The aim of the organizers in the Bettmeralp Bergbahnen area is to establish a second, permanent long-distance fixture alongside the classic marathon "Grand Raid Cristalp" in Lower Valais. The potential for this is there: On the one hand, the Upper Valais has very few bike events, while on the other, the beauty of the region could lead to a similar attraction as the National Park Bike Marathon in the Lower Engadine.

At 91 kilometers, the long route seems relatively short for a traditional marathon at first glance. However, with its 4800 meters of altitude difference, the Upper Valais riders are in the toughest league and experts can guess: this route not only requires stamina but also a lot of strength for the steep sections. The shorter route measures 74 kilometers and 3600 vertical meters ? the tough routes seem to be close to the hearts of the Valaisans...

Date: July 10, 2005
Route: 91 kilometers / 4800 vertical meters or 74 kilometers / 3600 vertical meters
Organizer: Bettmeralp Bahnen AG, 3992 Bettmeralp, contact person: Anton König, info@aletsch-bikemarathon.ch
Registration: Entry fee CHF 80. Until June 30, 2005 with payment slip, CHF 80.? After this date, registration will take place directly on site with a surcharge of CHF 10.?.
Start: Betten valley station, 7.00 a.m. long route, 8.00 a.m. short route
Finish: Bettmeralp, Bachtla sports center 07:00
Info: www.aletsch-bikemarathon.ch