That's La Plagne
La Plagne 6000D Trail Running Event
July 27th to the 30th, 2023, La Plagne
Everything you need to know about the La Plagne 6000D trail running summer event
What to expect from the 6000D
The 6000D is in its 33rd year and is an amazing event, open for all abilities and ages to get involved.
Keep reading or click through the heading here to jump to the bits you need.
Join behind the scenes today and get the insider scoop
ABOUT
Exploring La Plagne in Summer and Embracing Trail Running
Welcome to La Plagne, a stunning French ski resort that transforms into a summer paradise for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. As a local living and working in this beautiful Alpine setting, I've had the pleasure of experiencing the thrill of the 6000D trail running competition. La Plagne is not only known for its winter sports; it also offers a plethora of activities during the summer months, with trail running being one of the most popular.
What to Expect at the 6000D: Embrace the Diverse Race Formats
The 6000D is an exhilarating trail running event that attracts participants from all over the world. It offers a variety of race formats to cater to different skill levels and preferences. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or a newcomer to the sport, you'll find a race that suits you perfectly. The race options include:
6000D: 69 km from the valley floor to the glacier peaks – and back again!
- 6000D Relay ( 3 people): The 6000D race route split out for 3 checkpoints of 21-26kms per person.
- 6000D Marathon: A classic marathon distance (42.2 kilometres) race through breathtaking trails, promising an unforgettable experience for all participants. An elevation change of 2363m!
- 6D Lacs: A 39 km trail race of 1500m elevation change. Starting and finishing in Bellecôte.
- 6 Découverte (Discovery): Ideal for beginners, this race covers 11 kilometres, with a 600m elevation change.
- 6D Bob: Race up the La Plagne Bobsleigh track! 1.5 km with 125m elevation but between an 8.2% to a 14% gradient!
- 6D Kids: Arranged by age group, from 6 to 15 years old. Distances start at 500m to 3000m in laps around Plagne Centre.
When is the 6000D? Mark Your Calendars
The 6000D trail running competition takes place every summer in July, usually towards the end of the month. For 2023, the first races are on Thursday 27th, through Sunday 30th.
The 6000D and all the different race formats provide the perfect opportunity to explore La Plagne in its full bloom.
Check out the 6000D program below to see when all the events are taking off!
Where Can We Watch the 6000D Events? Spectator's Delight
Cheering on the trail runners in the 6000D events is an exhilarating experience, and there are several vantage points to catch the action. Each of the races will be starting at different points around La Plagne, and of course, the starting line is a great spot to witness the excitement as the runners set off on their respective challenges.
Most of the races also finish in the same place they started, which is also, of course, a great place to watch the runners triumphantly complete their races and soak in the competitive spirit. And trust me, as someone who has run the 6000D decouvert race over the previous couple of years, those final cheers over the finish line mean everything!
There are also several points around each course where you can watch the races or cheer people on. Almost 90% of the races are on public footpaths, so you can find spots to find them. For the longer races, you can also position yourself at the racers' snack stops.
You'll also find Expo villages at most of the start/finish lines with product demos, 6000D merch and entertainment for all the family.
How Can You Get Involved in the 6000D? Be Part of the Action
Volunteer at the 6000D La Plagne
The 6000D trail running competition welcomes volunteers who are eager to contribute to the event's success. From assisting with race organisations to providing support along the routes, there are various ways to get involved and be part of this thrilling experience.
You can sign up to volunteer at the official 6000D volunteer site.
Run the 6000D La Plagne
If you're interested in participating as a runner, registration for the event can be done online through the official website. Registration opens early after the previous event and closes usually 48 hours before the coming event. It is often a little cheaper to enter early.
Do You Need to Register for the 6000D? Secure Your Spot
Yes, participants are required to register for the 6000D trail running competition in advance. Due to the event's popularity, spots can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to secure your place well in advance. The registration process is straightforward, and all the necessary information can be found on the official website.
For some of the larger races, you do also need a medical certificate to confirm you are fit for the race.
The pricing for entry to the 6000D events is as follows:
- 6 Decouvert: 23€
- 6D Kids: 3€
- 6D Bob: 5€
- 6D Lacs: 42€
- 6000D 80€
- 6D Marathon: 56€
- 6000D relay (3 people): 100€
Head to the 6000D registration site here to get booked!
Is the 6000D Family-Friendly? Fun for All Ages
Absolutely! The 6000D is a family-friendly event that encourages children and young athletes to participate in the excitement. The organisers host a special kids' race designed to introduce the little ones to the joy of trail running in a safe and supportive environment. It's an excellent opportunity for families to bond over their shared passion for outdoor activities.
The races are organised by age group and are run over loops around Plagne Centre.
- EA Eveil 1: 2016 to 2017 – 500 metres
- EA Eveil 2: 2012 to 2015 – 500 metres
- Poussins: 2012 – 2013 – 1000 metres
- Benjamins: 2010 – 2011 – 2000 metres
- Minimes: 2008 – 2009 – 3000 metres
Kids can also enter the 6D Bob, running 1.5km up the bobsleigh track, from the age of 8.
The La Plagne 6000D Event Program
6000D
Sunday 29th July, 5 am start/finish in Aime La Plagne (valley)
This is the main event for the professionals.
Join the ultimate challenge of the 6000D trail race in La Plagne! Covering 69km with a whopping 3400m elevation gain, this race will take you to the highest point at 3064m on the La Plagne Bellecôte Glacier. Depart at 5.00 am from Aime in the valley and finish around 6.30 pm, back in the valley with no strict time limit but several hourly barriers to conquer.
Limited to 2000 runners, secure your spot for 65€ – 80€, depending on the registration date.
Get ready for an epic adventure!
The 6000D Relay
Sunday 29th July, 5 am start/finish in Aime La Plagne (valley)
Gear up for the exhilarating 3-man relay in the 6000D trail race, covering a total of 69km with 3400m (D+) elevation gain. The journey begins at 677m, reaching the highest point at 3047m. Divided into three challenging sections, the race promises an unforgettable experience.
- 1st Section Aime / Plagne Centre: 21km – 1560m (D+) – 260m (D-)
- 2nd Section Plagne Centre / Plagne Bellecôte : 26.8km – 1690m (D+) – 1750m (D-)
- 3rd Section Plagne Bellecôte / Aime : 20.4km – 190m (D+) – 1430m (D-)
Starting at 5.00 am and finishing around 6.30 pm, you'll need to conquer time barriers along the way. Limited to 250 teams, secure your spot for 77€ – 100€, depending on the registration date. Be ready for an epic adventure with your team!
The 6D Marathon
Saturday, July 29th, 6 am in Aime 2000 start/finish
Not your usual marathon!
Join the 6D Marathon, a thrilling 43km race with a 2100m elevation gain. Starting and finishing at 677m, reach the highest point at 2361m.
Departure at 6.00 am, and no time limit, but keep an eye on the last hourly barrier in Montchavin at 1.30 pm. Limited to 1000 runners, secure your spot for 46€ – 56€, based on the registration date. Register online before July 23rd, 2023, Sunday, unless the runner limit is reached earlier. Don't forget your mandatory equipment, and get ready to conquer the mountains.
Bibs available at the Salle des Fêtes in Aime from Thursday until race morning.
6D Lacs
Friday, July 28th, 9 am in Plagne Bellecôte start/finish
Gear up for the 6D LACS race, happening on Friday, July 28, 2023, at 9:00 am. Get ready to conquer 30km with 1500m elevation gain, starting and finishing at 1924m, with the highest point at 2681m. No more time limits on arrival, but watch out for the Barrier Time at 1.15 pm at Plan Bois. Only 1000 runners will have the chance to participate, so secure your spot for 30€ to 42€, depending on your registration date. Don't forget your mandatory equipment: mobile phone, zipped bag for food at the feeding station, and 4 safety pins for your bib.
Sticks are allowed from the Dou du Praz, and there will be lockers available at the starting point in Bellecôte. Grab your bib and get set for an epic mountain adventure!
6 Decouvert (Discovery)
Thursday, July 26th 9.30 am Plagne Centre start/finish
Get ready for the 6 Découverte adventure! Covering 11km with 600m of elevation gain, start and finish at 1979m, reaching the highest point at 2151m. Lace-up your shoes and kick off at 9.30 am. No time limits, and barriers to watch out for. Limited to only 500 runners can participate.
Remember your mandatory gear: mobile phone, reusable cup or flask, zipped bag for food at the feeding station, and 4 safety pins for your bib. Pack water and food for the journey, and bring a reusable foldable tumbler to minimize waste at the stations.
Grab your bib at Plagne Center on Thursday, July 27, from 7:30 am, and don't forget your ID. Let the adventure begin!
JENS TOP TIP: This is the one that I have done several times – at varying leaves of fitness! This year I have entered but will be taking it easy after broken ribs this winter slowed down / stopped dead any fitness training I had in mind!
See you on the starting line?
6D Bob
Thursday, July 27th 4.30 pm start bottom of the bobsleigh track and finish at the top.
JENS TOP TIP: You can find out more about the La Plagne bobsleigh track here.
6D Kids
Thursday, July 27th at 1.30 pm start/finish Plagne Centre
Calling all young adventurers! Join the action at Plagne Centre, which is at altitude (1979m) for an exciting 500m or 3000m loop on a marked course with checkpoints.
Starting order by category/ age group, and it's only 3€ to register online but is limited to 400 kids.
Bibs will be given out at the starting point in Plagne Centre. Just don't forget your 4 safety pins for the bib.
Participants must have been born between 2008 and 2017. It's a non-timed animation without rankings and no need for a medical certificate.
And all participants get a medal on crossing the finish line!
6D Aventure
Friday 28th July, 4.30 pm start/finish Aime La Plagne (valley)
Don't miss the 6D Aventure, a thrilling family and kids' version of the “Giants” race.
Kids and teens (ages 6-16) can join with family or an accompanying adult for an exciting treasure hunt-style race in the town of Aime.
Solve hidden clues and explore the town's heritage while competing to find the coveted treasure!
Teams depart between 4.30 pm and 5.30 pm, and the prize distribution takes place at 6.00 pm in the scenic théâtre de Verdure in Aime.
That’s La Plagne and how to enjoy the Super 8 Event this summer
La Plagne's transformation from a winter wonderland to a summer haven is truly remarkable, and the 6000D trail running competition exemplifies the excitement and adventure that awaits visitors during this season.
Whether you're a trail running enthusiast or a family looking to share unforgettable moments, La Plagne and the 6000D event offer a perfect blend of nature, competition, and camaraderie.
So, lace up your running shoes, soak in the stunning Alpine beauty, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 6000D in La Plagne!
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