As trail running evolves, event planning tool, Gretel Planner, note that so too do the needs of both athletes and event organisers.
Skyrunning events, known for their rugged terrain, steep elevation, and raw natural landscapes, have carved a unique space in the world of trail running. Here, events typically range from 30km to 60km – not extremely long, but highly technical, requiring focus and preparation from every participant.
In the past two years, Gretel Planner has focused its development on supporting these demanding races, partnering with some of the most iconic events worldwide. In 2025, the event planning platform will support key races in the international skyrunning scene. These include: Acantilados del Norte, Kailas Penang Skyrace, Gorbeia Suzien, and the prestigious Marató dels Dements, the Skyrunner World Series final.
Other notable events such Ultra Skyrunning Madeira and Mallorca 5000 Skyrunning will also rely on Gretel this season.
Gretel Planner helps to transform complex, technical courses into clear, actionable data for runners. The platform provides detailed information on each course segment: terrain type, elevation changes, technical zones, aid stations, and time cut-offs.
In races with challenging rocky ridgelines or steep descents, knowing when to expect tough sections or when to fuel can be the difference between finishing strong and not finishing at all. This data enables athletes to plan their pace and nutrition – seen as a critical element in races that can last from 3 to 12 hours, even over shorter distances.
Beyond race planning, Gretel adds that it has become a discovery platform for trail runners. With over 15,000 active users, it’s a space for athletes to find new races around the world.
