Welcome to the 2023 Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), the pinnacle of mountain ultra-running. This year's event was nothing short of extraordinary, with runners facing grueling climbs, breathtaking scenery, and their own inner demons. Here’s a detailed account of the race week, from the shakeout run to the final steps across the finish line.
The Shakeout Run
The week kicked off with a shakeout run organised by Loyd from Run4Adventure. I joined Ben Parkes and many enthusiastic runners at the church by the UTMB start line. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly as we ran 4 miles finishing with a few loops of the running track, sharing laughs and banter about our marathon PBs and race strategies.
TDS: The First Race
The first race of the week, TDS, saw Christian Meier from Canada take the win. I chatted with him the next day at Moody's cafe, where he described the challenging climbs and technical sections coated in snow and slush. Watching the elites was inspiring, but seeing friends like Richard and Spencer finish after spending nearly two days on the course was truly heartwarming.
Elite Runners and Media Events
Throughout the week, there were numerous media events. I interviewed elite runners like Tom Evans and Sage Canaday, who shared their experiences and the unique challenges of racing in the rugged mountains of UTMB. Tom Evans, fresh from Western States, expressed his excitement about competing in UTMB again.
OCC: Victoria's Turn to Race
After five years of dreaming and training, Victoria finally got her chance to run the OCC. Despite feeling nervous and out of place, she was determined to do her best. The runnable trails of the Swiss mountains were a delight, and the first climb, though steep, offered stunning views.
As the race progressed, Victoria faced tough climbs, stony descents, and moments of sheer exhaustion. The climb up to Col de Balme was the hardest she had ever done, but reaching the top was a significant achievement. The final climb to La Flegere was grueling, but knowing her family was waiting at the finish line kept her going.
Crossing the Finish Line
The descent into Chamonix was emotional. Running through the town with her children by her side and friends cheering her on was an unforgettable experience. Crossing the finish line was a dream come true, and the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming.
UTMB: The Main Event
The UTMB race itself was a spectacle. From the crowded start line in Chamonix to the first climb under the evening sun, the journey was both physically and mentally demanding. The night was spent trudging up steep inclines with only head torches lighting the way. The climb to Col de Bonhomme was particularly memorable, with snow on the ground adding to the challenge.
The next day brought new trials as the heat took its toll. My stomach issues persisted, making it difficult to eat or drink. Despite the setbacks, I pushed on, driven by the thought of finishing what I had started. The climb up Grand Col Ferret, the highest point of the race, was a milestone that renewed my determination.
The Final Push
The descent into La Fouly and the climb to Champex Lac were tough, but the beautiful scenery and the support of fellow runners kept me going. As dawn broke on day three, I felt a renewed sense of hope. The final climb to La Flegere was exhausting, but the thought of the finish line spurred me on.
The Finish Line Experience
Reaching the foot of the descent into Chamonix was an incredible feeling. The support from the crowd and the sight of the finish line brought tears to my eyes. Crossing the line, I was overwhelmed with pride and joy. The journey was long and arduous, but it was worth every moment.
Historic Finishes
Victoria watched history being made as Courtney Dauwalter won UTMB for the third time, completing the triple crown of victories at UTMB, Hard Rock, and Western States in the same year. Jim Walmsley's emotional victory and course record was the elite highlight of the week.
Looking Ahead
UTMB 2023 was an unforgettable experience filled with highs and lows, challenges and triumphs. The camaraderie, the stunning landscapes, and the personal achievements made it a race to remember. We’ll all be back again in 2024, ready to face the mountains once more.
#utmb
#filmmyrun
#trailrunning
00:00 Start
00:55 Shakeout Run with @Run4Adventure and @BenParkes
03:40 Christian Meier
04:55 Sage Canaday
07:10 Tom Evans
08:00 Victorias starts OCC
14:34 Victoria finishes OCC
16:40 Robbie Simpson
17:34 Start of UTMB
21:48 Sarah Place
25:12 Hoka Light Tunnel
27:26 Summit of Col de Bonhomme
29:56 Col de la Seigne
32:16 Arete de Mont Favre
34:28 Courmayeur - Half Way ish
36:26 Refuge Bertone
38:08 Wanting to Quit at Arnouvaz
41:14 La Fouly
44:08 Trient
46:28 Valorcine
49:50 La Flegere
50:29 The Finish in Chamonix
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