MessengerZela Ultra Marathon
Event summary
Zela Ultra Marathon (ZUM) returns for its 9th edition on May 1–2, 2026, in the scenic mountains of Vouzela, Portugal. Organized by SpotCriativo Eventos with local support, ZUM offers an immersive skyrunning experience across five distances, from vertical kilometers to mid-distance mountain challenges.
The event emphasizes autonomy, self-sufficiency, and fair play, providing runners a demanding yet rewarding environment with stunning alpine scenery. Races range from beginner-accessible to expert-level endurance courses, all in a circular or linear mountain format.
Event Type: Trail / Skyrunning
Distances:
KM Vertical Vasconha (linear): 4 km
Zela XS: 14 km (900 D+)
Zela S: 24 km (1500 D+)
Zela M: 35 km (2400 D+)
Zela L: 55 km (3600 D+)
Dates:
May 1, 2026 – KM Vertical
May 2, 2026 – All other distances
Who Can Participate:
Open to all, with age minimums per race (from 14+ to 23+)
Affiliation:
Overseen by the Federação de Campismo e Montanhismo de Portugal (FCMP)
Part of national skyrunning rankings
Atmosphere:
Competitive yet community-oriented
Limited to 700 participants to maintain quality and safety
Known for strong local involvement and support
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Plan itInformation
Start Times & Cut-Offs:
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KM Vertical (May 1): 17:30 (90 min cut-off)
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XS (14 km): 10:00 – 4h limit
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S (24 km): 09:00 – 6h limit
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M (35 km): 08:00 – 8h limit
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L (55 km): 07:30 – 12h limit
Start/Finish Location:
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All races start and finish in Vouzela (except KM Vertical – point-to-point)
Categories:
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Age group podiums from F/M 45 to F/M 60
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Masters compete individually under World Masters Trail
Timing:
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Electronic chip timing with GPS tracking on designated courses
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Surprise gear checks and control points along course
Mandatory Gear:
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Minimum 1L liquid, thermal blanket, rain jacket, phone, whistle, and headlamp (adjusted by weather)
Road Rules:
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No road closures – participants must follow pedestrian traffic laws
Regulation Link
Location
get directionsRaces
Km Vertical
55 km
35 km
24 km
14 km
Benefits
🎽 Athlete kit: bib + digital race guide
🏅 Finisher medal + traditional “Pastel de Vouzela”
⏱️ Live GPS timing and chip classification
🛟 Medical teams and mountain rescue units
🛡️ Personal accident insurance
🥤 Aid stations with solid and liquid nutrition
🚿 Showers available
📍 Free local transport to start lines (e.g., KM Vertical)
Optional Extras:
📦 Surprise item (€5)
🧁 Traditional pastry finisher treat
💸 Insurance for refund option (€6)
🎽 Official IX edition t-shirt (€10)
Prize Money:
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Cash prizes available for all distances (details to be announced)
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Must be present at podium to claim prize
