Entries open for Kima qualifiying race finishers

The first batch of entries for Trofeo Kima sold out in 15 minutes this morning, testament to this jaw-dropping race’s position as the most sought-after event for skyrunners.

The entry portal opened early this morning, offering 200 race entries exclusively for finishers of the Livigno Skymarathon and Grigne Skymarathon. Within minutes, they were sold out. Athletes from 14 different nations had evidently been waiting with their finger on the button, acknowledges Ilde Marchetti, president of Associazione Kima: “We knew that this moment had been eagerly anticipated, but we didn’t expect these 200 entries that we’d reserved for our two official qualifier races to get snapped up so fast.” Noting the time difference could have played a role, he continues: “Given the high number of international entrants, we may shift the opening time of this first entry window later in the day so that Americans don’t have to wake up so early.”

Many athletes were left empty-handed: “We’ve received emails and seen comments online from expectant runners who’d experienced hiccups at the payment stage and therefore missed out. In such cases, we’re really sorry but the entries were based on a first-come-first-served basis.”

The next opportunity to gain an entry to Trofeo Kima will be in early January: “On Friday, 12th January 2024, the remaining 150 entries will be launched. This second entry window follow the pattern from 2022: Those with the hopes of running the race will have to prove they’ve completed a series of approved races and have a minimum number of ITRA points (650 for men, 500 for women). Athletes will need to demonstrate a mix of experience and performance.”

The legendary race is scheduled for Saturday, 24th August, with Sunday, 25th August as a back-up in the event of bad weather.

THE ROUTE: Starting and finishing in Filorera, Valmasino. This circular route covers 52 extremely technical kilometres with 4,800 metres of climbing and descending over seven Alpine passes above 2,500 metres of altitude. (Highest point: Cameraccio 2,950 m).

WOMEN’S RECORD: Hillary Gerardi 7h30’38”

MEN’S RECORD: Kilian Jornet 6h09’19”