Artzainen Lasterkaldia - la Course des Bergers

The Artzainen Lasterkaldia – Course des Bergers (Shepherds' Race) takes place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, starting from the Place de la Mairie in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Basque Country, France. This trail running event features a 23.6km course (1,350m D+) and a 15km course (940m D+) through stunning Basque mountain landscapes, with the high point at the summit of Oilarandoi (936m). A 15km hike is also offered. Proceeds support the Sokorritzaileak association, which provides mountain first aid training and accessibility equipment (Joëlette) for people with disabilities.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• Registration opens January 8, 2026. 1€ per registration (courses and hike) donated to Sokorritzaileak association.
• Raffle (2€ per ticket) – prizes include a Suunto Race S Black watch, a Smartbox (2-day countryside getaway with gourmet dinner), a Goicoechea pottery vase, and an Artzain surprise gift bag. Drawing on Sunday, June 7, 2026.
• Collector t-shirt (limited edition) – pre-order from January 8 to April 15, 2026. Pick up on race day at the boutique stand. Open to everyone, not just runners.
• PPS (Health Passport) – required for non-licensed participants. New FFA rules effective January 15, 2026. Existing PPS valid for 3 months.
• Bib pickup: Saturday (day before) and Sunday morning (times TBC – check event website).
• Location: Place de la Mairie, Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry (64430), Basque Country, France.
• Organizer: Artzainen Lasterkaldia Association – 06 08 41 54 93 – contact form on website.
• Partners: Goxoki Coiffure, Zurgintza, Hôtel Restaurant Arcé, Istara, ALLIANZ, Intermarché Baigorri, Agridis 64, Galeries Garazi, Garage Semerena, Maison Petricorena, Poterie Goicoechea, Café de la Paix, and many local Basque businesses.

Route and Atmosphere:

• 23.6km Trail: Start from Place de la Mairie, ascend to Oilarandoi summit (936m), descent to Col d'Aharza (734m) and Wakita, climb through Jastseleku Erreka and Urdiakozahala, then fast rolling descent on a mountain trail through ferns.
• 15km Trail (O.G.B.): Perfect for discovering mountain running. Summit of Oilarandoi (930m) followed by a long descent toward Baigorri.
• 15km Hike: Non-competitive walking with an aid station at Col d'Aharza. Approximately 940m elevation gain.
• Scenic Setting: Basque Country mountains, forest paths, fern-covered hillsides, and panoramic views from Oilarandoi summit.
• Charitable Mission: Support Sokorritzaileak – training people in mountain first aid, offering courses for people with disabilities, expanding Joëlette outings, and purchasing accessibility equipment.
• Atmosphere: A community-driven, passionate event celebrating Basque mountain culture, shepherds' heritage, and solidarity.
• Spectator Experience: Friends and family can cheer at the start/finish in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, at Col d'Aharza (aid station), or along the beautiful Basque mountain trails.

The Artzainen Lasterkaldia 2026 – Shepherds' Race on June 7 in Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, Basque Country – features a demanding 23.6km trail, a 15km trail, and a 15km hike through the stunning Pyrenean foothills. Proceeds support Sokorritzaileak mountain first aid and accessibility programs.