Canales claims his fourth consecutive MiM victory, while Gemma Arenas triumphs in the CSP at Penyagolosa

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails once again pushed the best runners to their limits in a top-level race day marked by unexpected heat. The atmosphere along the entire course and the pace of the competition shaped an edition that already ranks among the most outstanding.

 

In the MiM, José Ángel Fernández “Canales” was once again one of the main protagonists, claiming a highly emotional victory and securing his fourth consecutive win at Penyagolosa (5:15:09). The men’s race was decided in a spectacular shoulder-to-shoulder duel with American Dakota Jones (5:17:15), who applied constant pressure and crossed the finish line just two minutes later. Behind them, Mario Olmedo (5:23:54) completed the podium, having previously finished second in the 2023 MiM and leading the race alongside Canales and Dakota until nearly halfway through.

Rounding out the top five were Granada’s Fran Anguita (5:29:18), making his Penyagolosa debut, and Romania’s Leonard Mitrica (5:35:59), returning for his second consecutive year.

In the women’s race, victory went to Norway’s Sara Rebekka Linde (6:23:20), who, after five participations, finally reached the top step of the podium. A mother of four and deeply familiar with the course, Linde delivered a very complete performance on a day marked by early heat. She crossed the finish line more than 15 minutes slower than last year’s winning time set by Inés Astrain. Indeed, Inés Astrain (6:36:34) finished second after passing through Borriol at record pace, although the high temperatures prevented her from maintaining the lead in the second half of the race. With today’s performance—and her unmistakable smile—Inés secures her second MiM podium. Very close behind, just 10 seconds later, came Catalonia’s Anna Comet (6:36:44), after a strong negative split performance in which she kept pushing until the final metres.

The women’s top five was completed by fellow Catalans Gisela Carrión (6:39:08) and Cèlia Balcells (6:41:08), in a highly competitive field.

The CSP, which started at midnight from Universitat Jaume I, once again delivered an extremely demanding race. In the men’s category, Raúl Butaci (10:41:10) took victory after a very consistent performance, initially aiming to beat Ben Dhiman’s course record (10:35:48). Close behind, Iván Calvó and Joaquín López shared kilometres but were unable to catch the Romanian. Calvó (10:41:52) eventually crossed the line in second place, just 40 seconds behind, while López (10:46:20), a Kailas FUGA athlete arriving straight from Ecuador, secured third place. The top five was completed by Valencian runners Francisco Rodríguez (11:17:24), a regular in the race, and Arnau Seguí (11:21:22), who followed up last year’s silver medal with a fifth-place finish.

In the women’s CSP race, Gemma Arenas (13:43:19) once again demonstrated her competitive affinity with Penyagolosa. With no fewer than eight podium finishes, the runner from La Mancha returned to the podium, claiming her third victory in the long distance. Behind her, Britain’s Emi Dixon (14:07:05) finished second in what proved to be a highly technical race for her. The Canary Islands’ Yasmina Castro (14:39:03) completed the podium, showcasing excellent form by linking two ultra competitions in consecutive weekends.

Local runner Sonia Escuriola (15:42:08), another Penyagolosa regular, and Elena Mihai (16:06:51) rounded out the women’s top five in the long distance.

Beyond the results, the day once again reflected the essence of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails: a demanding course, a unique natural setting and passionate support along every section of the route. The live streaming broadcast allowed thousands of viewers to follow the key moments of the race in real time, bringing the excitement to a global audience.

Race director Tico Cervera highlighted what goes beyond sport itself: “It’s incredible to see how people come together. Volunteers are always there, from the very beginning until the end, and the towns turn the race into something much bigger than a competition. The atmosphere created is truly unique and undoubtedly one of Penyagolosa’s defining features.”

From the start at Universitat Jaume I to the finish line at Sant Joan de Penyagolosa, the race once again followed a course that combines difficulty and symbolism, reaffirming its unique character within the trail running calendar.

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails thus closes another chapter in its sporting history.

This was the FUGA Penyagolosa Trails product test to activate the legs ahead of the big day

Participants took centre stage in this joint session, joined by sponsors Kailas FUGA, Suunto and Nutrinovex, along with some of their elite athletes.

Castellón is already feeling the Penyagolosa atmosphere. Sports brands Kailas FUGA, Suunto and Nutrinovex brought runners together yesterday at the Penyeta Roja athletics track for a shared session designed not only to activate the body, but also to offer a direct experience alongside some of their elite athletes.

With a route of less than five kilometres, the activity allowed participants to shake out their legs and start tuning into race sensations ahead of Saturday, while also creating a space for connection between brands, amateur runners and trail running role models.

The session featured José Ángel Fernández “Canales”, ambassador for the three brands, three-time MiM champion and current course record holder. He was joined by standout runners such as Inés Astrain, who set the women’s MiM record last year, and Mercedes Pila, with multiple podium finishes at Penyagolosa. Fran and Manu Anguita also took part, along with several runners from the FUGA Mountain Club.

During the event, participants had the opportunity to test Kailas FUGA footwear, Suunto devices and Nutrinovex nutrition products in real conditions, ask questions and receive feedback from both the brands and the athletes themselves.

The activity helped to strengthen the sense of community in the lead-up to the race, ahead of the weekend challenge.

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails continues today with the Expo Trail, open from 11:00 to 21:00, and tonight the CSP will begin with its start at 00:00 (midnight).

Everything ready for FUGA Penyagolosa Trails after its official presentation

The event received strong institutional support and the presence of Kailas FUGA, title sponsor of the race, whose team travelled from China

 

Castellón has taken the final step towards a new edition of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails with the celebration of its official presentation at the Patio de las Aulas, in an event that brought together institutional representatives, sponsors and key stakeholders of the race.

Among the attendees were Marta Barrachina, President of the Diputación de Castellón; Luis Cervera, Director General of Sport of the Valencian Regional Government; and Antonia Valls, Deputy Government Delegate in Castellón, all of whom highlighted the sporting, territorial and organisational importance of a race that is now firmly established on both the national and international calendar.

The President of the Castellón Provincial Council, Marta Barrachina, stated that:
“FUGA Penyagolosa Trails is unique because of its organisation, unique because of its course in an exceptional natural environment, and unique because of the volunteers who are fully committed along the entire route. It is a race that perfectly combines the world elite with the essence of our towns.”

For his part, the Director General of Sport, Luis Cervera, emphasised that:
“Events like FUGA Penyagolosa Trails reflect the potential of the Valencian Community to host top-level sporting competitions, promoting our territory and strengthening its position on the international stage.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy Government Delegate in Castellón, Antonia Valls, highlighted that:
“A race of this scale also represents a significant organisational and coordination challenge, where the joint work of public administrations, security forces and volunteers is essential to ensure its proper development.”

Following the institutional segment, the presentation moved into the sporting sphere with a focus on Kailas FUGA, the race’s title sponsor. The global technical outdoor brand was present in Castellón, reinforcing its direct commitment to an event it considers a key platform within its international expansion strategy.

In this context, Jacky Yao and Pippa Ebel, responsible for sponsorships at Kailas FUGA, shared their vision of the partnership and the brand’s positioning within the international trail running scene. They also used the occasion to introduce FUGA Mountain Club in Spain, an initiative bringing together semi-elite runners and reinforcing the brand’s commitment to talent development and global community building.

Alongside them, José Ángel Fernández “Canales”, athlete of the Kailas FUGA team, provided a high-level sporting perspective. A three-time consecutive winner of the race and current course record holder, Canales highlighted the unique character of a race he knows in depth.

With the presentation now complete, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails enters the final countdown ahead of this Saturday’s race, when hundreds of runners will once again take on the historic routes leading to Sant Joan de Penyagolosa.

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails will be broadcast live to experience the excitement of the race

The live broadcast will start at 08:00 and run until 14:00, available on www.penyagolosatrails.com and the Evasión TV channel

 

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails will once again focus on bringing the excitement of the race to every corner of the world through a live broadcast that can be followed from any device.

The broadcast once again stands as one of the major technical challenges of the event, especially due to the characteristics of the course. Along the nearly 30 kilometres of the route covered live, where there is virtually no 4G coverage, two complementary systems have been deployed to ensure signal reliability.

On one hand, satellite technology via Starlink is used, and on the other, a more advanced system based on MESH radiofrequency technology. The combination of both guarantees coverage and broadcast stability throughout the entire section.

All the signal will be transmitted from Atzeneta to Barcelona, where the live production will take place. In this process, the collaboration of AKIWIFI, a local telecommunications operator, is key, as it has provided its fibre network deployed in the area to enable signal transmission.

Race coverage will feature a wide on-site deployment, including four camera bikers, four camera runners and four drones, responsible for capturing live footage of the leading runners in both the men’s and women’s races.

The broadcast will be hosted by journalists Albert Jorquera and Teresa Sánchez, who will provide live commentary throughout the race. During the broadcast, viewers will be able to participate via chat and enter giveaways featuring products from the technical sponsors.

As a complement, on Friday, April 24, a race highlights programme will be aired on Teledeporte, within the show Atletismo en Acción, further expanding its national reach.

Penyagolosa a l’Escola brings together nearly 600 schoolchildren at Universitat Jaume I in a day connecting sport, education and territory

The initiative celebrates its third edition with the participation of five schools from inland areas of the province of Castellón

The cross-country tracks at Universitat Jaume I hosted this morning the final event of Penyagolosa a l’Escola, where 600 primary school students took part in a non-competitive race with distances adapted to their age — 400, 600 and 800 metres — in a shared and safe environment.

Beyond today’s event, Penyagolosa a l’Escola is a project that runs throughout the entire school year, with the aim of bringing sport and nature closer to younger generations from an educational perspective.

In this regard, the programme is developed in the classroom through a multidisciplinary approach, integrating different areas of knowledge such as physical education, environmental studies, arts, music and language, always using the territory and the MiM and CSP routes as a common thread.

As the central element of this edition, participating schools have jointly created an educational comic featuring Pele and Grina as main characters, telling their journey along the MiM and CSP routes through the different municipalities that form part of the course. This work has allowed students to interpret the territory from a creative and narrative perspective. The project will be published soon, continuing the work carried out throughout the school year.

This third edition has included participation from CEIP l’Hereu (Borriol), CEIP Sant Miquel (Vilafamés), CEIP Sant Joan de Moró, CRA Penyagolosa — comprising Les Useres, Atzeneta and Vistabella — and CRA l’Aiguaneu, with students from Catí, Culla, Torre d’en Besora and Vilar de Canes.

The director of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails, Tico Cervera, highlighted the key role of teachers: “Since the first edition, the role of teachers has been fundamental. They have been able to work on the project throughout the year in the classroom, adapt it across different subjects and integrate it into everyday education beyond the sporting aspect.”

The programme, which was launched in 2024 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Marató i Mitja (MiM), has evolved in just three editions to become a consolidated educational initiative within the region, with the support of the Diputación de Castellón and the Comunitat de l’Esport, both of which have backed its growth from the beginning.

In this context, the Provincial Deputy for Sports of the Diputación de Castellón, Iván Sánchez, stated that:
“Penyagolosa a l’Escola is a clear example of how sport can be integrated into education to convey values such as effort, teamwork and respect, while connecting younger generations with their territory.”

Meanwhile, the Director of the Sports Service at Universitat Jaume I, Carlos Hernando, emphasised that:
“This project demonstrates the potential of sport as a global educational tool, capable of integrating different areas of knowledge and generating meaningful experiences for students.”

Penyagolosa a l’Escola opens the week of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails, which will conclude on Saturday, April 18, with the celebration of its main races.

The CSP prepares for an open battle among top names in international trail running

The CSP of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails arrives at this edition with an especially high sporting level and several clear contenders for victory. The 106 kilometres between Castellón and Sant Joan de Penyagolosa will once again demand a combination of endurance, strategy and course knowledge in a race where every detail can make the difference.

Key names in the battle for victory


The fight for the top spot features several well-known names. Among them is Raúl Butaci, one of the most consistent runners on the European scene. He arrives after a 2025 season in which he has barely stepped off the podium in top-level ultras, with results such as second place at Lavaredo by UTMB® 120K.

Opposing him, Joaquín López continues to take firm steps towards the absolute elite. Following his third place at UTMB® Mont-Blanc 2024 and victory at Mt. Fuji 100 in 2025, the Ecuadorian has established himself as one of the most decisive runners over long distances.

The presence of Julen Calvó adds another competitive dimension to the race. He has already proven his ability to perform at Penyagolosa, with a second place at the MiM in 2024 and a sixth place last year. He also returns backed by his recent bronze medal at the Spanish Ultra Championship (Individual and Regional Teams – FEDME).

This group is joined by runners who know the course well. Francisco Rodríguez, a local runner, and Arnau Seguí, runner-up in the last edition, are among them. Internationally, the race will also feature Australia’s Morgan Pilley, with experience in ultras across different continents, and Cédric Chavet, one of the most recognisable figures in European trail running.

From a local perspective, the CSP once again proves to be a specialist’s race. In addition to Francisco, names such as Daniel Colom stand out—arguably one of the runners who best understands Penyagolosa, with multiple participations in CSP and MiM and remarkable consistency in leading positions. Alongside him, Adrià García, Iván Marín, Albert García, Rubén Marc and Vicente Herrera will add further competitiveness.

A women’s field defined by experience in Penyagolosa

In the women’s race, the field promises to be highly competitive, with several standout names. Mercedes Pila will be one of the main references. Her experience and knowledge of the course, after several CSP participations, place her in a very strong position. Last year, she secured second place in a closely contested race.

Alongside her will be Jessica Tipán, who also knows the race very well. Following her third place in the CSP in 2024, she has shown steady progression in recent seasons, establishing herself as an increasingly reliable runner over long distances.

The list of favourites continues with Yasmina Castro Chacón, a key figure in Canary Islands trail running, who has delivered consistently strong seasons and arrives after a top 10 finish at UTMB® TDS. She will be joined by Emily Dixon, a regular on the international circuit, with solid results in races such as Lavaredo, Innsbruck and Swiss Alps.

Meanwhile, Raquel Casares, a local runner, continues to consolidate her progression over this distance after several participations in Penyagolosa. Local athletes Sonia Escuriola and Alicia Chaveli will also be on the start line, bringing course knowledge and competitive ambition.

This scenario is further shaped by several last-minute withdrawals, increasing the uncertainty even more. This is the case of Anna Tarasova, who will not be able to attend in Castellón due to personal reasons, and Iván Calvó, recent winner of Unicaja Ultra Sierra Nevada, who after considering his participation will not take the start.

These absences reshape the competitive landscape and open up even more possibilities in the fight for the leading positions.

The “Ecodorsal” returns to FUGA Penyagolosa Trails with five direct entries for 2027

With a few days to go until FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026, the organisation reminds participants about how the “Ecodorsal” works — a well-established initiative that rewards proper waste management during the race and offers direct access to the next edition.

Every December, thousands of runners try to secure a place in the race through the official lottery. However, during the competition there is an alternative route for those who want to guarantee their participation in 2027, linked to a simple action: carrying their own waste to the finish line.

Along the course, it is common to consume gels, bars and other products that generate small wrappers. The “Ecodorsal” encourages runners not to leave this waste in the environment, but to carry it with them until the end of the race.

To support this, the organisation will set up a dedicated collection point at Sant Joan de Penyagolosa. Here, participants can deposit the waste they have accumulated during the race, which will be recorded by volunteers together with their bib number.

All runners who take part in the initiative will automatically be entered into a lottery for five direct entries to FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2027, thus avoiding the usual registration process.

This initiative, present in several editions, is part of the measures promoted by the organisation to reduce the environmental impact of the race and to strengthen participants’ involvement in caring for the territory.

With this reminder in the final stretch before the race, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails reinforces a key message: the sustainability of the event also depends on the individual decisions made by each runner along the course.

The MiM returns with a top-tier line-up in its 27th edition, promising excitement from start to finish

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails will turn Castellón into the epicentre of trail running with a MiM celebrating its 27th edition. The historic 60-kilometre race will bring together some of the best runners on the national and international scene, setting the stage for a top-level battle on April 18.

Canales, the man to beat

In the men’s race, all eyes are on José Ángel Fernández “Canales”, three-time champion and current course record holder (5:12:54), who returns to Castellón aiming for his fourth victory. The Kailas FUGA team runner will once again line up with the goal of continuing to build his legacy in a race he knows inside out.

Alongside him is Marc Bernades, one of the standout names in Spanish trail running, who has shown remarkable resilience after his injury in 2025. His return to top form, with strong results in national championships and international circuits, places him among the main podium contenders.

Joining them is Dakota Jones, one of the most recognisable figures in global ultra trail running. A two-time Transvulcania winner and regular podium finisher in iconic races, the American will make his MiM debut with an outstanding track record and a philosophy closely aligned with the values of the race—adding a special dimension to his presence in Castellón.

A wide-open men’s top 10

The list of favourites also includes names such as Leonard Mitrica, Romanian champion and regular competitor at major international events; Fran Anguita, in great form after his recent podium at Transgrancanaria; Mario Olmedo, runner-up at the MiM in 2023; Claudio Díaz, one of Spain’s ultra trail references; Manuel Anguita, with strong results in international races; Pablo Bautista, Spanish trail running runner-up; and Daniel Castillo, known for his experience and consistency at a high level.

This group is further strengthened by a strong international presence, reinforcing the global character of the race, with runners such as Kevin Vermeulen, MiM winner in 2022; French runner Gautier Bonnecarrère, a regular in major European races; and Norway’s Anders J. Kjærevik, a familiar face at Penyagolosa who returns year after year.

Alongside them, local participation will once again play a key role. Runners such as David Prades, Cristian Ibáñez and Samuel Palomera will be aiming to take centre stage in a race they know perfectly well.

History and character on the start line

In the women’s race, the level is once again outstanding. The spotlight will be on Inés Astrain, current course record holder (6:07:46), who returns after delivering a historic performance in the previous edition. Her race was not just a victory—it was a display of control, intelligence and connection with the course, always with a smile.

Alongside her is Gemma Arenas, a true legend of Penyagolosa, with eight podium finishes in the race and one of the most consistent athletes. Year after year, she returns to Castellón with the same enthusiasm, proving that her relationship with the MiM goes far beyond results.

Also on the start line will be Azara García, MiM winner in 2019 and one of the most charismatic runners in Spanish trail running. Her return to Penyagolosa generates great anticipation: intensity, character and competitiveness define an athlete who already knows what it takes to win here.

The field is completed by runners such as Norway’s Sara Rebekka Linde, with multiple participations and strong finishes at the MiM; Anna Comet, one of the most experienced runners on the international scene; Gisela Carrión, with an impressive international track record; Cèlia Balcells, Spanish Snowrunning champion; and Maud Combarieu, with victories in long-distance races.

Local female talent

On the local side, the women’s field will include names closely linked to the territory such as Isabel Llorach, Sandra Lafuente, María Jesús Marco and María Mecho—runners who embody the spirit of Penyagolosa and take on the race with the added motivation of competing on home soil.

With this line-up, MiM 2026 reaffirms its position as one of the key events on the calendar, where sporting excellence meets the essence of a race defined by tradition, territory and sustainability. On April 18, the road to Sant Joan will once again decide who writes their name into the history of Penyagolosa.

800 volunteers ready for FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026

Just a few weeks ahead of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026, nearly 800 volunteers are already working on coordinating one of the most iconic events in trail running. Their role is key to ensuring the smooth running of the race and reinforcing its commitment to the natural environment.

Yesterday afternoon, the organisation held a coordination meeting with volunteer representatives at the Cajamar auditorium—premium partner of the event—with the aim of aligning the work of the different teams and finalising preparations for April 18.

Coming from 21 collaborating clubs, volunteers play a fundamental role in the development of the race, taking part in essential tasks such as course logistics, runner safety, and the event’s environmental management.

Many of them return year after year, becoming the soul of the race and one of its defining elements, thanks to the atmosphere they create and their dedication at every point along the course.

Race director Tico Cervera highlighted their importance:
“Volunteers are what make everything work on race day. From aid stations to assisting a runner, their work is present in every detail. They are an essential part of the team.”

The race will be broadcast live on the official FUGA Penyagolosa Trails website and on Evasión TV, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

On April 18, all this work will once again come to life in the mountains, where runners, volunteers and the territory come together to bring a new edition of FUGA Penyagolosa Trails to life.

FUGA Penyagolosa Trails prepares a new edition with a focus on sustainability

With one month to go until FUGA Penyagolosa Trails 2026, set to take place on April 18, the organisation once again highlights one of the race’s defining pillars: its commitment to sustainability and respect for the natural environment of the Parc Natural de Penyagolosa.

Beyond the sporting challenge represented by the MiM and the CSP, the Castellón-based race has been working for years to prove that it is possible to organise a major trail running event while minimising its impact on the mountains. In 2017, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails obtained the UNE-EN ISO 20121 certification, which endorses its sustainable management system and its commitment to continuous improvement in environmental, social and economic areas.

Sustainable mobility to reach the finish line

One of the key measures is the responsible mobility policy on race day, especially in the finish area, located in Sant Joan de Penyagolosa, within the natural park.

For environmental and safety reasons, direct vehicle access will be restricted. To facilitate access for supporters, a parking area will be set up 3 kilometres from Vistabella, from where a free shuttle bus service will run to the finish line.

In addition, runners will have access to a dedicated shuttle service back to Castellón:

● From 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with departures every 30 minutes
● From 8:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., with departures every hour

Stops will be located at Universitat Jaume I and Plaza Independencia (Farola).

Running in the mountains, respecting the mountains

The FUGA Penyagolosa Trails route runs along trails and tracks within the Parc Natural de Penyagolosa, an environment that requires special care to minimise the impact of the race.

In this regard, the organisation emphasises the importance of following a set of basic measures during the event:

● Always stay on the marked course, avoiding shortcuts that may cause soil erosion, especially in sensitive sections such as the Camí dels Pelegrins de Les Useres.

● Reduce waste generation. The use of a personal cup is mandatory, and all waste must be properly sorted at aid stations.

● Respect designated areas for spectators and assistance to avoid overcrowding and ensure safety.

● Limit noise and light impact, with restrictions on the use of loudspeakers, sound entertainment elements and non-essential nighttime lighting.

These measures are part of a broader strategy aimed at minimising the event’s environmental impact and promoting responsible behaviour among all participants.

A shared commitment

The organisation reminds everyone that the sustainability of the event depends not only on the measures implemented, but also on the behaviour of runners, supporters and volunteers.

The involvement of all stakeholders is essential to preserve the natural environment in which the race takes place and to ensure that the sporting experience remains compatible with the protection of the territory.

With this approach, FUGA Penyagolosa Trails has established itself as a benchmark in international trail running, demonstrating that it is possible to organise a high-level competition while respecting the mountains that make it possible.