Based on the idea of Philipp, ten trail runners take on the Alps to observe the folly of division. Europe was once divided. It was nation against nation, alliance against alliance. Borders were militarized and wars claimed millions of lives. No longer. 

One of the former conflict zones is the border in the Alps between South Tyrol, Italy, and its northern neighbor, Austria. Opposing troops fought over this line when Italy annexed South Tyrol on 10 October 1920.

One hundred years later, starting on 6th October, 10 runners ran along this historic frontier to celebrate the hard won and fragile unity that Europe now enjoys. Follow their adventure on 850 km with 55,000 m in elevation gain in breathtaking scenery.

The border – a thing of human imagination – pens its way through majestic mountain landscapes and breathtaking nature. Relics of darker times – forts, bunkers and trenches – are dotted along the border where mountain soldiers battled during the First World War.

The aim of the AlpFrontTrail run is to celebrate Europe’s unity and freedom and to observe the historical tragedy of division and rigid nationalism. By running this line of separation, the athletes seek to remind us all of the importance of unity and Europe’s shared cultural heritage. We take this for granted at our own peril.