Challenge Run

What is CHALLENGE?

An exciting 4-day mountain sports competition and party between ETHZ and EPFL. 100 new Challengers from Zürich and Lausanne, along with 300-400 Challenge alumni, depart to a secret ski resort in Switzerland for an exhilarating experience. Dozens of previous events range from slalom and border-cross races (for skis and boards!), costume parties, gala nights to live bands and laser tag. Come and join our community!

What is the Challenge Run?

The Challenge Run is a fun and intense 2-minute obstacle course at the center of the ETH Hönggerberg campus. Every hour, 54 people can compete in a knockout tournament. The 4 winners of each qualifier directly win a place at Challenge 25. Of course you can participate for fun as well and just race in the Fun Run!

(You can only sign up for one category)

I don’t want to qualify for Challenge, can I just run for fun?

Yes! You and your friends can run for fun without any requirements aswell. Here you can also win cool prizes like a set of Polyball tickets!

Who is allowed at the Fun Run?

EVERYBODY who is a student at ETH, including Challenge Alumni. Polyball tickets and other fun prizes can be won!

Who is allowed to qualify for CHALLENGE 2025?

Unfortunately, new bachelor students with Legi: 24-XXX-XXX are NOT allowed to qualify. However, please enjoy the Fun Run with your friends instead! (Did we mention cool prizes?). Anyone else, including new master students (with Legi: 24-XXX-XXX), is allowed to participate in the qualifiers. Of course, feel free to just do the Fun Run if you want to.

I don’t think I can win, is it still worth competing?

Yes! Runner-ups earn priority stage places at the Challenge Night (“Anmeldefest”) on the 15th of November, where you can try to qualify for CHALLENGE 2025 as well.

What should I wear?

Sporting outfit of your choice and shoes that are allowed to get wet. You will get wet! We recommend you bring a towel and a warm jacket/sweater for waiting in between runs.

Is it safe and fair?

We have a paramedic service provided throughout the entire event. Additionally, staff will supervise each obstacle and have the power to immediately disqualify and remove anyone in the event of unsportsmanlike or dangerous behaviour.

How much fun will it be?

A lot! As well as participating and cheering on the runners, you can grab a drink at our bar and dance along with our accueils in front of our stage and DJ car!

How much does it cost?

The starting fee is 10 CHF. This money helps us cover the costs of setting-up and hosting the Challenge run. You can sign-up and pay for your ticket using your credit card or TWINT, by following the link below.