Bali Trail Ultra a new Candidate in Indonesia

Bali is probably Indonesia’s best-known holiday island, but contrary to Java it has not yet really developed a culture in trail running or sports events in general. It is very complicated to set up events on Bali, as we also found out in ATM when last year’s X Trail event already got cancelled after just two editions. However, things seems to be changing now as we have recently been approached by no fewer than three different event organisers who are all introducing new trail events on the island in 2020 and aim to be part of the ATM Championship series in 2021! The first ATM Candidate Race that will take place on 5-7 June 2020 is the Bali Ultra Trail by recently crowned Asia Trail Grandmaster Dendi Dwitiandi.

Bali Ultra Trail proposes a very rich programme with no fewer than five race categories on and around the famous Gunung Batur volcano, arguably the most popular and accessible hiking destination on the island. Ultra runners can look forward to an 80k and 50k category, less ambitious runners can focus on a 33K, 22K or 11K race. Resto Apung in Kintamani is scheduled to be the main event centre, although the 80K will commence at the Batur Museum Geopark.

This could be stereotypical Indonesian trail race with lots of elevation gain. The precise route is yet to be confirmed but the current advanced draft contains a big 5000 hm for the 80K and 3250 hm for the 50k. Even the 33K is projected to have 2300 hm. The terrain will be a mix of runable and technical, but clearly one will require solid climbing power.

The amazing views of volcano mountains, lakes, forests, villages, hot springs and the friendliness of the residents will make for an unforgettable experience. To get there, you obviously need to fly into the international aiport near Kuta in the south. Transportation to Kintamani is easy to find, we do recommend you book a car, taxi or bus in advance. Most hotels in Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur or other Nusa Dua beach areas can also arrange for you should you wish to stay in a hotel over there.

Registrations are set to open on 5 January.