Mátraházi Edzőtábor hosts the Kékes Iconic Trail, a new, limited trail race with the direct warning: “Steep it will be!” This is mountain running in the Mátra style, with Gyöngyösfalu and Gyöngyös utca as the location and a field capped at 300 runners. It should feel more like a challenging day out with determined participants than a crowded road event.
The route choices are Kishalál and Nagyhalál, Little Death and Big Death, indicating the challenge before you even pin on the personalized bib. Expect a course marked with ribbons and signs, with refreshments, timing, photos, a finisher medal, and medical cover. At the finish, practical rewards include a hot meal and a shower before the legs stiffen.