Join Big Bear's Ultra 2026
Embark on a trail-running adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Slovakia with the BBU races. Starting at the historic Budatín Castle, the BBU100+ and BBU RELAY races unfold amidst the undulating hills of Kysucká vrchovina, leading participants to the captivating peaks of Malá Fatra and the rugged beauty of Strážovské vrchy. The BBU60+ race commences under the majestic Strečno Castle, adding a touch of grandeur to the experience. The new BBU40 race starts at Turie and quickly introduces runners to the Súľov Rocks ridgeline. All races culminate at the Budatín Castle, weaving a trail through three other castles along the way. This diverse route promises an exhilarating journey, featuring runnable meadows, enchanting forest paths, challenging ascents and descents, technical rocky sections, a refreshing river crossing, and an adrenaline-pumping 15 km stretch of dynamic climbs and descents. The BBU race in Slovakia is a fusion of historical charm, natural beauty, and trail-running excitement.
Course details
118km/6300m/ITRA POINT 5
Our signature race that will take you on the full 118km long loop over the hills and mountains around the city of Žilina.
BBU 60+
62km/3500m/ITRA POINT 3
The shorter 62km long ultra – with start in Strečno and finish in Budatín. From Strečno BBU 60+ follows the same route as our signature race BBU 100+.
BBU 40
40km/2000m/ITRA POINT 2
For those who prefer something shorter than an ultra – 40km race with start in Turie and finish in Budatín. From Turie BBU40 follows the same route as our signature race BBU 100+.
Start address: Budatínsky hrad, Topoľová, Budatín, Žilina, Slovakia
Finish address: Budatínsky hrad, Topoľová, Budatín, Žilina, Slovakia
Route map
Register
Registration closes on 05 September (204 days left)
The current price step is valid until 31 March, 2026
135 EUR
-7%
125 EUR
Cannot be combined with other tickets
selected tickets
Total
You can, within 24 hours after your registration, get a full refund if you change your mind.
We accept
What’s included
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done Goodie bag
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done Timing chip (single use)
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done Photo Service
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done Post-race meal
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done Parking
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done Shuttle to Start Line
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done Drink Stations
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done Nutrition Stations
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done Medical Assistance
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done Bag drop
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done Toilets
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done Shower
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done Dressing rooms
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done Finisher gift
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
When and where can I collect my BIB/race pack?
Race check-in, bib and race pack collection will start from 4pm on Sep. 18, 2026 at the Budatín Castle venue. Details will be communicated prior to the race by email to all the participants.
Can someone collect my race pack for me?
No, race pack must be collected in person.
How do I get to the race location?
By car / by bus - Žilina is an important centre of Slovakia‘s transportation system. Žilina is at the intersection of major European roads and is connected with the capital city Bratislava by the D1 highway. By train - Žilina is a major rail hub with regular train services to / from Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, Vienna etc. By plane - The nearest airports are Vienna (many major airlines, about 3hrs drive), Bratislava (mainly budget airlines, 2 hours drive), Krakow, Ostrava.
Can I change the distance after I purchase a ticket?
Yes. In case of an upgrade to longer distance the registration fee difference at the time of the switch must be paid. In case of downgrade to a shorter distance the difference in registrations fee is not refundable.
What is the cancellation/refund policy for this event?
The paid registration fee is NOT REFUNDABLE unless the refund guarantee was paid during the registrations. All the details about cancellation, entry transfers etc are listed in the rules. In the event of race’s cancellation due to force of nature / emergency or due to government restrictions, the organizer guarantees to reimburse the entry fee in case of prohibition / inability to put together the event due to emergency / force of nature as follows: Cancellation 4 months before the start – 80% refund. Cancellation up to 2 months before the event – 70% refund Cancellation up to 1 month before the event – 50% refund Cancellation up to 14 days before the event – 30% refund Cancellation less than 14 days before the event – no refunds.
Is the route marked with event marking ?
Partially. Own event marking is not allowed within the boundaries of National park Malá Fatra. Organizer assumes that participants can navigate the mountain terrain following the GPS track, existing trail markings and route description. Volunteers may be placed at the critical junctions. Outside of National Park area the route will be marked with event marking. In the protected area of Strážovské vrchy the marking will be limited mainly to junctions and places where there is a potential for taking wrong turns.
Can I have my own support along the route (food, change of clothes etc.)?
No. This sort of support is not allowed to keep the race fair for everyone. Organizer provides refreshments at the designated check points and on the BBU100+ route there is also a drop bag option at Strečno CP.
Are poles allowed?
Yes. But if you decide to use the poles you have to carry them with you the whole time. It is not allowed to leave the poles in or pick them up from the drop bag or leave or pick them up anywhere along the race route.
Is it allowed to run with a dog (dogtrekking)?
No. Running with a dog is not allowed and will result in disqualification or the participant (DSQ).
What food should I take with me and how much ?
Take whatever you like, what you usually eat during your sport activities but at least you have to carry what is required in the mandatory gear. Each person has own preferences and should know his/her own needs.
Mandatory equipments?
Backpack, running belt or their combination sufficient to carry the complete mandatory gear during the entire event. Charged, turned on mobile phone (we recommend smartphone), participant must be reachable anytime before during and after the event. Own cup, bottles, headlamp with spare batteries, whistle, food, survival blanket, personal ID.
The race information has been found on the official website of the event or through publicly available sources. Always refer to the official website the latest race information. Please let us know if any data is wrong or missing, by emailing us.
