Basque Ultra Trail Series 2017
The Basque Ultra Trail Series (BUTS) 2017 marks the return of a significant mountaineering tradition in the Basque Country, inspired by the historic March of the Four Cathedrals. This incredible journey was first undertaken by Shebe Pena, a mountaineer from Tolosa, in 1953. His goal was to connect the four capitals of the Basque and Navarrese regions—Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, San Sebastian, and Pamplona—on foot.Basque Ultra Trail Series 2017 | Pena’s Historic March
Pena completed the 400-kilometer trek in just 93 hours, stopping at each cathedral to attend mass. His legendary journey inspired the creation of the Basque Ultra Trail Series, a circuit of four ultra-distance mountain races across the region.
A Look at the Origins of BUTS
In 1953, Shebe Pena set off from Bilbao Cathedral and walked nonstop through the mountains, covering an astounding 400 kilometers with 7,400 meters of positive elevation. This journey took him through remote trails, rugged landscapes, and the region’s highest peaks.
Pena’s journey took place at the same time that Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay were making history by becoming the first to summit Mount Everest. This coincidence gave rise to the title of a book written about Pena’s achievement, “At the Same Time as Hillary and Tenzing.”
The 2017 Basque Ultra Trail Series
To honor Pena’s historic march, the Basque Ultra Trail Series was launched in 2017. It includes four races spread throughout the year, each covering different sections of the Basque region and its mountainous terrain. Runners face a total distance of 500 kilometers and 24,600 meters of cumulative elevation.
Key features of the Basque Ultra Trail Series:
- 4 Ultra-Distance Races Held across all seasons
- Total Distance of 500 km
- Elevation Gain of 24,600 meters
- 78 Peaks (Some iconic peaks include Ganekogorta, Gorbeia, and Ireber)
- Capitals Linked are Bilbao, Vitoria, Pamplona, and San Sebastian
The Basque Ultra Trail Series is a tribute to the region’s rich mountaineering history and a unique opportunity for runners to challenge themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of the Basque Country.
The Basque Ultra Trail Series is a celebration of Basque culture, history, and endurance. Inspired by Shebe Pena’s legendary March of the Four Cathedrals, it continues to attract elite athletes and passionate trail runners alike. With its grueling distances, stunning peaks, and rich heritage, this series is a must for anyone looking to test their limits in one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.