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Belgian XC Marathon Championship
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THE ULTIMATE
BIKE RACE
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Did you know ?
 

RAID DES HAUTES FAGNES: 25 YEARS OF PASSION AND PERFORMANCE IN THE HEART OF NATURE

Since its beginning inception in 2000, the Raid Des Hautes-Fagnes has established itself as a must-attend event for mountain bike enthusiasts in Belgium. Organized by a dedicated and experienced team, previously involved in the East Belgium Bikers Trophy (EBBT), the event has grown impressively—from just 75 participants in its first edition to around 1,300 every year today. In 2025, the race will celebrate its 25th edition and, for the third time, will host the Belgian MTB Marathon Championship as it was the case in 2018 and 2019.

In its first year, the Raid Des Hautes-Fagnes offered a single 75 km route. Riders started from the Malmedy sports hall and followed a path heading west of the town, showcasing the region’s stunning wooded and hilly landscapes. Today, the event features three routes—65 km, 90 km, and 115 km— allowing participants to select a challenge that matches their abilities. For the first three years, the starts were held at the Malmedy sports hall. Today, the start moved to the center of Malmedy, with redesigned routes heading north. These new routes are exploring the untouched corners of the Hautes-Fagnes.


THE RAID DES HAUTES FAGNES: Adapting to Succeed



The success of the Raid Des Hautes-Fagnes is built on several factors: Impeccable organization, varied and technical terrain that challenges riders, and a welcoming atmosphere that brings together both enthusiasts and professionals. Thanks to the accumulated experience and the unwavering enthusiasm of the organizing team, the event continues to attract and bring together participants

The 25th anniversary of the RAID in 2025 promises to be a memorable edition, celebrating a quarter-century of athletic challenge and love for the Ardennes’ natural beauty.



An eVENT KNOWN FOR ITS TECHNICAL AND PHYSICAL CHALLENGE

 
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LOGISTICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES…

Organizing the RAID within a nature reserve presents a series of logistical challenges. The Hautes Fagnes, as a protected region, requires special permissions and a strong commitment to minimizing the event's environmental impact. This includes raising awareness among cyclists about the importance of respecting the environment.

In addition to environmental management, safety is a top priority for the organizers. The courses are monitored by rescue teams, and refreshment stations are strategically located to give participants the opportunity to rest and hydrate, considering the challenging distances and elevation gains.

- SOME FIGURES -

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+ 25
25th Edition, one of the oldest MTB marathons in Belgium.
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+ 3000
Elevation gain: 3,000 m, 2,550 m, and 1,900 m.
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+ 1300
1300 participants across the three distances
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+ 3
3 timed distances: 65 km, 90 km, and 115 km.
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A MUST-ATTEND EVENT FOR ENTHUSIASTS

Over the years, the Raid des Hautes Fagnes has become more than just a race: it’s a personal challenge for many participants, a moment to push one’s limits, and a gathering for the mountain biking community. Finishing the Raid des Hautes Fagnes often leaves participants with a deep sense of pride, having conquered a technical and physical challenge in an extraordinary natural setting.


The RDHF offers:
  • Over 20 years of history with an organization run by passionate volunteers.
  • A varied and technical course that crowns only the greatest champions.
  • A demanding finale and a course featuring legendary climbs and sections of the RDHF with even more elevation gain.
  • A unique route through Belgium’s largest nature reserve.
  • A human adventure requiring each participant to push their limits to reach the finish line.
  • A challenging trail in the heart of nature, with 95% on forest paths.
  • A journey of discovery through the treasures of the stunning Malmedy region, including famous tourist landmarks.
  • Generous and varied refreshment points for all distances.
  • A gift for the first 1,000 registrants.
  • All three distances count towards the Belgian Ardennes Marathon Series (BAMS) challenge.


Did you know ?
United by the Race, Standing Together!

Every year, a portion of the proceeds from our race is donated to local organizations in our region, thanks to your support and dedication. Together, we contribute to the well-being of our community. Thank you for your generosity and see you in the next edition!

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