With our first 100-kilometre ultratrail, running through the night becomes an integral part of the UTFS. Together with Lupine, we want to shape this experience – drawing on decades of lighting expertise from the neighbouring Upper Palatinate region, shared ideas and direct dialogue with you.
When the starting gun sounds in Ebermannstadt at 11 pm on 23 April 2027, our participants will have 100 kilometres of Franconian Switzerland ahead of them for the very first time. The opening hours will take them through the night: along narrow forest paths, between striking rock formations and up to viewpoints whose surroundings will only reveal themselves as morning arrives.
For this new chapter, we are joining forces with a partner that knows exactly what demanding adventures in the dark require: from 2027, Lupine will become the Functional Lighting Partner of the SALOMON Ultratrail Fränkische Schweiz.
Lighting expertise from just around the corner
It is only a short journey from Neumarkt in the Upper Palatinate to our trails. But geographical proximity is just one part of what connects Lupine and the UTFS. We share the same enthusiasm for the sport, a commitment to quality and the belief that a strong partnership grows through shared engagement.
For decades, Lupine has been developing and manufacturing high-quality lighting systems at its production facility in Germany. Well established in cycling, its headlamps have also long accompanied dedicated trail runners in training and competition.
At the UTFS, this expertise meets our close connection to the community and our experience of organising races. Together, we want to learn from one another and explore how lighting can better support the sport where it matters: out on the trails.
Franconian trails after dark
If you know Fränkische Schweiz by daylight, you will discover a different side of it at night. The beam of your headlamp draws your attention to the next step, familiar sections take on a different character, and lighting becomes an essential companion for staying safe on the trail.
Together with Lupine, we want to shape this experience for participants, volunteers and our organising team. Plans include a shared lighting concept for the night start, lighting for a night-time aid station and a Light Support service with replacement headlamps. Our core team and volunteers will also benefit from Lupine’s lighting systems during their duties.
“Our first 100K brings a new challenge – for participants and organisers alike. Anyone running through Franconian Switzerland at night will experience the trails in a completely different way. Together with Lupine, we therefore want to think beyond lighting as mandatory equipment and explore what it can offer participants, volunteers and the event experience as a whole. The fact that this expertise comes from the neighbouring Upper Palatinate makes it an especially good fit for us.”
Shared experience makes the adventure better
The partnership starts on the trails and thrives on dialogue. Through product testing and joint community activities, we want to give you the opportunity to try Lupine’s headlamps for yourselves and share your experiences.
How does a headlamp feel after several hours? What kind of lighting helps on technical sections? What do you need during training and a long night of racing? This feedback will help inform further product development.
“For us, direct dialogue is essential: listening, learning from practical experience and using those insights to develop the best possible solutions. That is exactly where we see the strength of this partnership. Authenticity comes from more than visibility alone – it comes from getting involved and making a real contribution.”
Connected by our region. Committed for the long term.
We also share common ground in our approach to resources. Lupine focuses on durable products, repairability, replaceable components and service. This philosophy aligns with our ambition to develop the UTFS with a sense of responsibility towards our region and a mindful use of resources.
Our partnership is therefore built for the long term. The first night start marks the beginning – of shared experiences, new ideas and a collaboration designed to grow with the community.
We look forward to our first year together with Lupine. And to experiencing Franconian Switzerland with you in a new light.
