Moroccan Trail Runner Triumphs in Dolomyths Run, Overcoming Visa Hurdles

Elhousine Elazzaoui grew up in Zagora, in the Moroccan Sahara, more than six hours’ drive from Marrakech. The champion fought to obtain a visa to participate in his first mountain race in Switzerland in 2017. He finished second and since then has not stopped traveling to participate in other competitions, despite the visa difficulties.

After his victory in the Dolomyths Run, a demanding 22-kilometer and 1,800-meter race, the 31-year-old Moroccan athlete received congratulations from Spaniard Kilian Jornet, a specialist in ski mountaineering, mountaineering, ultra-trail and mountain running. "He has done a lot to develop trail running. Today we have great events like the World Cups, the Golden Series or the UTMB thanks to him and other athletes," he told El País.

Elhousine Elazzaoui wants to compete against the best. "I have to run against world champions," he said. Winning this race was a challenge for him. "It was now or never. I was very confident, it was my last chance," added Elhoussine, who won a race in Italy and wants to go to Sierre-Zinal in August.

With these victories, the Moroccan is able to live decently and grow the family business. "I don’t want money for a big house, just to live," said the young man who never thought of becoming an athlete. His first running shoes were given to him by a European tourist.