The association Les Intenses Sessions, in collaboration with the agency Yaka Events, is organizing the 2ndedition edition of the Ultra Trail Grand Colombier.

The program features eight trail running events, open to both men and women, whether or not they are licensed: 

• UTGC 120 km, 
• UTGC 120km 5-person relay, 
• Ultra 80 km, 
• Ultra 80km 3-person relay,
• 45 km by Mac Sport, 
• 30km trail run, 
• 16-km Gravel Run
• 10K Trail Run.

Participation in the event is subject to the mandatory submission by participating runners (but not athletes with disabilities using a Joëlette) to the organizer of: 

Minors:

For minors of all nationalities, participation in a competition is subject to the mandatory submission to the organizer of either:

– A valid “Athlé Compétition,” “Athlé Entreprise,” or “Athlé Running” license issued by the FFA, valid as of the date of the event. Other licenses issued by the FFA (such as “Santé,” “Encadrement,” and “Découverte”) are not accepted.

The Athlé Entreprise license is issued in accordance with the FFA's General Regulations.

That is to say: – A health questionnaire completed jointly by the athlete and the persons exercising parental authority, the content of which is specified by a joint order of the Minister of Health and the Minister of Sports (see the appendix to Administrative Circular 2025-2026).

The individuals exercising parental authority over the minor must certify to the FFA that the answer to each question on the questionnaire is “no.” Otherwise, they are required to provide a medical certificate dated within the last six months attesting that there are no medical contraindications to participating in track and field or the relevant competitive sport.

If foreign participants are required to provide a medical certificate stating that there are no contraindications, the certificate must be written in French, dated, signed, and include the physician’s identification, regardless of whether the physician is licensed to practice in France. If the certificate is not written in French, a French translation must be provided.

Adults: 

For adults of all nationalities, participation in a competition is subject to the mandatory submission to the organizer of either:

– A valid “Athlé Compétition,” “Athlé Entreprise,” or “Athlé Running” license issued by the FFA, valid as of the date of the event. Other licenses issued by the FFA (such as “Santé” and “Encadrement”) are not accepted;

Either – A certificate (paper, electronic, or QR code) indicating that the individual has completed the Health Prevention Program (or “PPS”) established by the FFA via its dedicated platform, the terms of use for which are also set by the FFA. To be valid, the PPS must have been completed no more than three months prior to the date of the event for which the person wishes to register.

Medical certificates are not accepted.

The organization will allow para-trail runners to participate in the various race formats according to the following table:

Learn all about our support for para-trail runners on our Inclusion page

• UTGC 120KM / Solo

This 120-km course is a true adventure through the wilderness! You’ll traverse varied terrain, mountain ridges, and dense forests, passing by waterfalls and lakes in the Bugey region. With a cumulative elevation gain of 5,000 meters, the UTGC 120 km is a test of endurance, courage, and determination. This race is reserved for the most seasoned and passionate runners, whether competing solo or in a 5-person relay team.

Practical information: 

• Departure: 3:00 a.m.
• Starting Point: Belley
• Distance: 120 km
• 170 km race
• Elevation gain: 5,000 m
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1-liter water supply (1.5 liters recommended), personal water bottle, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility gear
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: From Junior to Master
• UTMB Index: 100M Qualifier
• Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 – Culoz-Béon, on Friday between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM 
• 9 aid stations
• Time restrictions:

• UTGC 120KM / 5-person relay

The UTGC 120 KM Relay is an epic adventure for teams of five, traversing the spectacular mountainous landscapes of the Grand Colombier, where runners tackle challenging elevation gains and technical trails while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

Practical information:

• Distance between checkpoints:

ULTRA 80KM / Solo

 The Grand Colombier 80 km Ultra! Get ready for a major athletic challenge through breathtaking landscapes. With 3,000 meters of elevation gain, this race is reserved for runners eager for a great adventure. The Grand Colombier 80 km Ultra is a demanding course that winds through majestic mountains, lush valleys, and rugged trails, offering runners an unforgettable experience, whether running solo or in a 3-person relay.

Practical information:

• Departure: 6:00 a.m.
• Starting Point: Contrevoz
• Distance: 80 km
• 110 km race
• Elevation gain: 3,000 m
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1-liter water supply (1.5 liters recommended), personal water bottle, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility gear
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: From Junior to Master
• UTMB Index: 100K Qualifier
• Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 – Culoz-Béon, on Friday between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM
• 6 aid stations
• Time restrictions:
•  

ULTRA 80KM / Relay 3

The Ultra 80 km Relay is an intense race for teams of three, in which participants take turns tackling the technical trails and steep climbs of the Grand Colombier, all while being rewarded with magnificent Alpine views and lush green forests.

Practical information:

• Departure: 6:00 a.m.
• Departure Points: Contrevoz
• Total distance: 80 km
• 110 km race
• Elevation gain: 3,000 m
• Stop 1: Contrevoz / Hauteville Plateau
• Hauteville 2-Stage Relay / Col de la Biche
• Stage 3: Col de la Biche / Culoz
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1-liter water bottle, personal cup, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility vest
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: From Junior to Master
• UTMB Index: 20K Qualifier
• Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 – Culoz-Béon, on Friday between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM
• 6 aid stations
• Time restrictions:

Distance between checkpoints: 

45KM BY MAC SPORT Solo

The Grand Colombier Maratrail! An unforgettable sporting experience set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Bugey region. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a passionate amateur, the Grand Colombier Maratrail is open to everyone, offering a unique opportunity to push your limits and achieve your personal goals. With 2,000 meters of elevation gain, this race, which culminates at the summit of Grand Colombier, will be a favorite among the majority of participants.

Practical information:

• • Departure: 7:30 a.m.
  • Starting Point: Hauteville Plateau
  • Distance: 42 km
  • Elevation gain: 2,000 m
  • 62-kilometer race
  • Format: Individual mass start
  • Required equipment: 1-liter water bottle, personal cup, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility vest
  • Recommended equipment: poles
  • Category: From Junior to Master
  • UTMB Index: 50K Qualifier
  • Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 – Culoz-Béon, on Friday between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM and on Saturday between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM

  At the Boost Center gym, 185 Chemin de Lésines, 01110 Plateau in Hauteville on Saturdays between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m.

• 4 aid stations 

  • Time restrictions:
  •  

30KM TRAIL

The Grand Colombier Direct Route! Get ready for a thrilling athletic adventure amidst breathtaking, high-altitude scenery with 1,300 meters of elevation gain. Whether you’re an experienced runner or a nature lover seeking new challenges, the 30 km Grand Colombier race is the perfect opportunity to push yourself and discover the region’s beauty.

Practical information:

• Departure: 5:00 p.m.
• Departure Point: Aqualoisir Center, 01420 Seyssel
• Distance: 30 km
• Elevation gain: 1,400 m
• 44 km time trial
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1.5-liter water supply, personal water bottle, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility gear
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: From Junior to Master
• UTMB Index: 20K Qualifier
• Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 Culoz-Béon, on Friday evening between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM and on Saturday between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM
• 3 aid stations 
•  
• Time restrictions:
•  

16KM GRAVEL RUN

An adventure along the Rhône and its landmarks! A trail run for those who prefer smoother, more accessible routes! 

Come discover trail running here, or test your limits in a fast-paced, intense race along the river.

Practical information:

• Departure: 2:00 p.m.
• Departure Point: Aqualoisir Center, 01420 Seyssel
• Distance: 16 km
• Elevation gain: 0 m
• 16-km race
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1.5-liter water supply, personal water bottle, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility gear
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: Junior to Master
• UTMB Index: None
• Race packet pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 Culoz-Béon, on Friday evening between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM and on Saturday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
• 2 aid stations 
• Time restrictions:

10KM TRAIL RUN

Check out this short route that will take you through the town of Culoz! Starting in the town center, winding through the vineyards and the hairpin turns of the Grand Colombier, enjoy this short run that packs a big punch! Take in the incredible views of the valley.

Practical information:

• Departure: 10:00 a.m.
• Distance: 10 km
• Elevation gain: 300 m
• 13-kilometer race
• Format: Individual mass start
• Required equipment: 1.5-liter water supply, personal water bottle, rain jacket, emergency blanket, fully charged headlamp, spare lamp, new batteries or a fully charged battery pack, and high-visibility gear
• Recommended equipment: poles
• Category: Cadet to Master
• UTMB Index: None
• Race bib pickup: At the gym in the En Verbaou Recreation Area, Av. Jean Falconnier, 01350 – Culoz-Béon, on Friday evening between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM and on Saturday between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM
• 1 refreshment station at the finish line
•  
• Time restrictions:
•  

Online registration will be available on the website below starting November 19, 2025:

www.ultratrailgrandcolombier.com

The rates are: 

• UTGC 120 km: €140
• UTGC 120km 5-person relay: €190
• Ultra 80 km: €90
• Ultra 80km 3-person relay: €120
• 45 km by MacSport: €55
• 30km Trail Run: €40
• Gravel Run 16 km: €24
• 10K Trail Run: €18

Please note: There is no on-site registration.

The organization cannot be held liable for theft, loss, accidents, or injuries resulting from poor health or failure to comply with the race rules. Participants and their beneficiaries agree not to bring legal action against the organization in the event of an accident, nor against the private owners of the land crossed, as runners accept the risks inherent in trail running.

Since part of the event takes place on roads open to traffic, competitors must stay on the right side of the road and obey all traffic laws.

No vehicles, including bicycles, are permitted to accompany the runners.

The route runs almost entirely along private roads: property owners grant permission to use these roads on the day of the event and during the official course inspection. Outside of these two dates, it is prohibited to enter these private properties

The UTGC 120km, the UTGC 120km 5-person relay, the Ultra 80km, the Ultra 80km 3-person relay, the 45km By Mac Sport, and the 30km Trail are subject to time limits, as detailed in the description of each race in Article 4 of these rules.

These time limits are calculated to allow participants to reach the finish line within the maximum time allowed, while making any necessary stops (for rest, meals, etc.). To be allowed to continue the race, competitors must depart from the checkpoint before the set cutoff time (regardless of when they arrived at the checkpoint).

Any runners who fall behind the official time limits are not permitted to continue the race. 

Their chip will be collected or their race bib will be cut off, and they will make their way to the starting line either on their own or via transportation arranged by the organizers if their health condition requires it.

All runners are required to notify the organizer before leaving the race site to avoid unnecessary searches.

Unless injured, a runner must not drop out anywhere other than at a checkpoint, a refreshment station, or with a volunteer marshal. If their health does not permit it, they must contact race headquarters.

If a runner decides to withdraw between two checkpoints, they must proceed to the nearest checkpoint to report their withdrawal.

Repatriation works as follows:

• Runners who withdraw but whose condition does not require medical evacuation must make their own way to the nearest evacuation point as quickly as possible.
• If the runner’s condition requires it, the safety control center will arrange for a vehicle to transport him back as soon as possible.

First, all registration forms must be completed and submitted through the registration website.

Competitors will be asked to arrive in groups during their assigned time slot in order to limit the flow of people and prevent large, continuous crowds from gathering on site. Information to this effect will be posted on the website and social media. 

Runners must have the required identification items: a timing chip and a race bib, on which it is recommended to write their first and last names and the contact number of a person to reach in case of an emergency.

Information on race bib pickup is provided in the description of each event in Section 4 of these rules. 

If a runner fails to show up, no refund will be issued.

The race number must be worn on the chest and be visible at all times during the race. Race number belts are permitted provided they ensure that the race number is clearly visible during checks conducted during the race and at the finish line (number visible on the front).

Transferring race numbers is prohibited. If a runner is unable to participate in the race, they must notify the organizers, who will then decide what to do with their race number. 

The race will be timed using chip timing. All participants will receive an electronic chip when they pick up their race bibs.

The electronic timing system is selected based on strict reliability criteria. Despite the tests conducted by the manufacturers, there is always a very small percentage of instances where a participant is not detected. The lack of data resulting from this failure to detect a participant will prevent the organizer from including the official or actual time of the participant in question in the rankings. The organizer cannot be held responsible for this.

To reduce plastic waste, no disposable utensils (cutlery, cups, bowls) will be provided at any checkpoint or aid station. We encourage you to bring your own utensils if you plan to eat hot meals at the aid stations.

If you choose to use poles, you must use them for the entire duration of the race. You may not start the race without poles or pick them up along the way. No poles are allowed in drop bags. The use of poles may be prohibited in certain areas marked by specific signs along the course, for safety or environmental reasons.

The required equipment is listed in the description of each race under Section 4 of these rules.

If you have any questions about the required equipment, please feel free to contact the organizers.

Personal assistance is permitted only at aid stations, within a radius of no more than 50 meters.

Motorized vehicles are strictly prohibited, with the exception of vehicles belonging to the organizing committee, security, medical staff, and those necessary for the aid stations. Any runner who receives assistance from such vehicles is subject to disqualification and removal from the race.

Since part of the event takes place at night, runners must have a fully charged headlamp, a spare headlamp, new batteries, or a fully charged charger. 

Runners must wear a high-visibility garment.

Marked trails (UTGC flags, directional signs, and ground markings made with red biodegradable spray paint), with cable clamps along the trails. 

The organization is implementing an emergency response plan that includes: a doctor or doctors in constant contact with an emergency dispatch center, nurses, two ambulances, first responders, and traffic controllers. 

A competitor must withdraw from the competition immediately if instructed to do so by a member of the official medical team.

Safety is everyone's responsibility, especially that of runners.

Runners are advised to carry a note detailing their current medical treatment, contraindications, and allergies, or to write this information on the back of their race bib.

Every runner is the first line of defense for race safety. They must quickly and accurately raise the alarm if they witness an accident, get lost, or realize that other runners have gotten lost. 

It is the responsibility of a runner who is in difficulty or injured to call for help:

• When reporting to a first-aid station, a marshal, or a refreshment station
• Or by calling the race control center
• Or by asking another runner to alert emergency services

Participants expressly authorize the organizers and their affiliates, such as partners and media outlets, to use any still or audiovisual images in which they may appear, taken during their participation in the event or in connection with the activities organized, on any medium, including promotional and/or advertising materials, worldwide and for the longest period permitted by law, regulations, and applicable treaties, including any extensions that may be granted to such period.

Participants expressly authorize the organizers and their assignees to use drones to capture aerial footage of the course, the race packs, and individual participants for the purpose of creating visual content. In addition, drones operated by professionals may fly over the race at a height close to the runners.

The following will be invited to the podium, with no accumulation of awards:

• The top 3 finishers in the overall time category for men and women (solo) 
• The first men's, women's, and mixed relays
• The first place finisher in each category: Junior, Espoir, Seniors, MO, M1, M2, M3, M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9 (Men and Women) 

Liability Insurance: The organizer has taken out liability insurance for the duration of the event to cover financial liabilities arising from the organizer’s own liability, that of its employees, and that of the participants. The insurance is provided by the French Athletics Federation.

Personal accident insurance: Licensed participants are covered by the insurance included with their license; unlicensed participants will be automatically insured by the organization through Generali via AIAC Brokerage. 

We would like to remind you of the importance of purchasing personal insurance that covers bodily injury resulting from sports activities.

The organization has set up a Beticketing cancellation insurance plan in partnership with Assur-Connect. Runners can opt for the cancellation insurance option, which costs 11.5% of their registration fee. 

Runners may cancel their insurance coverage up to the day before the races begin for a valid reason, as specified in the terms of the contract. In such cases, their registration fees will be refunded. A 20% deductible may apply, as provided for in the special terms and conditions.

Get a refund for your race bib easily in case of unforeseen circumstances.

80% refund available up to 72 hours after the event

Covers all unforeseeable and sudden events

Refund within 72 hours via bank transfer

How does it work? 

Insurance Terms and Conditions

If circumstances require, the organization reserves the right to modify the courses, start times, time limits, and the locations of aid stations and medical stations at any time, or to cancel or suspend the event.

No refunds will be issued due to the costs incurred in organizing the event. 

In accordance with Articles L.232-1 et seq. of the Sports Code, the use of performance-enhancing drugs is prohibited.

In accordance with Article R.232-48 of the Sports Code, the organizer shall provide suitable facilities for the person responsible for supervision.

Article 22:

The information collected is processed electronically for the purpose of

the organization and promotion of the Ultra-Trail Grand Colombier. In accordance with the French Data Protection Act of January 6, 1978, as amended in 2004, you have the right to access and correct any information concerning you, which you may exercise by contacting: Email address 

You may also, for legitimate reasons, object to the processing of your data concerning you.

All participants are informed that their results may be published on the Ultra-Trail Grand Colombier timekeeper’s website and on the French Athletics Federation’s website.

If a participant wishes to object to this publication, they must expressly notify the organizer and the FFA at the following email address: dpo@athle.fr

Changing rooms and restrooms are available for runners.

A luggage storage area will be available for competitors. 

Competitors will be able to drop off their belongings there and pick them up after the race in one of three ways:

• For each race: Runners may leave their bags at the starting line. The organizers will transport them to the finish line.
• Runners can also drop off their bags directly at the finish line, where they can pick them up after the race.
• Drop bag: For runners in the UTGC 120km race, participants may leave a drop bag at the race packet pickup. The organizers will transport it to the aid station and then return it to the starting line, where runners can pick it up after the race.

You must present your race number to claim your bag.

The organizer assumes no liability for any damage (including theft, breakage, loss, etc.) to participants’ personal belongings left in the cloakroom.

Any complaint arising in connection with the event must be submitted in writing, including the participant’s first and last name and bib number, and sent to the Organizer’s headquarters.

The parties agree that any legal action must be preceded by mediation.

In the event of a dispute, the parties agree that the court in Bourg-en-Bresse shall have territorial jurisdiction.

If a runner violates the race rules, the race directors or the organizing committee may impose a penalty according to the following table:

The event is firmly committed to an eco-friendly approach, featuring:

• the signing of an eco-signage charter, 
• No disposable cups or cutlery: each runner must bring their own utensils
• the "Trail by Train Tour" initiative, which promotes train travel to reach the events
• waste sorting. 

The runners pass through a pristine, protected natural environment designated as a Natura 2000 site. 

Runners are committed to protecting the flora and fauna, which are particularly vulnerable.

As such, runners are prohibited, under penalty of disqualification, from leaving the marked trails; from damaging or disturbing the environment or plant and animal species in any way; from shouting or using any mechanical or electronic device that causes noise pollution; and from littering with any type of waste.

Each competitor acknowledges having read these rules (available online or upon request) and agrees to abide by all of their provisions. The competitor solemnly pledges not to start early and to complete the entire course before crossing the finish line. For further information, please contact the French Athletics Federation: www.athle.com

In accordance with the amended French Data Protection Act of January 6, 1978, any registered user may exercise their right to access, correct, or object to the processing of their personal data by the organization.

Have a great race.

The Organizer