Prishtina Trails: Rules and Regulations

Prishtina Trails Rules and Regulations (18+)

Introduction

The rules and regulations for Prishtina Trails exist to ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for all participants. Trail and ultra-running are physically demanding sports that require careful preparation, environmental awareness, and adherence to safety protocols. These guidelines help runners understand what is expected of them, how to prepare, and how to navigate potential challenges. By following these rules, participants contribute to a well-organized event that prioritizes runner safety, environmental conservation, and the spirit of trail running.

1. Organizers

1.1. Prishtina Trails is organized by Klubi Atletik X Trailers, a non-profit NGO registered and based in Prishtina, Kosova, on Agim Ramadani 222 street, Apt 60, in collaboration with local and international partners.

1.2. The organizers are responsible for setting race routes, providing necessary safety measures, and ensuring an enjoyable race experience.

2. General Information

2.1. Prishtina Trails is an annual trail-running event designed to challenge athletes while showcasing the natural beauty of the Prishtina region, especially Germia Park. The event includes three (3) race categories, each with different distances and elevation gains.

2.2. The race takes place in a single stage and under semi-autonomous conditions, with runners subject to time limits.

2.3. The race consists of three categories: Base 10km, Half 23km, and Ultra 48km. Each race presents its own set of challenges, including elevation gain, technical terrain, and potential weather variations.

10km BASE

This course is perfect for beginners and those looking for a fast yet scenic trail run. It features a mix of compact dirt trails and moderate ascents, offering a taste of trail running without extreme technical challenges. Ideal for road runners transitioning to trails or anyone seeking an enjoyable off-road experience.

23km HALF

Designed for experienced trail runners and those ready to push their limits, this route combines rolling terrain with technical sections, including rocky paths and steeper ascents. With a mix of forested trails and stunning viewpoints overlooking Prishtina, it offers a thrilling challenge for those looking to test their endurance.

48km ULTRA

This demanding ultra-distance race is for seasoned trail runners seeking a true mountain challenge. Featuring steep climbs, technical descents, and ever-changing terrain, it requires solid endurance, strength, and navigation skills. With an elevation gain that tests even the most experienced runners, this race is suited for those prepared for long hours on the trail and varying weather conditions.

2.4. Participants must be familiar with and respect mountain running regulations, including self-sufficiency requirements, along with any park regulations.

2.5. The event welcomes elite and amateur runners, or simply nature lovers or wellness enthusiasts, promoting a strong sense of community within the sport.

3. Participation requirements

3.1. Participants must be at least 18 years old (except for junior categories, if applicable).

3.2. All runners must be physically prepared for the demands of their chosen race category.

3.3. Registration is personal and non-transferable.

3.4. Participants must sign a liability waiver before race day.

3.5. Previous experience in trail or endurance running is recommended for the ultra-distance category.

3.6. Runners should familiarize themselves with the race course, expected weather conditions, and required equipment before participating.

4. Registration and fees

4.1. Registration must be completed through the official event website within the designated deadlines.

4.2. Entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

4.3. Participants may be required to provide a valid medical certificate if necessary.

4.4. Registration includes race entry, race bib, access to aid stations, medical assistance, post-run meal, sponsored gifts and finisher’s medals for those completing their race category.

4.5. The organizers reserve the right to provide special invitations (free of charge registrations) to a selected group or individuals that fulfill the criteria of promoting the race to a wider audience or for any other reason they deem necessary.

4.6. Late registration is not available, under no circumstances whatsoever.

5. Race rules

5.1. The race follows a marked trail; deviations from the marked route are strictly prohibited.

5.2. Participants must carry mandatory equipment as specified by the organizers.

5.3. Aid stations will be available along the course, but runners should be prepared for self-sufficiency in certain segments.

5.4. Checkpoints with time limits will be in place; runners failing to meet the cutoffs will be removed from the race. The 10km Base has a 4 hour time-limit; the 23km Half has a 6 hour time-limit and the 48km Ultra has a 12 hour time-limit.

5.5. External assistance is only permitted at designated aid stations.

5.6. Pacers are not allowed unless explicitly permitted for specific race categories.

5.7. Runners must adhere to safety guidelines, including wearing proper footwear and gear for mountain and trail running.

5.8. The use of trekking poles is permitted but must not interfere with other runners.

5.9. Participants must respect all volunteers and race officials and follow their instructions. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.

6. Environmental responsibility

6.1. Participants must respect nature and refrain from littering on the course or damaging the environment. Any runner caught littering or damaging the environment may face penalties, including disqualification.

6.2. The use of disposable plastics is discouraged; runners should carry reusable cups or bottles. No plastic cups are served.

6.3. Participants must stay on marked trails to avoid damage to local flora and fauna.

6.4. Any interaction with wildlife should be minimized to prevent disturbance.

7. Safety and medical assistance

7.1. Medical teams will be stationed at strategic locations along the course.

7.2. Participants experiencing injury or exhaustion must notify race officials immediately.

7.3. Organizers reserve the right to stop any participant if their physical condition is deemed unsafe for continuation.

7.4. Emergency contact numbers will be provided on race bibs for immediate assistance.

7.5. Weather conditions may require race modifications or cancellations for safety reasons.

7.6. Runners must be self-sufficient and prepared to manage minor injuries or environmental hazards.

8. Disqualification and penalties

8.1. Participants may be disqualified for:

• Deviating from the marked course.
• Receiving unauthorized external assistance.
• Failing mandatory gear checks.
• Engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior or disrespecting officials and fellow runners.
• Littering or violating environmental regulations.
• Ignoring safety instructions from race officials.

8.2. Time penalties may apply for minor infractions at the discretion of race officials.

9. Rights and responsibilities

9.1. Organizers are not liable for injuries, accidents, or lost personal belongings.

9.2. Participants acknowledge the inherent risks of trail running and assume full responsibility for their safety.

9.3. Runners must follow all safety protocols and instructions issued by race officials.

9.4. Participants must conduct themselves with sportsmanship and courtesy towards others.

10. Image rights

10.1. By registering, participants grant permission for their images and videos taken during the event to be used by the organizers for promotional purposes without compensation.

11. Declaration of physical fitness and disclaimer

11.1. By registering for Prishtina Trails, the participant acknowledges that they have read and accepted the rules and regulations of the event.

11.2. The participant confirms that they are in good health, free from any medical conditions that would prevent them from participating safely.

11.3. Participants understand the risks associated with trail and ultra-distance running, including but not limited to injury, extreme weather conditions, and exhaustion.

11.4. The participant assumes full responsibility for their participation, releases the organizers from any liability, and waives any right to claim damages in the event of injury, loss, or other unforeseen circumstances.

11.5. Participants must follow the race director’s and medical team’s instructions at all times.

11.6. If a participant is deemed unfit to continue the race, they must comply with the decision of the event’s medical personnel.

11.7. By registering for Prishtina Trails, participants acknowledge and agree to comply with these rules and regulations.

12. Final provisions

12.1. The race organizers reserve the right to modify rules and event details if necessary.

12.2. Any disputes or unforeseen circumstances will be resolved at the discretion of the race officials.

Kids Rules

Acceptance of liability declaration

I, the parent/legal guardian of the child participating in the race, declare that I have read and understood all the Rules, and I understand and accept all possible risks arising from my child’s participation in the race. In the event of any risk or eventual harm to my child resulting from failure to follow the Organizer’s instructions and advice, or from failure to meet the participation conditions, I will not seek compensation from the Organizer.

By participating in the event, the parent or legal guardian agrees that photographs of the child taken during the activity may be used by the organizer for promotional and informational purposes, but not for commercial purposes.

By registering my child in this race, I confirm that I have read and understood the rules and fully agree to them.

Participation rules

These rules are intended to:

• (a) Promote and preserve sportsmanship, equal opportunity, and fair play among all participating children.
• (b) Protect, as much as possible, the health, safety, and wellbeing of participants.
• (c) Serve as notice to the parents/legal guardians of participating children.

Exceptions and additions to the rules

The Organizers may make specific exceptions or additions to these Rules, with the sole aim of protecting the health, safety, and wellbeing of participants. Such changes or additions may be announced through verbal or written instructions to parents’ email addresses before the race, and through briefings on race day by volunteers and/or race organizers.

Statement of responsibility by parents/guardians

By registering your child in the race, you confirm that you are aware of the risks of an outdoor race and that you assume the risk personally, and that the Organizer bears no responsibility for compensating damage caused by failure to follow the Organizer’s instructions, to the maximum extent permitted by law. The Organizer will do its utmost to reduce and prevent risks; however, we kindly ask all participants to follow our instructions, advice, and recommendations.

Responsibilities and conduct of parents/guardians

• a) The parent/guardian is fully aware of the length and specifics of the race and informs the child of all necessary information, including sportsmanlike conduct toward fellow participants.
• b) Never leave your child alone during the event, except while running.
• c) There will be zero tolerance for any verbal or physical abuse toward another runner or participant. If a parent/guardian reprimands a child, whether their own or someone else’s, they will be required to leave.
• d) Parents/guardians are not allowed to run alongside their child at any point during the race. This may result in the risk of disqualification of any child who is assisted.
• e) If an injury occurs, allow staff and medics to carry out the proper procedures. Interference by parents/guardians may result in disqualification.
• f) Parents/guardians may not stand in the middle of the trail.
• g) Children must compete in the distance that corresponds to their age.
• h) If a parent/guardian is found to have lied about their child’s age, they will be immediately disqualified.
• i) Parents/guardians will treat staff and volunteers with respect. Any verbal or physical abuse toward them will result in possible disqualification of the athlete.
• j) By registering their child in the race, parents/guardians warrant that the child is in good health, based on recent training, physical examinations (if any), and generally accepted standards of good health, and that the child is capable of handling the challenges and difficulties an outdoor running race involves.

General conduct rules and penalties

• a) All competing athletes are expected to follow all rules set out in these regulations and to participate competitively.
• b) Any child who participates in the race without registering beforehand will not receive a medal or other accompanying gifts.
• c) Failure to comply with the rules set out in these regulations will result in disqualification from the event.
• d) Failure to start at the designated start time will result in disqualification from the event.