Less than 30 days remain until the world’s best young mountain runners converge on Slovakia.

The picturesque resort of Donovaly will become the epicentre of global junior mountain running from 13–14 June 2025, as it hosts the 18th International U18 Mountain Running Cup.  Currently, 139 athletes (71 boys and 68 girls) from 20 national federations have confirmed their participation, signaling another bumper edition of this prestigious event.

The event, organized by the World Mountain Running Association and the Slovak Athletic Federation will see teams from many countries like Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Poland, Switzerland, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia, England, USA and some more. Each country can field four women and four men and the first three finishers for each country will count towards the team competition.

The event website is https://www.bamm.sk/18th-international-u18-mountain-running-cup-2025-slovakia, where you can also find the team manual and a wealth of additional information.

The course runs mainly through forest terrain and meadows along marked hiking trails. Is 5.8 km long, with a total elevation gain of 513 meters. The starting point is located at a parking lot Park Snow Donovaly about a 15-minute walk from the accommodation. From this parking lot, a cable car operates to Nová Hoľa, where the finish line is situated.

Athletes’ checked luggage will be transported from the start to the finish area, where it will be available for pickup. After the race, participants will be taken back to the start by cable car, or by minibus in case of unfavorable weather conditions.

Since its inception in 2006 the U18 Cup has grown steadily.  Last year’s edition in Aguilar de Campoo, Spain, attracted 112 athletes from 15 countries, up from 101 athletes and 14 countries in Annecy (2023).  Donovaly 2025 is on course to raise the bar yet again, with 139 runners from 20 nations already on the start‑list.

The race will take place in Donovaly, a mountain village nestled in the Banská Bystrica region at an elevation of 960 metres, where the Veľká Fatra and Starohorské Vrchy mountain ranges meet. The village spans both the northern (Liptov) and southern (Horehronie) slopes of the mountain pass.

Banská Bystrica and Ružomberok are approximately 27 km away and are easily accessible via the I/59 road. The eastern part of Donovaly lies within the Low Tatras National Park, which encompasses the Štrosy Nature Reserve.

Donovaly is renowned for:

• A Mountain Paradise: Donovaly is a charming mountain village situated at the crossroads of the Veľká Fatra and Starohorské Vrchy mountain ranges, standing 960 metres above sea level. With its stunning views and unspoiled natural beauty, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
• A Premier Skiing Destination: Donovaly is one of Slovakia’s most renowned ski resorts, offering slopes to suit all abilities. It’s also home to Funpark Donovaly, one of Central Europe’s largest children’s ski parks.

• Hiking and Cycling Adventures: The area features a vast network of marked trails for hiking and mountain biking. These paths wind through dense forests and picturesque meadows, providing breathtaking views of the Low Tatras and beyond.
• Enchanting Sights: Donovaly hosts the Habakuky Fairy-Tale Village, an enchanting theme park inspired by Slovak folklore. It’s a delightful spot for families and anyone who loves magical stories.
• Historic Korytnica Spa: The nearby Korytnica area, celebrated for its mineral springs, was a popular spa destination in the 19th century. While the spa is no longer operational, visitors can still enjoy the natural spring water.

Wednesday, June 11

• Arrival of non-European teams
• 13:30 – Lunch
• 20:00 – Dinner

Thursday, June 12

• Arrival of teams and WMRA delegates
• 13:30 – Lunch
• 20:00 – Dinner

Friday, June 13

• 10:00 – Course inspection – walking distance (approx. 15 minutes)
• 12:00 – Lunch
• 17:00 – Technical meeting (team leaders only)
• 18:00 – Opening ceremony
• 19:00 – Dinner
• 21:00–22:00 – VIP reception

Saturday, June 14

• 9:30 – Recommended departure to the race start (walking distance approx. 15 minutes)
• 9:30 – Public race
• 11:00 – U18 Cup start (girls)
• 11:45 – U18 Cup start (boys)
• 12:30 – Flower ceremony
• 14:00 – Lunch
• 18:00 – Medal ceremony and closing ceremony
• 19:00–21:30 – After party

Sunday, June 15

• Departure of participants