.webp)
Cledara and UTMB
The UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) is one of the most prestigious trail-running events in the world, attracting elite runners and enthusiasts alike.
With several races of varying distances, it offers a unique challenge that combines extreme physical endurance with awe-inspiring natural beauty. Each year, runners from across the globe gather to test their limits in this demanding yet exhilarating race.
For the fourth consecutive year, Cledara had the honor of being its Official Technology Partner. We also had the pleasure of inviting six runners to participate in the EXP (32km) and PDA (55km) races. Despite the challenging conditions, they embraced the spirit of adventure and perseverance that the UTMB embodies.
Glenn Southam, and Christos Patakas, unfortunately had to withdraw, but Javier Canela, Dobrin Staikov, Roman De Oliveira, and Nil Puchol, successfully completed their races. Their experiences reflect the highs and lows of participating in such a grueling event and offer valuable insights for future participants.
Interviewing Nil Puchol, EXP Finisher
What were your expectations, and how did you start?
I started training after receiving the invitation from Cledara - three weeks before the race. Because I hadn't planned it, I couldn't prepare as thoroughly as I would’ve liked. I didn’t have high expectations, but in the end, I did well, and I'm quite happy with the result.
Was this your first time doing this type of race for the UTMB?
Yes, it was the first time, but I had already done mountain races, and I've been competing for a while. The longest race I did before this one was a half-marathon.
Can you describe a moment from the race that you will always remember?
The race lasted just over 3 hours, and we were having a cloudy day with lots of low fog. During the last 10 km, we climbed to a peak, and when the wind blew, it revealed the full magnitude of the mountain. I was very tired, but I managed to lift my head, and the sun come out.I'll always remember that.
Was there any challenge you faced? If so, how did you handle it?
I almost quit the race when there were only 2 km left. I was running downhill, and my legs were very tired. I slumped to the ground. Luckily, another racer helped me get up. I thought of my family and friends, and I did it. I managed to finish the race.
What did you learn about yourself after this experience?
Running is a tool for self-knowledge. It requires you to spend time with yourself, understanding your body and mind. Your breathing, your heart rate, your thoughts. I learned that we are more capable than we think. If you want something, you can achieve it. We need to be aware of our abilities.
How would you describe your race in three words?
Self-improvement, Challenge, and Enjoyment.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to participate in the UTMB?
Prepare well! And make sure you really want to do it because there's a bit of a trend now of doing marathons, Ironmans, ultramarathons, and so on. If you're not aligned with those values and are doing it for external validation or because your friends are doing it, then you won’t get the most out of it. I think it has to be something you do from within, with genuine passion and enjoyment.
Interviewing Javier Canela, PDA Finisher
How was the race and your general impressions?
I loved it. I aimed to finish in 7:40 but ended up doing it in 6:55. The atmosphere and the people were incredible: I felt welcomed all the time. I am very grateful to Cledara for inviting me.
How did you start running, and how did you end up doing a 55km race?
I started in August and signed up for a road marathon with some friends because we wanted to get out of our comfort zone. Turns out, I loved it. I had already done a lot of mountain activities and got into trail running because the mountains offer incredible landscapes.
Do you think more people are getting into trail running, and is it the future of running?
Yes, I think it's getting a lot of visibility. Also thanks to Strava, the app. However, my feeling is that people are normalizing some very intense situations that require a lot of training, and we shouldn't forget that.
Any advice for someone deciding to start?
Above all, enjoy it, and don't get obsessed with the pace. You have to go slow, build up distance, and outdo yourself.
Interviewing Roman, EXP Finisher
What were your expectations going into the race, and how did you prepare?
I knew it was going to be difficult, so I tried to prepare as much as I could. I did long runs, I went hiking, and ran in the mountains (the ones I could find) whilst on vacation in Romania and Spain.
Can you describe a standout moment from the race that you'll always remember?
Crossing the clouds. The weather changed drastically during the event and on Sunday, clouds were covering the mountains. While running uphill, we went from very low visibility to being on top of the clouds. Only the tips of the mountains were visible. It was a breathtaking view.
Were there any unexpected challenges you faced during the race, and how did you adapt?
Going downhill. After the final climb, my knees were giving up on me. Not much I could do. I just walked down instead of running, stepped aside, and cheered people as they passed me.
What did you learn about yourself from this experience?
Prep is not everything, but it sure helps tremendously.
Describe your experience in three words.
I want more!
What advice would you give to someone considering participating in UTMB?
- Do it.
- People around you are very friendly; don't be shy and talk to them.
- It's a great challenge, but if it's your first UTMB, pick a race that is adapted to your capabilities. You can always go further and higher in the next one.
Thank you to all the runners who participated in this amazing adventure. UTMB Val D'Aran is a unique experience that pushes you to your limits but also offers incredible moments and landscapes that you'll always remember. See you next year!
.webp)
-min%20(1).png)
