Italy’s Luca Del Pero and Spain’s Patricia Pineda emerged victorious at this year’s Gorges du Tarn Skyrace, the 11th stage of the 2025 Merrell Skyrunner® World Series.
Set against the dramatic limestone cliffs and deep canyons of southern France’s Gorges du Tarn region, the 25km with 1,900m+ race captivated fans worldwide thanks to live streaming coverage that brought the rugged beauty and intense competition to screens across the globe.
Overall ranking leader, Luca Del Pero of Italy (team Scarpa), known for his explosive climbs and tactical pacing, pushed the pace early and even after a tough battle with Frederic Tranchand of France (team Merrell) Del Pero crossed the finish line first in the men’s field. Tranchand followed less than a minute after and U23 athlete Finlay Grant of the UK (team Scarpa) closed the men’s podium, also taking home the U23 Trofeo Esteban Olivero winner’s bib.
Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Spain’s Patricia Pineda (team La Sportiva) executed a smart, steady race through the steep limestone trails and exposed ridgelines, storming ahead to claim the women’s crown. Celia Balcells of Spain (team Merrell / FEEC) placed second, four minutes behind Pineda and third place went to Alice Bausseron of France (team New Balance).
Both champions delivered performances that thrilled the crowds and demonstrated their elite capabilities on the Skyrunning circuit. Despite their dominant wins, the standing course records remained unbroken and therefore no athlete walked away with the 500€ record bonus.
Male champion, Del Pero, comments: “I really enjoyed this race. It was more technical than I expected. The uphills were very steep and also the downhills were very tricky and full of rocks. I especially enjoyed the last downhill. I was alone so I didn’t push too much but it was fun. In the first part I was running together with Fred and he was really pushing the pace. By the second downhill I was alone and, therefore, I was able to set a comfortable pace for myself again which worked as I was the first to cross the finish line today.”
Female winner, Pineda, comments: “The race was superb, from start to finish. It was hot and humid and also super technical but I was able to hydrate myself and stay focused. From the beginning to the end, I set my own pace because I was aware of the bonus for the new record. I didn’t get the record this time but I was very happy with my race.”
Del Pero’s third victory of the season solidifies his grip on the overall lead, while Pineda’s second win propels her closer to the top of the rankings.
Full results here: https://universal-timing.com/lozere-trail-2025/#2_F36B5A
The season continues in two weeks time with the epic Minotaur Skyrace set in Canada’s Rocky Mountains.
