Trail Kuršių Nerija 2024 (104 km)

 On October 19th, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure at the Kuršių Nerija Trail, a breathtaking 104 km course that showcased the stunning landscapes of Lithuania. From lush forests and serene beaches to charming coastal villages, this trail run promised both challenge and beauty...

  Map of the trail...

  The race kicked off at 8:00 AM from the iconic Nida Sun Clock, and I was eager to embrace the picturesque trails ahead...

 Soon after the start, our route passed the Nida airport runway, accompanied by a beautiful sunrise...

The course was nothing short of stunning, weaving through serene forests, pristine beaches along the sea, and charming villages nestled near the bay. Every step brought new vistas, making the journey as rewarding as the finish line itself... 

  Throughout the race, there were 8 aid stations strategically placed along the course, each stocked with water and food to help runners refuel and stay hydrated...

  These stops were crucial, especially during the tougher stretches, and they kept me going as I pushed through the second half of the race. The support along the way truly made a difference in helping me recover and run strong...

  As I reached the 50 km mark, I started to feel some pain in my left leg, which prompted me to adjust my pace. Initially running at an average speed of 10.5 to 11 km/h, I found myself slowing down to 8-9 km/h. While it was disheartening to reduce my speed, I realized that this adjustment allowed me to recover and keep going, which was crucial for finishing the race...

  Despite the challenges, I pushed through and crossed the finish line with a time of 10:56, securing 12th place overall. My average speed for the race was approximately 9,55 km/h. The feeling of accomplishment after completing such a demanding trail run, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, was exhilarating...

  The day after finishing the race, we decided to stay in Nida to fully recharge. After a well-deserved sleep and a hearty breakfast, we headed to the beach to take advantage of the sunny weather...

  Despite being in the final weeks of October, with the Baltic Sea's chilly waters ahead of us, I couldn't resist the urge to take a dip. It was cold, yes, but there's something invigorating about plunging into the sea after such an intense race - it felt like the perfect way to round off the experience...

  This ultramarathon was not just a test of endurance but also a reminder of the beauty that nature has to offer. I look forward to more adventures on the trails and the stories that come with them...