Asics SaintéLyon

The Asics SaintéLyon is a legendary winter night ultramarathon linking Saint-Étienne to Lyon, France. First held in 1952 as a rugged hike through the Monts du Lyonnais, it has evolved into one of Europe's most iconic trail races, combining history, endurance, and extreme conditions. The current main event is a 78 km night run across technical trails, forest paths, and rural roads—often under snow, freezing rain, or mud—making it as much a mental test as a physical one. With 7 race formats, including the grueling 156 km LyonSaintéLyon ultra, relay options, and shorter distances, the event attracts over 17,000 participants annually. The route, lit by thousands of headlamps in single file across the dark countryside, creates a uniquely haunting and beautiful atmosphere. Organized with high-level logistics and deep local involvement, SaintéLyon is now a year-end ritual for French and international trail runners alike.