Registration

What are ITRA points?

ITRA points (International Trail Running Association) measure race difficulty on a scale from 1 to 6, based on distance and cumulative elevation gain. Many races award them to finishers, but some also require them for registration to ensure participants have enough experience.

For example, the Transgrancanaria Classic 128K requires 4 ITRA points (or 6 UTMB Index points), while races like Zegama-Aizkorri have no point requirements. If this is your first season, start with races that don't require points and build your experience gradually.

Full guide: ITRA points and UTMB Index explained — race tables, requirements and how to earn your first points.

Medical certificate and ECG

Most trail races in Spain require a valid medical certificate. Some events, especially longer distances and UTMB circuit races, require the certificate to include a resting electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG is a simple test that detects potential cardiac abnormalities and can be performed by any sports medicine doctor.

Tip: get your medical check-up well in advance. Some clinics take weeks to schedule an appointment, and the certificate is usually valid for 12 months, so one per year covers all your races.

Federation license vs day insurance

If you hold a federation license (FEDME, RFEA Trail, or regional), you already have sports accident insurance that covers most races. If you don't, many organizers offer day insurance for a supplement of 5-10 EUR when you register. Some races even offer a small discount for licensed runners. Consider whether an annual license is worth it based on how many races you run per year.

Direct registration vs lottery

Most races use direct registration: spots open on a specific date and fill up on a first-come, first-served basis. The most popular ones sell out in hours or even minutes — Zegama-Aizkorri being the classic example.

Other events, like Ultra Pirineu or Penyagolosa Trails, use a pre-registration and lottery system: you sign up during a window period and spots are then assigned randomly. This reduces the pressure of the first minute but doesn't guarantee a spot. In both cases, the key is to stay on top of opening dates.