Will you be Running Up For Air?

running vert in Chamonix
Are you keen to join the Running Up For Air event? (Image credit: Olly Bowman)

Running Up For Air, which first launched in Utah, is calling for athletes to run for three, six, 12 or 24 hours in one day.

Runners can take part wherever they want in Europe and solo or as part of a team and they should run hills where possible.

Patagonia is hosting  24 Hours of RUFA across Europe on July 31, 2021.

Participants will run to raise awareness of air pollution and the event will connect runners from across the continent to raise funds for environmental groups fighting for clean air.  

RUFA runner

Find your vert (Image credit: Phil Young)

The RUFA campaign for better air 

The environmental aim of the event is to raise awareness of poor air quality. Running Up For Air reports: “We are all breathing in toxic air. It damages our health and the environment around us. As trail runners we feel this and for communities living in busy cities, exposure to air pollution is a critical issue. 

 “So whether you are logging your vert on alpine trails, or lapping the hill in your local park, every vertical metre counts. 

"Go for a full 24-hour grind or a relaxed three hours…it will be an uplifting day experienced your way.” 

Running Up For Air was founded to raise money in support of the fight for improved air quality for those who live along the Wasatch Front, Utah. The first European edition took place in Chamonix, France, in May 2019. 

There is a €20 fee to take part, which goes directly to18 environmental groups fighting for clean air.  Each person can choose to take part wherever they run vert, between 6AM CEST, July 31 and 6AM CEST, August 1.

Fiona Russell
Outdoor writer

Fiona Russell is a widely published adventure journalist and blogger, better known as Fiona Outdoors. She is based in Scotland and is an all-round outdoors enthusiast with favorite activities including trail running, mountain walking, mountain biking, road cycling, triathlon and skiing (both downhill and backcountry). Aside from her own adventures, Fiona's biggest aim is to inspire others to enjoy getting outside and exploring, especially through her writing. She is also rarely seen without a running skort! Find out more at Fiona Outdoors.