“Where the Ibex Run: A Story of Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB” is a Slovenian documentary exploring the world of mountain ultrarunning through one of Europe's most demanding and spectacular races: Julian Alps Trail Run, a 170-kilometre route through Triglav National Park and the majestic Julian Alps. Directed and written by Aliash Tepina, the film offers an in-depth look at the people taking on this extreme challenge and at what drives them to exceed their physical and mental limits.
Through the athletes' stories and evocative images of Alpine landscapes, the documentary highlights the connection between sport and nature, stressing the importance of environmental sustainability in protected areas which, like Triglav National Park, now face challenges related to tourism and conservation.
The runners involved represent differing experiences and motivations, united by a passion for mountain running and a desire for authentic contact with the natural environment. The film alternates racing, preparation and reflection, conveying the physical and emotional dimension of a journey that becomes a metaphor for endurance, introspection and respect for nature.
Produced by Tine Škrbec and Aliash Tepina, “Where the Ibex Run” is an independent, non-student project and is not the director's debut. Made on a €15,000 budget, the documentary was completed on 10 January 2024 and shot entirely in Slovenia, with digital 16:9 colour images.
Film Details
Title: Where the Ibex Run: A Story of Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB
Original title: Where the Ibex Run: A Story of Julian Alps Trail Run by UTMB
Director: Aliash Tepina
Production: Tine Škrbec, Aliash Tepina
Country: Slovenia
Language: Slovenian
Running time: 30 minutes
Genre: Documentary
Sport featured: Mountain running / Ultratrail
Protagonists: Ultra runners participating in the Julian Alps Trail Run
Completion date: 10 January 2024
Premiere: [Not specified]
Distributor: [Not specified]
Shooting format: Digital, 16:9, colour
Director's first film: No
Student project: No