PHOTO: Embraced by the Halo Hills, the Haloze Trail thrilled nearly 500 runners

In the heart of Halozje, nearly 500 runners took part in the second edition of the Haloze Trail, a trail running event held in the Športni Park Majšperk on Sunday. The race attracted participants from all over Slovenia, as well as Austria and Croatia, marking a notable increase in attendance compared to last year’s inaugural run. The event, which has quickly gained popularity, continues to draw attention with its unique blend of sport, nature and community spirit. The race featured three distinct routes, 5, 16 and 27 kilometers, offering options for different levels of experience. This year, organizers introduced a new five-kilometer route designed specifically for families, older participants and newcomers to trail running. Additionally, official timing was implemented for all races, while longer courses were slightly extended to enhance the challenge. Municipal mayor Sašo Kodrič expressed satisfaction with the growing success of the event. “We can now include Haloze Trail among the highlights of our town's celebrations,” he said, noting the impressive number of participants. He also highlighted the positive response from visitors coming from various parts of Slovenia and even abroad. Before the race began, the mayor himself joined the runners, opting for the 28-kilometer course. “Today I feel more like a participant than a mayor,” he remarked, expressing his enthusiasm for trail running. Runners were guided through wooded areas, vineyards and numerous inclines, with the effort rewarded by panoramic views of the characteristic landscape around Halozje. One of the main attractions of the event is the combination of physical challenge and immersive natural experiences. As one participant noted, the phrase “in the volume of Halozje hills” aptly captures the overall experience. The Haloze Trail is not merely a competition, it offers participants a chance to discover the region in a different way, exploring forests, vineyards, climbs and vistas. Organizer Nejc expressed particular pride in the enthusiastic response from participants. “They have come from all over Slovenia, as well as Austria and Croatia,” he said, emphasizing how the event has successfully drawn in people who might not have heard of Halozje before. He believes the event provides a great opportunity for visitors to see the beautiful landscapes of the area. After finishing the race, the afternoon turned into a relaxed gathering, with the energy and goodwill of the runners enhancing the sporting challenge and creating an event that connects movement, nature and genuine hospitality from Halozje. The Haloze Trail is gradually becoming a regular attraction along the paths of Halozje, drawing an increasing number of visitors each year. If this trend continues, the volume of Halozje hills will likely be even more filled with runners in the coming years.