Rabat – The fast-approaching 4th edition of the Sonasid High Atlas Ultra Trail (Haut) promises a powerful experience that connects nature, culture, and community in the majestic High Atlas Mountains.
It will run through several villages and the stunning Toubkal National Park, Morocco’s highest and most iconic natural reserve, said the organizers at a press conference today in Casablanca.
This year’s HAUT, scheduled for May 3-4, promises to be more than just a race. The 2025 edition introduces two brand-new elements: a timed cadets and juniors race to encourage young athletes and help them reach elite levels, and a medical caravan in the rural region of Assif Zagrawen, to offer healthcare services on April 19–20, ahead of the main race.
“We have some great additions this year,” said Kaoutar Bendoumou, the event’s director. “Beyond our usual solidarity actions, we’ve added a medical caravan and a youth race to motivate young runners and support their growth,” she told Morocco World News.
This trail is organized by and for the people of the region, said the organizers. One unique aspect is the strong focus on local development and cultural preservation. Local women’s associations are producing handmade Amazigh carpets, which will be awarded to podium finishers across all races.
These carpets, rich in meaning and tradition, symbolize the beauty and strength of the region, which was affected by Al Haouz earthquake that hit central Morocco in September 2023.
An exhibition of local products will also be held in the village where the race takes place to showcase and support small producers. Local residents are employed in various aspects of the race, including logistics and hospitality, to reinforce the trail’s goal of creating lasting economic opportunities.
This year, 40% of participants are women, a significant increase from last year’s 30%, thanks to the SHE RUN initiative. The organizers hope to keep pushing for more inclusion and equal opportunities in endurance sports.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of Youssef Ait Meskouk, a young elite trail runner from Imlil who won last year’s 42 km race. He spoke about how, in the past, young people like him in villages such as Imlil didn’t have access to the world of trail running or the opportunities that come with it.
“Before, we didn’t even know what trail running was,” he told Morocco World News. “Now, thanks to HAUT, we’ve had the chance to train and even compete internationally.”
Youssef was one of the athletes who qualified to compete in Switzerland last year through a partnership with the Swiss Embassy and international races like Sierre-Zinal and Thyon-Dixence. The partnership, now in its second year, includes support with visas and full travel coverage for the top male and female winners of the HAUT 42 km race.
“Running in Switzerland with some of the best athletes in the world was a dream come true,” Youssef said. “This year, I hope to do even better, and maybe win again!” he added.
The organizers also spoke of the event’s continued commitment to the environment through the ITRA Green Commitment Program. Organizers aim to reduce waste, employ locals, and promote eco-friendly practices throughout the trail.
A new race shirt and symbolic medal were also unveiled at the press conference. The medal features Amazigh-inspired designs that proudly represent the region’s identity and values.
“This isn’t just a race; it’s a celebration of nature, culture, and community,” Bendoumou stated. “It’s also a chance to show the world the beauty of our region,” she added.
