With over 1500 registered runners and top-level performances during this 2025 edition, the Ultra Grand Ballon has more than ever established itself as a must-attend trail running event in the Vosges.
This year, 5 distances were offered. The first participants lined up for the 80km (3800m D+) started at 5 a.m., guided by the light of their headlamps. After a 9-hour and 20-minute effort on a demanding and technical course, it was French runner Lois Da Col (UTMB Index – 723) who took the win. He was followed by fellow Frenchman David Werner. Belgian Edouard Pecher completed the podium with an impressive time of 10 hours and 12 minutes. Among the women, it was French runner Aline Grienenberger (UTMB Index – 495) who won the race in 12h08.
XXL PERFORMANCE BY MÉLISSA SANCHEZ on the 42km
The other highly anticipated race of the day was the 42 km. The big favorite, Romain Stéphanus (UTMB Index – 783), left no chance for his competitors. Quickly breaking away in the lead, the previous year’s winner claimed victory again in Markstein in 3 hours and 39 minutes. Behind him, an impressive Mélissa Sanchez (UTMB Index – 638) secured 2nd place overall in 4 hours and 10 minutes during her first participation at this distance. Hats off!
To see all other results and rankings, click HERE
Renamed this year after five editions under the name “Marathon du Grand Ballon”, the Ultra Grand Ballon 2025 has reached a new milestone and successfully transitioned. Nearly 15 nationalities were represented at the starting line of this increasingly recognized and popular race.
The event also has a solidarity and charity goal. Once again this year, thanks to your support, €8,000 was raised for the association “Les Amis de Luisa.” You may have met the volunteers at the aid stations.
SEE YOU ON APRIL 25-26 AND JULY 11, 2026
If the Grand Ballon adventure appeals to you, the dates for the next editions are already known: April 25–26 for the Trail du Grand Ballon and July 11 for the Ultra Grand Ballon.
This year, both events were fully booked in less than two months. More than 5,000 trail runners had the chance to race through the magnificent Vosges landscapes. Don’t miss your chance in 2026! The first challenge will be getting a bib number. So mark these dates in your calendar for the registration opening:
- October 15 – Trail du Grand Ballon
- January 18 – Ultra Grand Ballon
