The majestic Bachledova Valley was taken over by a forest pack. Not even the extreme heat could stop the runners
Taking a cable car to the start, mountains reaching into infinity, and a program full of novelties. The Behaj lesmi (Run Through the Woods) stop in Bachledova Valley brought everything this year, including extremely hot weather. The forest pack, however, did not give up! The determination of the runners overcame all obstacles and brought an absolute record attendance to the location – 1,171 runners.
Race Overview and Official Results
As is customary at Behaj lesmi events, the youngest participants opened the race day. 297 “forest cubs” came to show their courage, competing in six age categories on 100, 500, and 1,000-meter courses. The children showed tremendous heart, and with their unyielding energy and fighting spirit, they provided motivation and a great atmosphere for the runners on the other routes.
The main program continued with the start of the longest route. Exactly 200 daredevils set out on the demanding 20-kilometer course with a mountainous profile. In the men’s category, Michal Morvay triumphed decisively with an excellent time of 01:33:27. Among the women, Tatiana Rakytová smoothly claimed first place, crossing the finish line in 01:49:13.
Next up was the Lesnícka 10 (Forest 10), which was chosen by an impressive 315 competitors this time. The fastest man on this track was Dominik Bobalik with a time of 00:45:16. Andrea Palowska became the queen of the women’s category with a time of 00:58:49.
Following the Forest route was the UniCredit Bank 5 km Family Run, which attracted 323 participants. The winner among the men was Lukáš Gdovin with a time of 00:24:14. Among the women, an exceptionally fantastic performance was delivered by just eight-year-old Rozárie Horecká, who defeated the competition with a time of 00:31:29.
Special Sections on the Course
Runners in Bachledova Valley could also test their strength on special timed sections. The traditional speed premium CONTI SPEED SECTION from partner Continental measured 150 meters, and the fastest man and woman on both routes received a valuable tire voucher.
This year’s hot novelty of the series was not missing below the Tatras either. It was the JOJ ŠPORT FINISH SECTION – this 500-meter timed section just before the finish line thoroughly tested the remaining strength of all participants in the hot and demanding mountain terrain. The three fastest women and the three fastest men from each route will be announced on social networks and subsequently rewarded with a voucher.
Novelties
A grand premiere of this year’s edition in Bachledova Valley was the non-competitive activity UniCredit Bank Nordic Walking. This completely new format showed that the Behaj lesmi series is truly here for everyone. For the first time, 36 enthusiastic walkers joined in, enjoying the majestic mountain environment at their own pace.
A significant role was also played by the event partners, who contributed to the overall experience of the participants. The exceptional and family-friendly atmosphere was present not only on the track but also in the background facilities. Perfect refreshment for participants in the hot weather was provided by a refreshing mist gate from the Garnier brand.
The great experience was completed by the UniCredit Bank booth with a rich program for entire families. Children found here the Timeline of Moments of Courage – innovative digital kiosks with a graphically processed story of a local entrepreneur, through which they playfully learned about the milestones of his career. For participating in the activity at the kiosk, they received a token for the adjacent Smoothie bar. The same healthy reward was also given to children for creative drawing on the theme of what they would like to be when they grow up.
The logistics company DPD Slovakia also became a new supplier and partner of the series. Thanks to the extraordinary reliability of its couriers, all materials and media equipment of the event are always delivered on time and completely safely.
Run for Karolínka
By participating, the runners traditionally also contributed to charitable causes. At the Bachledova Valley location, the help was directed to three-year-old Karolínka, who has been bravely fighting three serious diagnoses since birth – childhood autism, epilepsy, and a congenital foot deformity known as clubfoot (pes equinovarus).
Even in the very first days of her life, the little warrior had to undergo foot casting, followed by several demanding surgeries and long periods of intensive rehabilitation. Karolínka is non-verbal, does not understand everyday communication, cannot manage basic self-care activities, and her overall development is significantly affected by the combination of these severe diagnoses. Her health condition requires constant, 24-hour specialized care. Her family is doing everything possible to provide her with accessible therapies – from rehabilitations and sensory therapies to educational aids.
Thanks to the contributions of the Behaj lesmi organizers and the competitors, a sum of 1,171 euros was successfully collected for little Karolínka’s family, which will help her in the fight for a better quality of life.
Acknowledgments
Special thanks go to the BACHLEDKA resort, the Treetop Walk, and the Prešov Self-Governing Region for their significant support and cooperation in realizing the event. We thank you for your help, favor, and for creating the conditions that contributed to its successful course.
The forest pack is next facing the wildest and most difficult stop of the entire series! They will have the opportunity to experience the Slovak wilderness in Veľká Fatra as early as July 18.
Convenient registration for the Behaj lesmi race in Veľká Fatra HERE!
Information about the other races in the series can be found on the Behaj Lesmi website!
Behaj Lesmi race series
Smolenice – 02.05.2026
Beckov – 16.05.2026
Bachledova dolina – 27.06.2026
Veľká Fatra – 18.07.2026
Čičmany – 22.08.2026
Topoľčianky (Night Race) – 12.09.2026
Devín – 26.09.2026
