km), Trail Sprint (15 km), and a non-competitive 9 km hike — offering something for every level of trail runner.
Runners will navigate technical, scenic trails, including forests, agricultural paths, streams, and mountain slopes, with significant elevation gain (up to D+3500). The Ultra and main Trail events are designed for experienced athletes, while the Sprint and Walk provide accessible options for newcomers.
Organized by HL Runners Club in partnership with the Municipality of Povoação, this event offers a supportive and adventurous atmosphere. It’s also part of the local São Miguel Trail Circuit and may contribute to the ATRP national ranking.
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Plan itInformation
Start Times (March 15, 2026)
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08:00 – Trail Ultra (50 km)
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08:30 – Trail (30 km)
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10:00 – Trail Sprint (15 km)
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10:05 – Walk (9 km)
🕒 Award Ceremony: 15:00
Bib Pickup:
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March 14: 14:00–19:00 (Pavilhão Municipal da Povoação)
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March 15: 07:00–07:55
Start/Finish Locations:
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Ultra and Trail: Start/finish at Jardim Municipal da Vila da Povoação
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Sprint and Walk: Start in Nossa Senhora dos Remédios and finish at Jardim Municipal
Time Limits:
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Trail Ultra: 11h (cut-offs at km 27 and 40)
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Trail: 7h30
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Trail Sprint: 4h30
Age Restrictions:
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Competitive races: 18+
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Walk: All ages (minors under 14 must be accompanied)
Registration Deadline: February 23, 2026
Registration Link: www.stopandgo.net
Surface & Format:
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Trail through natural terrain: forest, dirt, streams, and elevation
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Point-to-point and looped formats depending on the race
Timing: Chip-based
Course Services:
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Marked control points and aid stations
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Surprise checkpoints for fairness
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Emergency contact printed on bibs
Weather: Expect wet and mild Azorean conditions in March
Regulation here.
Location
get directionsBenefits
🎽 Athlete Kit: Technical t-shirt, bib, timing chip (competitive races), branded bag, assorted gifts
🏅 Finisher Prizes: Official finisher gift + commemorative medal
⏱️ Timing: Chip timing for competitive races with real-time results
🛟 Safety: On-course emergency services, contact number on bibs
🛡️ Insurance: Personal accident and liability coverage
🥤 Aid Stations:
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Trail Ultra: 5 full stations + water points + post-race meal
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Trail: 3 stations + post-race meal
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Sprint & Walk: 1 station + post-race meal
🚿 Facilities: Showers available at venue
🚌 Transport: Shuttle from Pavilhão Municipal to Sprint/Walk start location
🏆 Podiums & Prizes:
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Trophies for top 3 overall and age group (male/female)
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Team awards for top 3 teams
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Prize money for Ultra, Trail, and Sprint winners
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Bonus €500 for breaking Ultra course record (5:16:43)
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Special “Troféu António Amaral” for 50+ athletes who meet milestone
📸 Media: Photo/video coverage for promotional use
