Grand Raid de la Reunion 20 – 23 October

Imagine climbing 9000m, the equivalent of nine Table Mountains, or eight marathons in a row!

Just when you think Reunion Island cannot deliver any more adventure, this alluring French Indian Ocean Island destination brings to you the Grand Raid de la Réunion or the La diagonale des fous, aka The Madmen’s Diagonal. This mountainous ultramarathon race takes place annually in October on Reunion Island, and this year it is happening from 20th – 23rd October 2016, the final stage of the ultra-trail world tour.

Combining tropical landscapes that become alpine, with wetlands that turn to dry volcanic slopes, Reunion Island provides the ultimate background for those attempting this physical feat. From start to finish competitors climb 5 peaks with the highest point at 2411m. The distance is 162km but with over 9000m of elevation gain. The marathon must be completed within 60 hours but has been done in as little as 26 hours in the past.

There are 3 races which participants can take part in, each with their own entry regulations, and of course physical challenges. The Diagonale des Fous route, the Trail de Bourbon route and the Mascareignes route.

This years’ event will see three enthusiastic runners from South Africa competing – Bonne chance (good luck)!

For more information on the La Diagonale de Fous, visit the official website http://www.grandraid-reunion.com/english or contact the Reunion Tourism Board via www.reunion.fr or follow Reunion Island on social media.