The second edition of the “La Bon'Ax” alpine ski race is being actively prepared, while the Ax-3-Domaines resort is preparing to open registrations. Launched last year by Jacques Gales, former piste manager, this competition has already established itself as an unmissable event for ski touring enthusiasts.
“With the free-rando area created a few years ago – including a snowshoe course and two ski touring routes along the slope – we wanted to organize an event to highlight this site. This is how La Bon’Ax was born,” explains Jacques Gales. “This year, we hope to welcome around fifty participants,” he adds.
Registrations now open
The Bon'Ax will therefore return for a second edition on Saturday, February 1, on the Bonascre plateau. Two tests will be offered:
- An individual “discovery” event of 3.6 km with 353 meters of altitude difference, alternating uphill and downhill.
- A “classic” individual course of 7.2 km with 706 meters of elevation gain, including two climbs and two descents.
“We ask participants to be equipped with a headlamp, because the race will take place at night, with a start set for 6:45 p.m. They must also have a backpack containing a survival blanket, warm clothing and water,” explains Jacques Gales.
The route will be marked with skinning and skinning areas marked with tape, particularly in Manseille. There will be no refreshments on this portion, and poles on the ground will mark the transition zones. Depending on snow conditions, adjustments may be made, and these modifications will be communicated to competitors before departure, when bibs are handed out.
At the end of the race, a prize giving ceremony will take place in the Salle des Petits Montagnards, followed by a buffet dinner offered to participants.
To register, go to the website: https://www.ax.ski
Also read: Ariège. “It’s an incredible site that makes you want to come back”: success for the 1st trail on the Beille plateau
