Experience participating in Transgrancanaria

Transgrancanaria is on the worldstage of trail races and on the bucket list of most trailrunners. The beauty of this event is a distance for every ability, from Big Daddy Ultra distance at 125 km to Little Sister half marathon distance at 19 km. Each distance connects and integrates, going from north to south through the middle of the island.

Being internationally recognised and offering a run for every runner this race gathers little pieces from all over the world. 

I love that concept, the world gathering in nature’s playground and experiencing the beauty in the heart of Islas Canarias, Gran Canaria. What intrigues me more is that behind every runner there is a story and each story is unique.

In 2015 I had the opportunity to run the distance (44km) and came 3rd. Wow! As a trail runner I enjoyed the “downhill meets technical” race course. What a race. If you are not an uphill runner and prefer flying in the downs, this could be the race for you.

Recently I had the privilege to explore other parts of the Transgrancanaria race course, and my mind was blown away. From Agaete in the north west to Maspalomas in the south via Roque Nublo you get to see and experience a Gran Canaria that is far from tourism and hustle but rather a genuine and warm atmosphere from the locals. The beauty in the shifting landscapes, not to mention the microclimates. If Gran Canaria is in the heart of Islas Canarias, Artenara is in the heart of Gran Canaria.

When I really fell in love with Gran Canaria was arriving in Artenara days before the race and staying in Cruz de Tejeda. The place of sunrises and sunsets. If you ever want to see spectacular sunrises amongst forest and mountains, touching the sky this is where you would like to stay. Don’t be fooled by the cool evenings, during daytime the temperatures rise. This is Transgrancanaria climate for you.

Living on Lanzarote for 12 years it is always a pleasure to travel and see the other Canary Islands. It takes about 40 min to fly between the islands. Gran Canaria is the island with many micro climates and depending where you are on the island the difference in weather and landscape is interesting. This is also a key in the Transgrancanaria race. Starting the marathon in Garañón and ending in Maspalomas was like going from Scandinavian spring to Spanish summers. Layers is the way to dress.

I would really consider doing this race course not just on race day. It is a wonderful way to explore the island. And what better way to travel from north to south but via the trails, walking or running.

Transgrancanaria has breathtaking views over Agaete, warm sunrises in Tamadaba, through the pine forests of Garañón, majestic mountains in Artenara and then the grand finale in Maspalomas. Transgrancanaria has a bit of everything. I think that’s what makes it interesting. Thank you Transgrancanaria. Hope to see you soon again.