The Sagalassos SkyRace serves as a pivotal moment for competitors aiming for top spots in the Merrell Skyrunner® World Series standings.
As the last event before the series final, this race will determine crucial points and rankings, adding an extra layer of tension and competition to an already challenging course.
Held at the historic ruins of Sagalassos, this race showcases both ancient history and intense physical endurance, combining unique landscapes, significant elevation gains, and breathtaking views. After starting in Ağlasun, in the province of Burdur, the 27km-SkyRace-route will traverse ancient Roman roads, climb steep ridge lines, and challenge participants with high-altitude sections that peak at over 2,000 meters, guaranteeing a race like no other.
Athletes from around the world will converge on Sagalassos not only for a shot at victory in this iconic race but also to solidify or improve their standings before the final showdown.
After recently losing his top spot in the overall ranking to Luca Del Pero, we expect to see Roberto Delorenzi of Switzerland (team Brooks) on top form to regain his number one position. Delorenzi will be up against a competitive men’s field, including: Frederic Tranchand of France (team Scott Running); Aitor Ajuria of Spain (team Basque Selection); the defending champion, Navil Shaimukhametov (team Sparta NC); locals, Samet Uysal, Umut Erdal and Enes Halit Yilmaz; and U23 stars Jan Torella (team Salomon / FEEC); Iu Net (team La Sportiva / FEEC); and Gontzal Murgoitio (team Basque Selection), all of Spain.
The women’s field is equally as impressive. Iris Pessey of France (team Scott Running); Marcela Vasinova of the Czech Republic; Canada’s Emma Cook-Clarke (team Arc’teryx); and Ainara Urrutia (team Basque Selection), Celia Balcells (team FEEC), and Laia Montoya (team FEEC), all of Spain, are the top international females, who will go head-to-head with locals Nuray Bulut (team Kaya); Halide Kaya (team Idadik) and Merve Duva (team 42+Akademi), as well as the defending champion, Ariadna Golubenko of Estonia.
Sagalassos Skyrace takes place this Saturday, 9th of November at 09:00 am local time.
Race website: https://www.sagalassosultra.com/en
