ARCHIVED RACE: Ultra-Trail-Atlas-Toubkal (UTAT) @ Oukaïmeden, Marrakech, Morroco on 04 October 2012

Ultra Trail Atlas Toubkal
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Discover the Berber people
On the 4th and 5th of October 2012, the Association “Sport Nature
Développement” organize the 4rd edition of the Ultra-Trail-Atlas-
Toubkal (UTAT).
The goal of this association, made of Franco-Moroccan volunteers, is to
introduce the Moroccan High Atlas in an original and sportive way,
through the respect and humility values a Trail brings.
When autumn comes, the Moroccan sun less strong than during summer
warms the 3 unusual routes meticulously prepared.
Oukaïmeden village is the start and finish line of the UTAT.
At an altitude of 2620 m the difference with Marrakech wonderful
touristic destination is striking, however only a 1h30 bus ride separates
these 2 places.
From any main European airports, half a day of travel is needed to access
a total change of scenery.
Covering the Moroccan High Atlas region around the highest point of
North Africa which is the Jbel Toubkal 4167 m high is both a sportive
challenge and an extraordinary cultural meeting with the Berber people.
This adventure leaves its mark forever.
The organizers offer 4 races :
– The UTAT 105 km 6500m D+, with this race, all superlatives are used!
No less than 6 passes of 3000m height and more (ex: the Tizi n’Tarahate
at 3454 m height). Its (configuration) brings you to magical sections with
a part over 40 km with neither paths nor roads around, the wild in its
purest, huge valleys streaming with water, dozens of « azib » (Berber
refuge), passing through the most remote village of the Atlas, called
Amenzel, isolated but full of life !
Be aware that only confirmed trailers will be accepted on this race.
– The Atlas Marathon 42 km 2600 m D+, more accessible but as
magical, with the crossing of Iabassene village before a memorable
climb. It’s a real mini-Ultra, with 3 passes at 3000m high, the last climb
is surprising!
-The Virée d’Ikkiss 26 km 1400 m D+, real Berber digest, 2 passes close
to 3000 m high, a series of authentic villages, the last climb is
breathtaking and joint with the UTAT.
– The Challenge allows to do the Oukaïmeden Trail 42 km (on Oct 6th)
and the Virée d’Ikkiss 26 km (on Oct 7th), a good night rest at
Oukaïmenden will definitely be needed!
Regarding the idea of exchange and sharing, the possibility is given to
several berber inhabitants of the villages crossed by the race to
participate. We equipped them with our sponsors’ donation and also
participants’ donation who would like to. Those local champions are
surprising! In 2010, the young El Houssein Aourik won the Virée d’Ikiss
26 km (in less than 3 hours!) and the Oulaïmenden guide Idali Brahim
won the Challenge.

Moreover, the local economy (guides, muleteers, restaurants…) benefits
plenty from the UTAT.
So, do not hesitate to come and challenge the Moroccan high Atlas to
live an unbelievable and unforgettable adventure!
The prices for this destination are unbeatable. For an equal provided
service, the UTAT will not cost more than a trail next door!
Contact and info on www.atlas-trail.com
For this occasion, our partner “VO2max Voyages”, specialized in
sportive exotic destinations for many years, will offer you the best
formula with the best rates: a few days to spend in Marrakech around the
UTAT; plane tickets and race only.