Latest news with #Sierre-Zinal
Ya Biladi
04-05-2025
- Sport
- Ya Biladi
Moroccan runners Ayoub Ahmed and Aziza El Amrani win 42 km race at High Atlas Ultra Trail
Moroccan athletes Ayoub Ahmed and Aziza El Amrani claimed victory on Saturday in the 42 km race held in Ouirgane (Al Haouz province), as part of the 2025 edition of the Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail (Sonasid HAUT). Ayoub Ahmed dominated the men's competition, which started in Imlil, finishing with a time of 4 hours, 21 minutes, and 14 seconds. He outpaced Noureddine Bacheki, who finished in 4 hours, 34 minutes, and 16 seconds, and Zaid Ait Malek, who came in at 4 hours, 35 minutes, and 17 seconds. In the women's category, Aziza El Amrani took first place, completing the course—which drew 120 athletes (men and women)—in 7 hours, 3 minutes, and 23 seconds. She was followed by fellow Moroccan Soukaina Hammam, who crossed the finish line in 7 hours, 30 minutes, and 3 seconds. With their wins, both athletes have secured spots in the prestigious Sierre-Zinal race in Switzerland. Speaking to MAP, Ayoub Ahmed described the race as challenging and competitive, noting that he had trained intensively to prepare. Aziza El Amrani highlighted the demanding nature of the course, which she said also offered runners a chance to experience a different side of Morocco's natural beauty. She emphasized that the race was key to qualifying for international competitions. More than 900 mountain runners from 20 countries are taking part in the 2025 edition of the Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail, held May 3–4 in Toubkal National Park. The event aims to promote sports in the Al Haouz region and support the discovery of local talent.
Morocco World
18-04-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail 2025 Brings Sport, Solidarity to the Atlas Mountains
Rabat – The Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail (HAUT) is returning with a new edition that promises a challenging race through breathtaking landscapes, and also a strong social and economic impact for the local communities in Morocco's Atlas Mountains. Organizers held a press conference yesterday in Casablanca, announcing that this year's HAUT will take place on May 3 and 4 in the scenic valleys of Imlil and Azzaden Ouirgane, located in the heart of Toubkal National Park. The organizers spotlighted the event's role in local development and inclusion. Every year, the race brings together villagers, cooperatives, families, and volunteers. In 2025, over 950 runners from different backgrounds will take part in six different races. These include two ultra-trails, a cani-trail, a junior/cadet race, and a kids' race, all covering a total of 340 kilometers and passing through 15 villages. While the trails are physically demanding, participants will be able to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the High Atlas region. Local communities are at the heart of the event, organizers say. Guides, mule handlers, artisans, and rural families all play a key role. Last year, local guest houses were fully booked during the event. Organizers say they are continuing to support local producers, service providers, and accommodation hosts to promote a model of circular economy and shared growth. More than 70 local residents and 10 young people will be paid for their work on the event. In addition, 30 volunteers in training for sports management will join the organizing team. The Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail (HAUT) press conference Organizers noted efforts made to empower women of the region, with local craft cooperatives given the opportunity to showcase their work during the event. In addition, podiums will be decorated with handmade carpets from the region. Other social and environmental initiatives this year's edition brings are the medical caravan of 15 doctors serving the village of Assif Zagzawen, a sanitation project in Ouirgane, carried out with support from local authorities and NGOs, and environmental, safety, and hospitality training for around 60 people involved in organizing the event. A new highlight this year is that the Sonasid HAUT is now a qualifying race for the world-famous Sierre-Zinal trail race in Switzerland. With support from the Swiss embassy in Morocco, top Moroccan athletes may now earn the chance to represent the High Atlas on the international stage. Organizers noted the event's focus on inclusivity, with 40% of this year's participants being women. The introduction of a timed junior and cadet race also supports the development of young athletes in the region. Tags: high atlassonasidtrail
