The Trail Fuentealta Vilaflor celebrated its tenth edition in 2025 with resounding success, establishing itself as one of the most anticipated trail running events in the Canary Islands. This event not only challenges runners with its demanding course through Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes but also offers a unique opportunity to capture the passion and effort of athletes through photography. As the official event photographer, I have been fortunate to document the essence of trail running in its purest form, from the intensity of the start to the emotion of the finish line.
Vilaflor de Chasna, el municipio más alto de España, ofrece un escenario espectacular para el Trail Fuentealta. Con un entorno dominado por frondosos bosques de pinos canarios, senderos de tierra volcánica y desniveles desafiantes, cada instantánea tomada durante el evento refleja la magnitud del reto al que se enfrentan los corredores. Desde el amanecer hasta el atardecer, la luz natural juega un papel crucial en la captura de imágenes impactantes, realzando los contrastes entre el cielo, las montañas y el esfuerzo de los participantes.
This year, the event featured several race formats tailored to different experience levels and preparation:
- Vertical Race (6 km, +620 m D+): A high-intensity uphill challenge reaching 2,100 meters of altitude.
- Master Trail (30 km, +1,700 m D+): The crown jewel of the event, covering the most iconic landscapes of Vilaflor.
- Media Trail (21 km, +1,100 m D+): An intermediate challenge offering spectacular views and technical sections.
- Start Trail (12 km, +600 m D+): Ideal for runners looking to experience trail running without facing extreme distances.
- Inicial Trail & Nordic Walk (6.5 km): Options for those who seek a more accessible experience while enjoying nature.
- Kids' Race: Designed for young runners, fostering a love for sports from an early age.
Each of these races represents a unique opportunity for sports photography, capturing both the strategy and determination of experienced runners and the excitement of those making their debut in the world of trail running.
One of the most intense moments to capture is the start of each race. The concentration on the athletes’ faces, the tension in the air, and the countdown before the starting gun create an electrifying atmosphere. At the finish line, emotions erupt—expressions of victory, relief, exhaustion, and pure happiness mark the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day. As a photographer, capturing these moments is essential to conveying the magnitude of the experience.
Photography at Trail Fuentealta Vilaflor not only documents the event but also allows participants to relive their most intense moments. Each image tells a story of personal achievement, effort, and connection with nature. Additionally, the visual content generated plays a key role in promoting future editions, attracting new runners, and strengthening the event’s prestige.
The Trail Fuentealta Vilaflor is much more than a competition; it is a celebration of sports, nature, and the passion for trail running. As a photographer, witnessing every stride, every smile, and every moment of struggle is a privilege. Through my lens, I have aimed to capture the essence of this unique event, preserving not just images but also the story of every runner. Without a doubt, the tenth edition of Trail Fuentealta Vilaflor has been an absolute success and a visual delight for any sports and photography enthusiast.
