💨🌞🏃♂️ Run the 82 km of the Corsa della Bora with us and Holger, who is preparing for the Transalpine Run in a few weeks 🏔️. The 82 km of the Corsa della Bora is an experience filled with extraordinary sensations and landscapes 🌄🌌, a journey that crosses day and night 🌞🌙, mountains and sea 🌲🌊. Join us! 🌟👟
Holger Schulze, a passionate trailer from Munich, is a veteran of the Corsa della Bora, and has already participated in our race three times, particularly in the 57 km distance. He is fascinated by the marvelous landscape and the opportunity to run a challenging ultramarathon with pleasant temperatures already in January. In this article, we will explore the 82 km course through his eyes. You can follow him on Instagram su trail.holger.schulze.
This was your third participation in the 57 km race of the Corsa della Bora. What drives you to return every year?
The fantastic landscape and the opportunity to run a challenging ultramarathon with pleasant temperatures already in January.
The Corsa della Bora – 82 km, or “Tek z Burjo,” is much more than just a race. It’s a journey through the fascinating landscape of the region, capturing both the rugged beauties of the Karst and the gentle shores of the sea.
What parts of the course do you like the most? And which ones the least?
The course is very varied, and I like all parts, especially the technical passages of the Karst and the trail right by the sea at the end.
Over the years, the race course has often changed. Do you like the idea that the race is always renewed, or do you prefer to confront yourself with the same course every year?
I prefer variety, so I like the new courses more.
For whom do you think the Corsa della Bora is ideal?
Since seven distances between 9k and 164k are offered, the Corsa della Bora is ideal for all trail runners and even road runners who want to try a competition on a trail. The early date at the beginning of January is a great motivation to train even in the months of November and December, typically without competitions.
Runners of the Corsa della Bora – 82 km have the unique opportunity to choose their starting time: either at midnight or at 5 in the morning. This peculiarity opens the door to two completely different experiences. The start time is individually timed for each runner through the chip time, so everyone can run their own race with an actual running time.
A midnight start completely changes the experience. The darkness of the night intensifies every sensation; the rugged landscapes of the Karst and the forests take on a mystical dimension. It’s a time for those who see the run as a journey and experience, where the feeling of the moment and the connection to nature are paramount.
Starting at dawn, on the other hand, offers a completely different approach. Increased visibility allows for higher speeds, and one less piece of clothing means a certain lightness and flexibility. This is the time for those who focus on physical performance, for those who want to embrace the challenge of speed and endurance.
The choice of starting time thus allows each participant to find their own path and enjoy the race in a way that matches their character and preferences. It’s a wonderful acknowledgment of the individuality and diversity that running offers, and an invitation to experience the Corsa della Bora journey in a very personal way.
The course passes through some of the most beautiful places in the region. The castles of Crni Kal and Socerb stand as witnesses to the rich history of this area, while the Karst ridges and the shimmering sea remain ever in the background to inspire runners. The white of the limestone, reflecting in the headlamps, meets the gentle lighting of Trieste, creating a dramatic backdrop for this adventurous race.
With what other runs would you compare it? Similar or completely different?
What advice would you give someone wanting to participate in this run?
Register early for motivation, train well in the fourth quarter with regular trail runs, and vary the distance (short/medium/long) and speed (slow/medium/fast). I run the 57k and train in the fourth quarter, averaging about 75 km / 2,000 D+ per week, 80% moderate and 20% intense.
The first part of the S1 Trail takes place along the border between Italy and Slovenia, in a continental context of the Karst plateau. The second part then descends into the Val Rosandra, with its Dolomite pebbles, reminiscent of the high plateau but located near the sea.
At the 40th-kilometer refreshment station, there is the characteristic waterproof S1 bag, perfect for all races, with a 40-liter capacity. Here the changeover awaits runners to tackle the last 40 kilometers along the karst ridge. This final stretch is run together with the 57, 42, 32, and 21 km runners, providing a constant succession of views of the gulf and the snow-capped mountains in the background.
The dramatic seaside finale, requiring great physical strength and concentration, leads to an unforgettable conclusion on the rocky beach. The Corsa della Bora – The Bora Race – 82 km is not just a competition, but an invitation to experience the region in a way that will leave a lasting impression, and a expression to the joy and beauty of running.
What are your sporting goals for 2024?
I plan to run about 10 races, the highlight will be my 19th start at the 19th edition of www.transalpine-run.com. Those who want to follow me can find me on Instagram trail.holger.schulze.
What do you eat before the race? What do you take with you for the race?
Before the race, I have a light breakfast, for example, toast with jam. For the race, I take energy bars and gels, and of course, I take advantage of the excellent refreshment points.
