Big Bear's Ultra BBU100+

Big Bear's Ultra BBU100+ is a 118 km mountain ultra based in Žilina, Slovakia, featuring 6300 meters of climbing and a 30-hour cutoff. This long race carries a UTMB Index in the 100M category, placing it in the serious trail running category rather than casual fun runs. The broader Big Bear's Ultra program also offers a 62 km BBU60+ with 3500 meters of gain, a BBU40, and a relay, providing runners multiple options for the Slovak trail weekend. The BBU100+ and relay begin at Budatín Castle, with all races concluding back at the castle after a route that visits three other castles. The course crosses the hills of Kysucká vrchovina, directs the long-distance runners towards the peaks of Malá Fatra, and extends into the rugged Strážovské vrchy. The terrain includes runnable meadows, forest paths, rocky technical sections, steep ascents and descents, a river crossing, and a 15 km stretch with numerous ascents and descents. The field is small, maintaining a rugged and local feel: one recent BBU100+ edition saw 79 finishers, with Matej Nidorfer winning overall and Jana Dobrovolná leading the women.