2025 Transvulcania Women’s Preview: Elite Runners to Watch on La Palma’s Volcanic Trails- The 2025 Transvulcania Ultramarathon returns on Saturday, May 10, bringing with it some of the world’s most elite trail runners for a showdown on the stunning volcanic island of La Palma, Spain. Known for its relentless elevation and dramatic terrain, the 73-kilometer race features 4,350 meters of vertical gain, offering both a physical and scenic challenge. This year’s women’s field is stacked with world-class talent, making it one of the most anticipated contests in the international trail running calendar.

Race Background

Since its debut in 2009, Transvulcania has earned its reputation as a must-run event for trail athletes. After briefly joining the UTMB World Series in 2022–2023, the race returned to its independent roots in 2024 without sacrificing prestige or participation. In fact, the 2025 edition is fully booked, with thousands of runners eager to take on the rugged beauty of La Palma’s volcanic landscape.

Top Contenders for the Podium

Ruth Croft (New Zealand)

The defending champion and course record holder, Croft returns after her 8:02:49 victory in 2024. With major wins including Tarawera 100k, OCC, and Ultra-Trail Cape Town, Croft is among the sport’s most consistent elites. Her experience on the Transvulcania course makes her a strong favorite for a repeat win.

Blandine L’Hirondel (France)

A two-time Trail World Champion, L’Hirondel excels over mid-to-long distances. With top finishes at CCC, OCC, and UTMB, she has both the endurance and speed to challenge for the win on La Palma’s technical terrain.

Martina Valmassoi (Italy)

The 2023 Transvulcania winner and 2024 Madeira Island Ultra-Trail 115k champion thrives on vertical courses. With a background in skyrunning, Valmassoi is well-suited for the island’s sharp ascents and descents.

Athletes to Watch

• Anne-Lise Rousset Séguret (France): Three-time runner-up at Transvulcania, looking to finally clinch the top spot.

• Ekaterina Mityaeva (Neutral): A consistent top-5 performer at Transvulcania, Mityaeva enters with momentum following multiple podiums in 2024.

• Fiona Pascall (UK): Fresh off a win at Ultra Trail Chianti 120k, Pascall makes her Transvulcania debut with eyes on the lead pack.

• Jessica Tipán Gutierrez (Ecuador): With a podium finish at the 2022 Transvulcania and recent strong marathon form, she’s a dark horse for a top finish.

Other Notable Entrants

• Azara García (Spain): Known for her speed and past wins at Transgrancanaria.

• Elisa Desco (Italy): A former winner (2014) and a seasoned marathon-distance trail runner.

• Giulia Marchesoni (Italy): Reigning Skyrunning Ultra World Champion, making her debut over this distance.

• Kristin Berglund (Austria): Former Transvulcania podium finisher and UTMB runner-up, returning after a break from racing.

• Geneviève Asselin-Demers (Canada): Multiple podiums in 2024 and strong early 2025 performances suggest top-10 potential.

Course and Conditions

Transvulcania begins at Faro de Fuencaliente and climbs to the island’s highest point, Roque de los Muchachos (2,421m), before a sharp descent into Los Llanos de Aridane. The course is known for its mix of volcanic ash, pine forest trails, and technical ridgelines, demanding both fitness and finesse.

What to Expect in 2025

With the course record (8:02:49) within reach and a deep elite field, the women’s race is likely to see tight competition from start to finish. The combination of experienced champions, rising stars, and unpredictable trail conditions sets the stage for a thrilling race day.

Conclusion

The 2025 Transvulcania Women’s Ultramarathon promises to be a highlight of the trail running season. Whether you’re tracking Ruth Croft’s defense, hoping for a breakout from Fiona Pascall, or watching for dark horses like Marchesoni and Tipán Gutierrez, this year’s race is not to be missed.

Stay tuned to Fitness Nala for updates, results, and post-race analysis!