Trail run series "Stirnu buks 2025"

(seven stages)

REGULATIONS

Goal

The goal of the trail run series “Stirnu buks 2024″ is to bring the participants to excellent picturesque trails in Latvian forests – where a person becomes better, more friendly, warm-hearted, and open!
To encourage every person in Latvia to run into the forest, see the most beautiful places in Latvia, and spend time with family and friends!
To promote running and Nordic walking as a healthy and exciting hobby.
To promote a healthy and sporty lifestyle for people of all ages. “A healthy mind in a healthy body!”

Organizers

The trail running series “Stirnu buks 2025,” hereinafter referred to as the Trail Run, is organized by the association “Engures sportam” in collaboration with SIA “Platforma.lv.”

1. Distances

1.1. The Trail Run takes place on roads and trails with different covers (asphalt, rural roads with gravel, forest roads, trails, cross-rides, long forgotten and abandoned trails, and off-road).
1.2.1. There are five different trail running distances in each trail run:
distance “GARDU MUTI Susurs” (Dormouse): ~1km run for children aged up to 10 yrs.
distance “Vāvere” (Squirrel) / “LVM Championship for School Youth 2024”: 5-7km,
distance “KARTE VESELĪBA Zaķis” (Hare): 11-13km,
distance “VENDEN Stirnu buks” (Roebuck): 18-24km,
distance “GARMIN Lūsis” (Lynx): 25–42km (in the Trail Run of the 25th May “Dubuļu Styrnu buks”, the distance “Lūsis” (Lynx) is replaced with the ultra-long trail run distance “GARMIN FĒNIX Vilks” (Wolf) ~70km).
1.2.2. At every trail run, there are also three different walking distances without timing::
walking distance “Zaķis” (Hare): 10-14km,
walking distance “Stirnu buks” (Roebuck): 18-24km,
walking distance “Lūsis” (Lynx): 27-42km,
1.3. Participants of the distances “Zaķis” (Hare), “Stirnu buks” (Roebuck), and “Lūsis” (Lynx) take part in the speed stage competing for the title of the Queen/ King of the run “SALOMON Roebuck King/ Queen”, where control measurements are made within a separate section of 200-600 m to determine participants who have been fastest on this section.
1.4. The race courses are labeled, providing directions and warning information!
1.5. The distance “Susurs” [Dormouse] participants complete the course WITHOUT timing, and prizes are not awarded! All the distance “Susurs” [Dormouse] participants receive a medal and snacks for finishing.
1.6. The results of participants in distances “Vāvere” [Squirrel], “Zaķis” [Hare], “Buks” and “Lūsis” [Lynx] are recorded by using the electronic timing system.

2. Participants and age groups

2.1. Participants aged up to 10 years run the distance “Susurs” (Dormouse);
2.2. Anybody aged 7 years and above can run the distance “Vāvere” (Squirrel);
2.3. Participants aged 8 years and above can run the distance “Zaķis” (Hare);
2.4. Participants aged 16 years and above can run the distance “Stirnu buks” (Roebuck);
2.5. Participants aged 18 years and above can run the distance “Lūsis” (Lynx);
2.6. A participant or his/ her guardian takes full responsibility for conforming to the participant’s health condition for completing the distance on the race day. The race organizers do not bear liability for possible trauma or accidents involving participants during the race. Every participant is responsible for their safety during the race by following the road traffic rules and the organizers’ recommendations.
2.7. The first medical aid is provided at the start/ finish spot of the race or in the course as necessary.
2.8. Participants of the distances “Zaķis” (Hare), “Buks” and “Lūsis” (Lynx) are divided into the following age groups:

Distance "Zaķis"::

Female Male
SZ1 2001 – 2017 (8-24 years) VZ1 2001 – 2017 (8-24 years)
SZ2 1986 – 2000 (25-39 years) VZ2 1985 – 1999 (25-39 years)
SZ3 1971 – 1985 (40-54years) VZ3 1970 – 1984 (40-54years)
SZ4 Born 1970 and before (55+ years) VZ4 Born 1969 and before (55+ years)

Distance "Stirnu buks":: 

Female Male
SB1  1986 – 2009 (16-39 years) VB1  1986 – 2009 (16-39 years)
SB2 1971 – 1985 (40-54years) VB2 1971 – 1985 (40-54years)
SB3 Born 1970 and before (55+ years) VB3 Born 1970 and before (55+ years)

Distance "Lūsis"::

Female Male
SL1 1986 – 2007 (18-39 years) VL1 1986 – 2007 (18-39 years)
SL2 1971 – 1985 (40-54years) VL2 1971 – 1985 (40-54years)
SL3 Born 1970 and before (55+ years) VL3 Born 19670 and before (55+ years)

3. Time and venue of the race

3.1. Races will take place:
• 05.04. "Dzimtā meža (Native Forest) Stirnu buks" I Āžu Hill, Tukums District
• 11.05. "Jaunakmenes (Naujoji Akmene) Stirnu buks" I Akmenė Quarry, Jaunakmene, Lithuania
• 21.06. "Saulgriežu nakts (Midsummer Night) Stirnu buks" I _________ District
• 02.08. "Sēlijas Vylks" I _________ District
• 13.09. "Pilsēttakas (City Trail) Stirnu buks" I  _________ District
• 11.10. "Grand Finale Stirnu buks" I _________ District

(Exact locations for stages 3 to 6 will be announced by the end of 2024).

4. Registration

4.1. Registration of participants for individual races is done on the homepage https://www.stirnubuks.lv/ at the section “Your Profile page”, starting from the 1st of February 2024. Online registration is closed at noon on Thursday before each relevant stage!
4.2. Last-minute registration is possible on the race date at the race center; however, at the latest, 30 minutes before the start of the relevant distance.
4.3. The start fee includes the racer’s bib, the first medical aid at the venue of the race, the course labeling and the reference work, organizational costs of the race, snack, and water stations along the course, catering after the finish, a memory medal for everybody completing any distance, car parking, a free photo gallery and a video review on the website of the race, the timing for the participants of the distances “Vāvere” (Squirrel) (Squirrel), “Zaķis” (Hare) (Hare), “Buks” (Roebuck) and “Lūsis” (Lynx) (Lynx)
4.4. Participants may change the distance they have registered for, replace a participant with another one, and transfer their Start Fee to the next stage (all the changes are made in the section “Your Profile page”). However, the latest is until noon on Tuesday of the relevant race week. There is no extra fee for making changes!
4.5. All the changes requested later should be performed on the Race day in the Registration tent “New Registration”. A new bib with a new timing chip will be issued to the participant, with an extra fee of 10.- EUR will be charged.

5. Participation Fee

5.1. Registration fees for each stage are listed on the official website and apply until the Thursday of the competition week at 12:00.
5.2. The season pass for the "Stirnu buks" 2025 series is also available. Additional charges apply for the "Vilks" ultra-distance (€30).
5.3. Discounts are available for specific groups as outlined on the website.
5.4. Payments can be made via bank transfer or card when registering online. If an invoice is required, select the option during registration.
5.5. Last-minute registration on the competition day can be paid via card or cash, depending on internet availability.

6. Awards

  • Top 3 participants in the overall standings for the distances “School Championship,” “Vāvere,” “Zaķis,” “Buks,” and “Lūsis” in male and female categories will receive awards.
  • The top 3 finishers in the age groups listed in section 2.8 will also be awarded for the distances “Zaķis,” “Buks,” and “Lūsis.”
  • Series winners in the overall standings will be awarded during the final stage.

7. Individual Rankings

The new scoring system for overall rankings will be published by January 31, 2025.

8. Team Rankings

The new scoring system for team rankings will be published by January 31, 2025.

9. Competition Procedure

9.1. Participants in each distance will start together. The winner is the first to complete the course.
9.2. The competition occurs on marked trails with blue-white directional signs and special warnings.
9.3. Local or state police, National Guard personnel, or referees will monitor road crossings.
9.4. Water stations are provided along the course.
9.4.1. Disposable cups will not be available at some water stations; participants must bring their cups, water systems, or bottles.
9.5. Split times will be recorded at designated intermediate points.
9.6. Organizers do not guarantee transportation to the finish if a participant withdraws. In case of health issues, participants must seek help from referees or other participants and contact organizers.

10. Time Limits

Time limits for each distance are as follows:

  • "Vāvere": 2 hours.
  • "Zaķis": 3 hours.
  • "Stirnu buks": 4 hours.
  • "Lūsis": 6 hours.
  • "Vilks": 16 hours.
  • For walking distances, “Zaķis”: 6 hours, “Stirnu buks”: 8 hours.

The standings will not include results if participants exceed the time limits.

11. Publicity and Privacy

11.1. Photography and filming will take place during the competition.
11.2. By registering, participants agree that the organizers may use photos and videos for PR and advertising purposes.
11.3. Participant lists and results will be published on the event website.

12. Rules

12.1. Each participant in the distances "Vāvere," "Zaķis," "Buks," and "Lūsis" will receive a timing chip with their race number. Timekeeping is conducted at the start, finish, and intermediate checkpoints. The race number is used to identify participants on the course and record results, ensuring compliance with the rules and principles of fair competition.
12.1.1. The race number must remain visible to the participant throughout the entire race.
12.1.2. The race number may not be transferred to another person during the event.
12.1.3. The race number must be pinned or secured on the front of the participant's body, between the chest and waistline.
12.1.4. In timekeeping zones (start, finish, checkpoints), participants must ensure the timing chip is not obstructed by bags, belts, or body parts.
12.1.5. Organizers are not obligated to record results. They may disqualify participants who do not comply with the race number requirements, such as carrying it folded, obscured, or handing it to another person.

12.2. Participants under 18 must have a guardian who signs the registration form. Organizers are not responsible for injuries incurred during the event.
12.3. Participants may not be accompanied by bicycles or non-participant runners during the race.
12.4. Spectators are prohibited from providing water outside of designated water stations. Participants may not use water offered by spectators outside these stations.
12.5. Participants requesting medical assistance must follow the medical team’s instructions regarding their fitness to continue.
12.6. Any participant caught cheating or not completing the entire course will be disqualified based on checkpoint data, referee observations, or video surveillance.
12.7. Participants must not litter along the course and carry any waste to the next water station or designated disposal point.
12.8. The event takes place under partially restricted traffic conditions.
12.9. All participants must adhere to road traffic safety rules.
12.10. Participants should be cautious of vehicles entering from homes, fields, meadows, and forest roads.
12.11. When crossing roads, participants must yield to vehicles.
12.12. Organizers are not liable for collisions or accidents caused by participant or driver negligence.
12.13. Participants encountering issues during the race must assist others in need by providing first aid or notifying medical personnel.
12.14. No mandatory equipment is required for the distances "Vāvere," "Zaķis," "Stirnu buks," and "Lūsis." Participants are responsible for ensuring they have suitable equipment for the conditions.
12.15. For the "Vilks" distance, recommended (but not mandatory) equipment is suggested for participant safety.
12.16. Participants using poles must ensure they do not obstruct or injure others.
12.17. Participants must uphold fair play principles, including mutual respect and sportsmanship.

13. Disqualification and Protests

13.1. Organizers may disqualify participants who violate public order, fair play principles, or event rules or deliberately use another participant’s assistance.
13.2. Participants may use auxiliary equipment (e.g., poles) but must carry them for the entire race. Using poles to block others is prohibited.
13.3. Organizers may disqualify participants deemed unfit to continue.
13.4. Protests require a €30 deposit. If the protest is upheld, the fee will be refunded.
13.5. The referee panel reviews protests.

14. Amendments to the Rules

14.1. Organizers reserve the right to make changes to the rules. Updates will be communicated via the website, social media, or email. Participants are responsible for staying informed about rule changes.

15. Principles for Responsible Behavior in Protected Natural Areas

15.1. Plan your visit sustainably:

  • Avoid unnecessary environmental impact.
  • Where possible, travel to the event by foot, bicycle, or public transport.
  • If driving, carpool and use designated parking areas.
  • Arrive early to avoid congestion and stress.
    15.2. Respect the environment:
  • Stay on marked trails and follow site-specific rules.
  • Keep dogs under control to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Be ready to assist others regardless of their activity or distance.
  • Maintain cleanliness by taking all waste with you.
  • Report any issues to event organizers.

16. Organizer Information

Association "Engures sportam"

  • Reg. No.: 40008191691
  • Address: Jūras iela 85, Engure, Engures pagasts, Tukuma novads, LV3113
  • Bank: A/S Swedbank
  • IBAN: LV30HABA0551037623352

Technical Support:
SIA Platforma.lv

  • Reg. No.: LV40103282933
  • Address: Gatves iela 11, Ķesterciems, Engures pagasts, Tukuma novads, LV3113
  • Bank: A/S Swedbank
  • IBAN: LV16HABA0551027908278

Step outside and enjoy nature! SEE YOU IN THE FOREST!