Fairness, respect for others and the environment, mutual aid and solidarity are the fundamental principles that guide the organization and operation of the GTLC. These are directly inspired by the values put forward by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA) which include authenticity, respect, humility and fair play.
We want to share these principles with all those who take part in the GTLC, whatever the race: runners, partners, volunteers, spectators, local residents and not forgetting the organizers of other races. Aware that our events take place in a setting that is both grandiose and fragile, this charter aims to clearly formulate the benchmarks that will serve as a guideline for our behavior and actions.
Our sport, trail running, is currently undergoing major changes, the most perceptible of which are: a growing number of participants from an increasing number of different countries, a great diversity of motivations and profiles, increasingly sensitive economic stakes and the not inconsiderable emergence of environmental impact.
Against this backdrop of change, we see it as our responsibility to continue to promote the Trail through as many values as possible, values that go beyond the sporting aspect itself, making the Trail a genuine human adventure.
Equity
It's the search for a fair balance, based on impartiality, equal opportunities for the benefit of all runners, and recognition of the rights and duties of all those involved in the event (runners, volunteers, spectators, private and local partners, press and local population). Our races are organized to be advantageous to all, without some benefiting in a way that may disadvantage others.
Our races are open to everyone. Our rules are made for everyone and apply equally to everyone. All athletes have the same conditions, rights and duties. It is our responsibility to guarantee this principle of fairness, to carry out the necessary checks and to offer the best possible racing conditions to all participants.
We limit the areas where assistance is allowed so as not to penalize riders who cannot benefit from it, and we ask the race marshals to ensure that the rules are respected throughout the race.
The selection we are obliged to make at registration is based on criteria accessible to all.
We're constantly working on a quality organization, listening to everyone and always striving to find answers.
We limit the number of participants to avoid blockages along the route, which could affect the quality of the races.
Each participant undertakes to show respect and friendliness towards the local population.
Respect means sharing a set of rules that everyone involved (riders, volunteers, partners, journalists, support staff) undertakes to understand and respect.
We ask everyone not to cheat under any circumstances, and to be an example of fair play.
The GTLC brings together enthusiasts from a wide variety of cultures, personalities and motivations. Respecting others means understanding and accepting that they will be different, and adopting the "know-how" not to annoy or disturb them.
Respect for the environment
Our races take place in the valleys of the Belgian Ardennes. This is a fragile natural environment, in which it is necessary to preserve the balance resulting from both biodiversity and human activity.
Our event must contribute to a general awareness of the fragility of the natural environment. We make every effort to reduce our impact. We also recognize that there are unavoidable impacts, and we are committed to doing all we can to remedy them.
We try to minimize the environmental impact of our operations as much as possible.
We encourage you to minimize your impact on the environment in which you pass by adopting
An attitude as respectful of the environment as possible:
- do not drop anything on the ground in any area along the route (including populated areas),
- Do not shorten paths, as this will cause harmful erosion of the site,
- preserve the flora, respect the fauna and avoid making inappropriate noise,
- strictly respect the rules of nature reserves,
- limit carbon emissions by encouraging carpooling
Solidarity
We ask all GTLC members, wherever they may be or whatever their circumstances, to make it a priority to go and help anyone else in danger or difficulty.
As organizers, we are convinced that our solidarity must also be applied in a more global context, and that it is our responsibility to help those most in need. This conviction is based on our awareness of our own privileges and our attachment to humanist values....