In these regulations, you will find all the rules for participating with peace of mind, as well as the mandatory equipment list, bib collection conditions, and the control and aid station points. In the event of any conflict between the different language versions of these regulations as a whole, the original Catalan version shall prevail.
Runner’s Commitment
To participate in La Brava Trail, it is essential to:
- Be fully aware of the length and specific nature of the race and be properly prepared to take part.
- Have developed, before the race, a genuine ability to be self-sufficient in the mountains and to manage the challenges inherent to this type of event.
- Be able to cope independently with potentially difficult weather conditions caused by altitude, including darkness, wind, cold, fog, rain or snow.
- Be able to manage, even when isolated, physical or mental difficulties caused by extreme fatigue, digestive problems, muscle and/or joint pain, minor injuries, etc.
- Be fully aware that the role of the race organisation is not to help a runner manage their personal difficulties.
- Be fully aware that, in any similar mountain activity, safety depends first and foremost on the runner’s ability to adapt to both foreseeable and unforeseen difficulties.
- Inform and make their companions aware of the importance of respecting the environment, other people and the race regulations.
The athlete also undertakes to comply with all applicable laws and regulations along the race route, particularly the Highway Code and traffic regulations.
Semi-Autonomia
Semi-Self-Sufficiency
The principle of individual racing in semi-self-sufficiency is the standard. Participants must be prepared to carry their own fluids, food, and equipment (including clothing for adverse weather conditions) between aid stations. They must also be prepared, within the safety guidelines of the course, to deal with adverse or changing conditions. This principle of self-sufficiency entails the following rules:
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Each runner must carry all of the mandatory equipment throughout the entire race (see MANDATORY EQUIPMENT section). This equipment must be carried in a backpack (or similar), which may not be replaced during the race. Race officials may inspect the backpack (or similar) and its contents at any point during the race. Runners are required to cooperate with these checks in a courteous manner, failing which they may be disqualified.
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Aid stations provide food and drinks for consumption on site. The organisation only provides water or energy drink for refilling bottles or hydration packs. Each runner is responsible for ensuring that, when leaving each aid station, they have sufficient food and fluids to reach the next aid station.
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At La Brava, personal assistance is permitted exclusively at certain aid stations (*), within the area specifically designated for this purpose and at the discretion of the aid station manager. Assistance may only be provided by one person and without any specific equipment other than a bag with a maximum capacity of 30 litres. Assistance provided by professional teams or by any medical or paramedical professional is strictly prohibited. Only minor treatment of blisters/chafing and massages that can be performed while the runner remains seated in a chair are permitted; lying down is not allowed. All other areas within the aid station are strictly reserved for runners.
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Runners are prohibited from being accompanied or accepting assistance from any unregistered person for all or part of the course, except within the clearly designated tolerance zones near aid stations. Running with a dog or any other animal, including guide or service animals, is not permitted. Any participant who accepts assistance or accompaniment outside the expressly designated areas violates the principle of semi-self-sufficiency. Race officials witnessing such irregularities are authorised to penalise participants in order to preserve the spirit of the event.
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Runners are not permitted to participate with any dog or other animal, including service animals.
(*) The list of locations where personal assistance is permitted is the same as the controls and aid stations available at La Brava Trail.
Equipment List
Mandatory Equipment
- Backpack to carry the mandatory equipment (or similar)
- Emergency survival blanket (minimum 140 × 200 cm)
- Mobile phone with sufficient battery
- Headlamp with spare battery or batteries
- Whistle
- Reusable cup or soft flask
- Minimum 500 ml water reserve
- Waterproof jacket with hood
- Elastic bandage or compression bandage for immobilisation
- Identification document
- Race bib clearly visible at all times
Recommended Equipment
- Gloves and beanie
- Windbreaker or additional thermal layer
- Sunscreen
- Vaseline / anti-chafing cream
- Sufficient energy food between aid stations
Important
The organisation reserves the right to modify the mandatory equipment requirements depending on weather conditions.
Mandatory Team Equipment
The organiser publishes a basic mandatory equipment list applicable to all runners, regardless of the conditions.
The organiser also publishes a list of additional equipment, the items of which may be activated individually depending on the weather forecast and the conditions announced.
Each runner must have the basic mandatory equipment, as well as all additional equipment, in their possession before travelling to the event venue.
Any additional equipment activated will be communicated by the organisation no later than 24 hours before the start. All runners must start with all the basic equipment and any activated additional items.
All mandatory equipment must be carried by the runner, accessible and available for inspection at any time during the race. Sealed bags that cannot be resealed or any type of packaging that prevents an immediate inspection are prohibited. It is the runner’s sole responsibility to be able to present their equipment to race officials and authorised personnel, who are not required to search participants’ bags (even at the participants’ request).
For safety reasons and to ensure the smooth running of the event, all participants must have access to the complete list of mandatory equipment detailed below and carry all of this equipment, whether in use or not, throughout the entire race.
Systematic and/or random checks will be carried out during the race. Runners who do not carry all the mandatory equipment will be subject to a penalty or even disqualification.
It is important to note that the equipment required by the organisation represents the minimum essential equipment that each runner must adapt according to their own abilities. In particular, it is preferable not to choose the lightest items simply to save a few grams, but rather to opt for clothing that provides good protection against cold and wind, thus offering greater safety and better performance.
It is also important to pack all this equipment in such a way that it is protected from rain and does not become wet when it needs to be used (for example, by using waterproof bags).
All items of clothing must be the correct size for the participant and must not be modified from their original factory condition.
This equipment must be stored in a backpack (or similar) which may not be replaced during the course.
With the aim of reducing plastic waste, no disposable tableware (cutlery, cups or bowls) will be provided at any aid station. We encourage you to bring your own utensils (BYOU) if you wish to consume hot food at any aid station.
Any participant who decides to carry poles must carry them throughout the entire race. It is prohibited to start without poles and obtain or use them during the race. Poles will not be accepted in the drop bag. The use of poles may be prohibited in certain sections of the course, duly signposted, for safety or environmental reasons.
Music: Music may only be listened to using headphones, provided that it is safe to do so. Headphones must be removed when crossing any road, when approaching or while at a checkpoint, and when approaching or overtaking any member of the safety team.
If you have any further questions about the mandatory equipment, please do not hesitate to contact the organisation. The organisation reserves the right to modify the mandatory equipment requirements depending on weather conditions.
Race Bibs
Race bibs are issued individually to each runner upon presentation of a photo ID or passport.
The race bib must be worn on the chest or stomach and must be clearly visible in its entirety throughout the race. It must always be worn over all clothing and may under no circumstances be attached to the backpack (or similar) or to the leg. The names and logos of sponsors may not be modified or concealed.
The race bib is required to access the organisation’s transport, aid stations, medical stations, rest areas, showers, drop-off or bag collection areas, etc. The race bib will never be removed, except in the event of refusal to comply with the decision of a race official. In the event of withdrawal, it will be marked and deactivated.
Environmental Responsibility
When registering for La Brava Trail, participants commit to respecting the environment and the natural areas through which the race passes. In particular:
- It is strictly prohibited to leave waste (gel wrappers, paper, organic waste, plastic packaging, etc.) along the course. Waste bins are available at every aid station and must be used. Race officials will carry out checks along the course.
- All participants must keep their waste and packaging with them until they can dispose of it in the bins provided at the aid stations. The organisation recommends that runners carry a small bag to transport their waste to the next aid station.
- Participants must follow the trails as shown on the GPX route, without taking shortcuts. Leaving the designated trail causes harmful erosion of the area.
- No disposable tableware (cutlery, cups or bowls) will be provided at aid stations. This measure aims to reduce plastic consumption by both runners and La Brava volunteers. Therefore, we encourage you to bring your own cutlery and plate if you wish to eat hot food at an aid station.
Aid Stations
The organisation guarantees minimum solid and liquid refreshments throughout the entire course. Aid stations provide drinks and a limited selection of food for consumption on site. The organisation provides mineral water or energy drink for refilling hydration packs and the mandatory individual cups. It is the runner’s responsibility to ensure that, when leaving each aid station, they have sufficient food and fluids to reach the next aid station.
Only participants wearing a visible and correctly positioned race bib are allowed access to the aid stations.
The Runner’s Guide will provide the precise list of aid stations and their contents.
Rules Enforcement and Control
The Race Director appoints one or more race officials responsible for identifying breaches of the regulations. Race officials are identified by a named accreditation indicating their role.
Race officials and authorised personnel may identify any breach of the regulations through direct observation or by any other means of evidence.
The Race Director will make a decision based on the evidence collected. Checks may be carried out at the finish line, at any aid station, and at designated medical or control points.
Random and surprise checks may also be carried out at locations other than medical or control points and aid stations. The organisation will not communicate their location.
Course Marking
La Brava does not use course markers or any type of artificial signage along the route, as this would go against the spirit of the event and its respect for the natural environment.
Navigation is carried out by following the GPX track provided by the organisation and paying close attention to the route, especially during night sections.
ATTENTION: If you are unsure about the route or lose the track, turn back until you reach the correct point.
Out of respect for the environment, no paint or markings of any kind are used on the trails.
Safety and Medical Assistance
There are several aid points along the course. These points are connected by radio or telephone to the Race Control Centre. A medical team will be present at the control centre or on the course throughout the race.
The aid points are intended to provide assistance to anyone in danger using the organisation’s own resources or public emergency services.
It is the responsibility of each participant in difficulty to request assistance:
- By going to an aid point/checkpoint.
- By calling the Race Control Centre (RCC).
- By asking another participant to request assistance.
Every participant must assist anyone in difficulty and notify the Race Control Centre. If it is impossible to contact the RCC, it is possible to call the emergency services directly (particularly in areas where only emergency calls are possible). Emergency numbers will be specified in the Runner’s Guide.
Any circumstances related to the environment or the race may justify a delay in assisting. While waiting, your safety depends on the quality of the equipment you carry in your backpack. Participants must rely on their own resources to ensure their safety.
Official medical professionals and rescue personnel, as well as anyone appointed by the Race Director, are authorised to:
- Remove from the race any participant who is deemed unfit to continue.
- Require any participant to use any item of mandatory equipment.
- Evacuate, by any means necessary, any runner considered to be in danger.
- Hospitalise any participant whose medical condition requires it.
Any participant treated by a doctor or rescue worker, assisted by a rescue team, or rescued, is subject to their authority and agrees to comply with their decisions.
If a runner’s health condition requires intravenous treatment, the runner will be withdrawn from the race.
A medical station will be available at the finish line for the duration of the events. Any participant with serious medical problems may go there. Comfort treatment will be provided at the discretion of the medical staff and subject to their availability.
Any participant who voluntarily leaves the GPX track will no longer be the responsibility of the organisation.
Time Limit and Cut-Off Times
The cut-off times at the main checkpoints will be defined and communicated in the Runner’s Guide. In the event of any changes due to exceptional circumstances, the new cut-off times will also be communicated via social media, email or SMS/text message. The maximum time limit and cut-off times are calculated based on the official start time.
These cut-off times are calculated to allow participants to reach the finish line within the established maximum time, including any necessary stops (food, rest, etc.). In order to be allowed to continue the race, participants must leave the checkpoint before the established cut-off time, regardless of their arrival time at the checkpoint.
Any runners who withdraw, are stopped by the organisation, or are outside the official cut-off times are not permitted to continue the race. Their race bib will be marked, and they will only be transported back to the event area by the organisation’s transport in the event of a medical emergency.
Withdrawal and return to the Finish Area
Except in the event of an injury, a runner may only withdraw at a checkpoint. They must notify the checkpoint manager or the Race Control Centre.
If a participant decides to withdraw between two checkpoints, they must make their way to a checkpoint and report their withdrawal there.
The runner must keep their race bib as a pass to access the organisation’s transport in the event of a medical emergency, medical care areas, etc.
After withdrawing, there is no transport back to the finish area, except in the event of a medical emergency.
In the event of adverse weather conditions that justify the partial or total suspension of the race, the organisation cannot guarantee the return to the finish area of all participants at risk or requiring medical assistance.
Rest Areas
During the race, runners will not have designated rest areas at the aid stations. However, runners must arrange their own rest area.
Exceptional Circumstances
If circumstances require it, the organisation reserves the right to modify the course, start times, cut-off times, the location of aid stations and assistance points, and any other aspect related to the proper running of the event at any time.
In the event of force majeure, severe weather conditions or any other circumstance that may affect the safety of participants, the organisation reserves the right to:
- Modify the start time.
- Modify the cut-off times.
- Change the start date.
- Modify the course, including shortening its distance.
- Cancel the event.
- Neutralise the event.
- Stop the race while it is in progress.
Complaints and Appeals
Any complaint involving a change to the results or rankings must be submitted by email within 60 minutes of the end of the event.
Any other complaint must be submitted by email within 7 days of the race.
Image Rights
All participants expressly waive their right to object to the use of their image during the event, as well as any claim against the organiser and its partners regarding the use of their image. Only the organisation may grant this image right to any media outlet through appropriate accreditation or licensing.
La Brava Trail® and Run Costa Brava® are legally registered trademarks. Any communication about the event or use of images from the event must respect the event name and registered trademarks and have the official approval of the organisation.
Individual Sponsors
Runners who have sponsors or use a third-party brand for promotional purposes may only display such third-party branding on their clothing and equipment during the competition.
The use, carrying or display of any other promotional items, including but not limited to flags, banners or signs, is not permitted along the race course, including the finish line.
Failure to comply with this provision may result in a penalty, at the sole discretion of the respective Race Directors.
Insurance
Civil Liability Insurance: The organiser takes out civil liability insurance for the duration of the event. This liability insurance covers the financial consequences of the organiser’s liability, as well as that of its employees, volunteers and participants.
Individual Accident Insurance for Runners: Each competitor must have individual accident insurance covering search and evacuation costs. This insurance may be taken out with any organisation chosen by the competitor.
NB: Helicopter evacuations are chargeable. The decision to evacuate by helicopter is made exclusively by the organisation.
The choice of evacuation method and hospital destination is the sole decision of the organisation.
Any costs arising from the use of exceptional rescue or evacuation services shall be borne by the rescued person, who is also responsible for arranging their return from the location to which they have been evacuated. It is the runner’s sole responsibility to collect and submit the relevant documentation to their personal insurance provider within the established deadline.
Terms and Conditions
1. ORGANISATION
La Brava Trail is a trail running event organised by La Brava Trail / Run Costa Brava.
Registration implies full acceptance of these terms and conditions.
2. PARTICIPATION AND RESPONSIBILITY
Participation is open to persons aged 18 or over.
The participant declares that:
- They are in suitable physical and mental condition
- They are aware of the demands of a long-distance race
- They are participating voluntarily
Participation is undertaken under the sole responsibility of the participant.
3. EVENT CHARACTERISTICS
- Long-distance race
- Partial self-sufficiency format
- Mixed terrain: trails, tracks, urban sections and natural areas
- Staggered and non-mass start
The organisation may modify the course or schedules for safety reasons.
4. REGISTRATION AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Registration is considered valid once payment has been made.
No refunds will be issued in the event of:
- Non-participation
- Injury
- Personal circumstances or changes
Exceptions will only be considered if explicitly communicated by the organisation.
In the event of cancellation due to force majeure:
- A refund is not guaranteed
- The organisation may offer alternatives (change of date, etc.)
5. SAFETY AND INSURANCE
The event has:
- Civil liability insurance
- Accident insurance for participants
However:
- The participant assumes the risks inherent to the activity
- The organisation is not responsible for:
- Injuries resulting from participation
- Damage to third parties caused by the participant
- Loss, theft or damage to personal equipment
6. MANDATORY EQUIPMENT
Participants must carry the mandatory equipment specified by the organisation.
The organisation reserves the right to carry out checks at any time.
Failure to comply may result in:
- A penalty
- Disqualification
7. ENVIRONMENT
The race takes place in protected natural environments.
It is mandatory to:
- Not leave waste
- Respect the environment
Any violation may result in immediate disqualification.
8. TRAFFIC REGULATIONS
On sections open to traffic:
- Participants must comply with traffic regulations
- Proceed with caution
- Respect pedestrians and vehicles
9. IMAGE RIGHTS
By registering, the participant authorises:
- The use of their image in photographs and videos taken during the event.
- Its dissemination on the La Brava Trail and Run Costa Brava websites, social media and communication channels.
For promotional purposes related to the event.
10. DATA PROTECTION (GDPR)
Personal data will be processed by La Brava Trail for the purpose of managing participation in the event.
Participants may exercise their rights of access, rectification or deletion by contacting the organisation.
Data will not be shared with third parties, except where legally required or necessary for the proper management of the race.
11. CONDUCT
Participants must:
- Respect volunteers and the organisation
- Follow the designated course
- Maintain appropriate conduct
The organisation may remove any participant who fails to comply with these rules.
12. FINAL ACCEPTANCE
Registration for La Brava Trail implies full acceptance of these terms and conditions.
Policy Statement
In accordance with our Code of Ethics, any ostentatious display of political images or messages during the event is prohibited.
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