Stirnu buks returns to its native forest in the Tukums region
Text: Elīna Putene
On Saturday, September 14th, the penultimate, 6th stage of the trail running series “Stirnu buks” will occur in the Sveikuļi forest of the Tukums region. This event is significant as it returns to its native grounds near the capital. The routes will lead through the hills and twists of the Tukums region forests. The organizers describe this stage as rough and technical, yet beautiful and soulful, much like the main course planner of this stage, known as “Shoko” or Gints Konošonoks.
Participants can choose from distances of varying lengths and difficulty levels, ranging from short and more accessible routes to longer and more challenging ones, suitable even for the most skilled runners. Rimants Liepiņš, the main organizer of the event, explains that the goal of this event, as always, is to ensure that everyone, regardless of age or experience level, can find a distance that suits their abilities and desires. He reminds participants that the most formidable “Lynx” once started with the “Squirrel” distance – some choose to increase their pace, others their distance, some both, while others enjoy nature leisurely.
As usual, the event starts with the ENEFIT hiking distance, which is suitable for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings leisurely. At 11:00, the youngest participants, the “GARDU MUTI Dormice,” will start, followed by the longer “GARMIN Lynx” and “VENDEN Roe deer” distances. 12:00, the 6km “Squirrel” distance participants will hit the trail, followed by the “KARTE VESELĪBA Hare” runners. The event schedule concludes with the LATVIAN STATE FORESTS school championship race at 14:00. The day wraps up around 17:00 with an awards ceremony, followed by the traditional instant lottery for attendees.
The Sveikuļi Forest stage was inspired by the childhood memories of Ivars Liepiņš, the executive director of the Tukums regional council, wandering in the enchanting forest massif of the Sēme area. It is also thanks to the Tukums Enduro motorcyclists, who encourage participants to enjoy the winding Enduro trails. The routes will also traverse the winter cross-country skiing trails of the ‘Sveikuļi’ recreation complex, passing through the dendrological park ‘Vāgneris’ and Jumprava Lake to finish at the epic Sveikuļkalns!
The “Stirnu buks” trail running and hiking series is suitable for anyone looking to actively spend time outdoors and embark on a seven-stage tour around Latvia, regardless of experience – whether a beginner, an experienced runner or simply looking for an opportunity to spend a day in the fresh air. Families are also warmly invited to participate, as the available distances and difficulty levels ensure a suitable adventure for every participant.
Registration for the Sveikuļi Forest “Stirnu buks” is open on the stirnubuks.lv website until 12:00 on September 12th.
Press release prepared: September 4, 2024
SIA “PLATFORMA.LV”
Elīna Putene
info@stirnubuks.lv
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