SV SPORTVICIOUS November-December 2014

The Vegetarian Cyclist

Oxsitis Hydragon 10 Bottle

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2014

Interview with Vitaly Shkel

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GIVE THEM SPORT FOR CHRISTMAS

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They want pizza for dinner, just like dad does the night before a triathlon. They carefully arrange the clothes they will use for the match, just like mum does before a marathon. They go to sleep with the same hope, excitement and nerves adults feel the day before we put on a dorsal; they enjoy playing sports just like any adult would.

It’s fundamental that our children see us practicing sport and enjoying it. It is the only way to convey a model of active living, healthy habits and to become the best mirror for them, so that they learn important values such as perseverance, effort, determination, self improvement, sacrifice and companionship.

The benefits of sport are considerable, especially during childhood, but sport practice is essential. Numerous studies describe a host of physical and psychological benefits. Along with the many physical benefits, such as that sport prevents obesity, cardiovascular diseases and promotes the development of muscles and bones, when practicing sports our children are also educated in values. They learn how to lose and how to win, to tolerate frustration, to believe in themselves, to experience emotions... Physical activity helps them to socialize, to overcome shyness, to control impulsiveness, to relieve tension and to improve the quality of their sleep.

Children who play sports are more disciplined, organized, show more interest in learning, pay more attention in class and, on many occasions, do better in school.

Remember that the purpose of sport should always be to have fun, to play, to experiment and to learn together with other children in a healthy way. Learning how to appreciate one’s effort and boosting their self-esteem will make children happier and stronger. Competition should only add excitement to exercise but should never become the ultimate goal for its practice.

Let’s encourage them to find and play a sport they can enjoy and feel passionate about. Let them try it out, offering our support, confidence and determination by creating a motivating environment for its practice. Teach them to have fun running, cycling, swimming or playing with the ball. Let’s become the best example to them of how to win with humbleness, to lose with good sportsmanship, to show respect for the opponent, to work as a team and to improve a little more each day.

Gently let them share in our training sessions and competitions. Let them be our most enthusiastic supporters, let’s be their most fervent followers.

Since my children began joining me at the finishing line of my marathons, they dream of completing the distance to Pheidippides. Since they accompany their Dad on the red carpet, they have been swimming, pedalling and running, and have already been able to complete their first triathlon.

Sònia López Iglesias Teacher, psychologist and family coach Distance runner and future triathlete

http://www.sonialopeziglesias.blogspot.com



25REPORTAGES34

VITALY SHKELThree times Russian skyrunning champion and national team member

Junfrau MarathonUTMB Tour for the Alps Tor des Géants Transalpine-Run Expedition to Muztagh AtaUltra Sierra Nevada

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INTERVIEW4

TESTOXSITIS HYDRAGON BOTTLE 10 L. VERSATILITY AND RESISTANCE

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THE VEGETARIAN CYCLIST

HEATH

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4 / SPORTVICIOUS

VITALY SHKEL

INTERVIEW 4 / SPORTVICIOUS

Vitaly Shkel, three times Russian skyrunning champion and national team member, broke two ascent records on some of the highest mountains in Russia: Lenin Peak (7,165 m) and Mount Elbrus (5,642 m) this summer. A year ago he accompanied Catalan athlete Kilian Jornet in one of his projects known as

Summits of My Life. Having run a race in Elbrus together, they decided to try to break the record on the roof of Europe. The appearance of this Great Russian runner with a plaster on his nose in the Seb Montaz’s film Déjame vivir put Shkel -better known by his nick “The Monster”- on the scene. But who is Vitaly Shkel?

Do you consider yourself a runner or a climber? I am a runner. But sometimes I have to be a real mountaineer. The first time Seb Montaz and Kilian Jornet saw you, you reminded them of Russian boxer Ivan Drago, on the film Rocky IV. Have you really earned a reputation of a hard man?

5 / SPORTVICIOUSINTERVIEW

I don’t quite understand what a “hard” man is. Yes, I am a demanding person, but on things that concern just me. Sometimes I can look serious or outwardly rude, however those who know me much closer truly believe that it is not for real. I am a simple man, with my simple desires and weaknesses.

They say you spent a whole summer in a barrel-shaped hut at 4,000 meters to prepare for the race. Is it true?I live in the town of Terskol in the Elbrus region, at 2,200 meters of altitude. Yes, I sometimes spend some nights at 3,700-3,850 meters high (thanks to my friends). In fact, Elbrus is one of the

few places in the world where you can prepare for a race at high altitudes all the year-round. Yes, I’ve been lived at more than 4,400 meters altitude for 3 weeks. It was in July, just before the Lenin race -Elbrus doesn’t need such thorough acclimatization. And I didn’t go back to Mt Elbrus right after the Lenin Peak, so I can’t


say that I have used my acclimatization fully. I must say that such painstaking acclimatization has its pros and cons. You can gain in terms of functionality but lose physical shape and especially mental shape because of the altitude and the life conditions (which were great at the Lenin Peak due to Aksai-Travel Company). You get tired of daily lack of comfort, cold,

snow and ice. I think those who have ever spent such a long time in the mountains will understand what I mean.

What failed in the attempt on Mount Elbrus record with the Catalan runner? In the film, it looks as if Kilian Jornet tries to go ahead but then he gives up, freezing to death. The weather was to blame. The strong winds. And the

cold! On altitude our limbs would have frozen. While competing you can easily forget to pay attention to the fact that you do not feel your legs or hands any longer, and then you suddenly realize so. It has happened to me. Therefore I believe that the judges’ decision to stop the race was right. They knew better. I would not have stopped myself, neither would Kilian.


The record was not achieved at that time and you even failed to reach the top. Will you attempt it together again? I definitely wish I would have a chance to compete with Kilian again. Competing with a strong rival always makes you push to the limit. Also, such a competition promises to be interesting for the sports community.

The Catalan always tries to choose the best people in each discipline, and learn from them to improve.

What’s the contribution of your meeting to his learning? Jornet just beat the record for the ascent and descent on Mount McKinley in Alaska in similar climatic conditions to those he found in the Elbrus. It’s hard to say, you should better ask Kilian.Now that you have established a new ascent-descent record of 4 hours, 39 minutes and 17 seconds but you couldn’t beat the ascent record for 5 minutes -set in 2010 by the Polish Andrzej Bargiel-, are you

going to try it again? For sure. This record is not mine, so I have to try to beat it at all.

This attempt was in August. What has changed compared to last year, considering that it was in September, And the weather was worse?Each time was different. To my mind, Andrzej had the best conditions. When I was running together with Kilian the main problem was the cold and a really strong wind. When running at 4,200 m


high snow keeps melting and it is very soft, so it is impossible to run, although one has always the hope that it might freeze. But, these are mere excuses. I would probably calm down. I’d rather get down to doing some exercise, rather than trying to put the blame on the weather. And, of course, I’d try to beat the record, while it exists, whatever it takes. And the Elbrus, the Elbrus is always different.

Kilian Jornet a loves minimalism. He can always go without any equipment other than trainers,

shorts, a shirt and a light windbreaker... though he tasted the Russian cold! What equipment did you use in the Elbrus? So do I. I use as little stuff as possible; it depends on the weather, the season and the altitude I am going to run up to.On the Elbrus I wore tights, a t-shirt, and a jacket, all Salomon and also crampons.

Before conquering the highest mountain in the European continent, you broke the Lenin Peak record. This peak is higher

than the Elbrus, and yet you thought the record was easy. You managed to beat it the middle of the Lenin Sky Marathon Vertical Race, 14 kilometers that run from an altitude of 4,400 meters to the peak summit. Was doing it at the first try a surprise, or were you already after the record? The time was not bad indeed. Honestly, I was going to do it faster. I got lost at the beginning of the route and then I had to spend some minutes getting dressed at 6.100 meters, and there were


some other of time loss. Next year I will do my best to avoid things like that.

Aside Lenin Peak, there are some other former Soviet Union’s mountains as Ismail Samani Peak (7,495 meters, formerly known as Communism Peak) or Stalin Peak. Do you have any climbing project there? Is there a record set? On the territory of the former Soviet Union there are 5 summits like that: Communism Peak (7,495), Korjenevskaya Peak (7,205), Lenin Peak (7,134), Han Tengri (6,995) and Victory Peak (7,439). Surely I have a huge desire to try to run up and down each of them. This dream could come true only if I would have a sponsor that would be able to provide me a training programme and cover all the expenses. Only in such case we could seriously talk concerning a project like that. And Everest, of course! As a dessert.

It is known that you and Jornet share a passion for the Himalayas and both have outstanding projects in the highest mountain range on the planet. Any joint projects? We haven’t discussed that with Kilian. Yes, I’m interested in it. There are mountains that are too dangerous to run up to alone, for example, the Victory Peak. And as I said, competing always makes you to push your limits. The chance of not winning win does not scare me. When I feel that I gave the best of myself, and even more, that is the feeling I love and compete for.

Jornet once commented he isn’t obsessed by breaking the record of French Marc Batard in Everest, which dates from 1988, when he spent 22


hours and 30 minutes to climb it and a total of 36h including the descent. He says he prefers to arrive 5 minutes later to use 100 meters of fixed rope or have a person in a camp with a bottle of water. What is your opinion? Each person feels the risk his own way. It depends. I believe I am not obsessed with risk. It’s hard to imagine, I’m not sure whether I’d prefer to use a rope and to lose time. Well, it depends on the purpose. When it comes to the

record in on Everest I am ready to risk a lot. Counting on a miracle and relying on luck. We, Russians, even have a special term that describes actions like that: Russian avos’ (laughs). Whatever, it’s worth it.

Will you ever try to overcome that challenge? I will.

Yours is a sport with a high level of physical demand and often with a certain risk of having an accident, even dying. Do you think

about it when you run in a peak below 30 centigrade degrees, knee deep in snow and with less oxygen to carry to the lungs? I always keep risk in mind. And I never think about death as it makes no sense to think about it. If you’re hesitating –do not start, If you have started– do not hesitate. This is my philosophy.

How do you prepare for these challenges? I live in the Elbrus region. In the base period my


average training is 28-30 hours per week. And 14-16 hours by bicycle per week. I can’t say I have some special plan; I do it intuitively, just for myself. Do you follow a special diet? There is nothing special in it. I eat simple food with no cooking and almost no species. I only specially eat carbohydrates, mainly pasta, and basic foods, meat, eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, etc. I prefer home-made products as ayran and cheese. I also drink seltzer (Narzan) from local sources.

Do you have many years left at this level of demand? Since I was a child I have always been doing

some sports. A lot. I started my skyrunning career in Autumn 2009, when I first ran up to Mt Elbrus and when I first met my present coach.

Surely apart from going up and down from the highest mountains in the world you’ll have some other hobby. What does Vitaly do when he’s not running up the hill?Mountains are my life, my job and my hobby.

Interview by Òscar CusidóCoordinator of the interview: Anna MalevaPhotos by Andrey Gromov from Elbrus Race and Russian Skyrunning Association


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THE VEGETARIAN CYCLISTHEALTH 14 / SPORTVICIOUS

If you belong to a cycling club or association, you will most probably have an idea of what each member of the club is like and, depending on their attitudes, skills or bikes, surely you will have some “sweet” nicknames for some of them. Mr. “shortcuts”, who doesn’t need to disclose the reason for his nickname; Mr. “pedals”, who gets his name in honour of his bad experiences at the club annual dinner or even Carlos, the unnoticed cyclist, who is known as Carlos the Cannondale. We are all nicknamed in some way or another.

Well, surely if you are one such individual or belong to a group of people whose diet is based solely on products of plant origin -in other words, if you are a vegetarian-, the people in your group will surely have already

“labelled” you; though, if you have told them that you are a vegan, they might still be wondering what you were on about. In case you did not know, being a vegetarian is the same as being a vegan.

Vegetarians follow a diet based solely on vegetable products, and among vegetarians, there are some who allow themselves a few licences:

Ovo-vegetarians: include eggs in their diet, so if you sit next to them for Sunday lunch, they might give you their ham.

Lacto vegetarians: besides vegetables, they drink milk and eat dairy products (cheese, curds, yogurt, etc.).

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Ovo-lacto vegetarians: include, eggs and dairy products in their diet.

There are other types of vegetarians, but let us focus on those who solely eat vegetables in their diets because they are the ones who might be at greater risk of suffering from some nutritional deficiency, a fact that could affect sport performance.

It might seem difficult to understand how someone who only eats cereal, nuts, legumes, seeds, fruits and vegetables can perform to the limit. Indeed, it is possible to perform just as well as other individuals who follow a diet that includes foods of animal origin. Even those on a diet tend to enjoy better health and are less affected by bad cholesterol (LDL); as they do not consume

saturated fats, they tend to have lower body fat percentages, lower susceptibility to type II diabetes and better control of blood pressure.

Many professional and high-level athletes base their diet only on products of plant origin and get excellent results. Brothers and triathletes Eneko and Hector Llanos, for example, are vegetarians and triathlon is, by and large, a demanding and wearisome sport.

Vegetarians often have greater knowledge on nutrition because, somehow, they need to make sure to obtain from vegetable diets those vitamins or proteins that only animal products provide. It is the case that plant foods contain minerals or vitamins with much lower absorption compared to

16 / SPORTVICIOUSHEALTH

animal products; the proteins contained in vegetables also tend to have a much lower biological value than animal foods. The biological value of proteins is defined by:

- The amount of essential amino acids contained in the food.

- That the amino acids are found in adequate percentages.

- That they are easily assimilated.

The chart shows differences in digestibility (percentage of adsorbed protein which reaches the blood as amino acids), biological values (described above), lower proportions of some amino acids necessary for the body, and amino acids excesses both in plant and animal protein.


Possible deficiencies of a vegetarian diet Those who follow a strict vegetarian diet, unlike those who ingest eggs and milk, are more likely to suffer a deficiency in some vitamins or minerals.

Vitamins Vitamin B12 is not found in any plant food. In addition, this vitamin is especially vital for athletes, who suffer greater physical deterioration, and the lack of it might result in anaemia. This vitamin helps form red blood cells as well as aids in the maintenance of the central nervous system. Therefore, it is necessary to ingest foods containing vitamin B12. An alternative solution would be to provide the body with specific vitamin supplementation. Another deficiency may be vitamin D. In this case, it is convenient to take a vitamin-enriched cereal (for breakfast, for example) or to spread some margarine on toast. Sun

exposure is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin D. That should not be much of a problem if you’re a cyclist, unless you’re one of those who pedal on static bikes and so you’re always indoors. In such case, you must go for a daily walk to get some sun.

Oxalates and phytates Oxalates and phytates are components of plant foods that prevent the adequate intake of certain minerals; zinc, iron and calcium will be particularly affected. Omnivorous people will also be affected by these components but will have less of a problem when extracting micronutrients because they will get them in high doses in foods of animal origin and with higher bioavailability. But in the case of vegetarian cyclists, who must take the utmost nutritional advantage of plants, they should be more careful and avoid mixing in one meal foods which provide the minerals described with foods high in oxalates and phytates.


Oxalate-rich foods: spinach, beetroot, chard, cocoa powder, wheat germ and parsley.

Phytate-rich foods: wheat bran, unprocessed cereal and legumes.

Minerals A vegetarian cyclist may have greater risk of zinc, iron and calcium deficiency. The amount of zinc contained in fruits and vegetables is far less available than that contained in foodstuffs of animal origin. Try to eat a variety of whole grain cereals, peas, corn, carrots, nuts, dates and legumes. Yeast can also be ingested as supplement food; not only it is rich in vitamin B (very important in sports), but it also provides zinc.

Calcium is another mineral that may become deficient. Vegetarians must eat nuts and, especially, leafy greens. However, some green leafy vegetables like spinach and

Swiss chard contain oxalates and phytates that hinder iron assimilation. Consuming calcium-enriched products is also advisable.

Iron is an important dietary mineral for any individual, but in our case, it is even more so. Iron from plant sources (non-heme iron) is found in legumes, vegetables and nuts. It is absorbed in very small quantities, between 2% and 20%. So if you’re a vegetarian, you should watch your iron levels and consume plant foods that contain appreciable amounts of this mineral. When ingesting products with non-heme iron, it is important that you do not mix specific foods in the same meal, in order to facilitate absorption. Vitamin C is iron’s best ally, so try mixing iron rich foods with this vitamin.

Some iron-rich foods: nuts, sesame, lentils, chickpeas and dried apricots.


In addition,

Therefore, if you want to make the move to a vegetarian diet, it is best that you put yourself into the hands of a professional, if you do not want to cause any significant deficiency that may affect your performance.

Bibliography La dieta vegetariana, limitaciones y sus posibles efectos en el rendimiento físico-deportivo: Aritz Urdampilleta Otegui, José Miguel Martínez Sanz.Aguilar, M. La dieta vegetariana. Madrid, Ediciones Temas de Hoy, 1990.Deutsh, RM; Morrill, J. Realities of nutrition. Bull publishing company.Ninivaara, FP; Antila, P. Valor nutritivo de la carne. Editorial Acribia, Zaragoza, 1973. Chema Arguedas, Alimenta tus pedaladasJoan Ramón Barbany, Alimentación para el deporte y la salud


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If there is one brand that has recently made a strong impact in the field of backpacks and hydration systems for the practice of trail running it is the French brand Oxsitis.

Within its range of products, it seemed interesting to test the Hydragon 10 Bottle backpack model, which is surely one of the

most versatile models of the brand given its qualities and capabilities.

Looking at its main features, one can see at first glance that it is very robust. They have not skimped on costs to manufacture it with a fairly strong main fabric, which promises high tear resistance, as well as high quality

OXSITIS HYDRAGON BOTTLE 10 L. VERSATILITY AND RESISTANCE

Alejandro Molina

25 / SPORTVICIOUSTEST

zippers. This is in detriment to its weight, close to 400 grams without containers, which does not exactly make it the lightest in its category. Yet, being so strong and having such a high degree of protection for the materials carried inside, in the event of rain, this compensates the little excess in weight.

As for the rest, it has got two main compartments in the rear. The first one, closest to the back, is of large capacity and includes a water bottle.

Although this compartment has a zipper, it is not fully isolated, as only one net and “airback” padding separate it from our back. This system is designed to improve back ventilation, trying to counterbalance the fact of carrying a backpack. The padding seems a bit bulky for what is customary in this type of backpack, but it looks like it will be effective. The other back pocket is also fairly big in size and has a vertical zipper. Inside there are a series of good sized compartments,


which facilitate sorting out things perfectly, sufficient protection and helps finding things effortlessly. In one of these pockets we found a rather large thermal blanket.

As for the front, there are two large open pockets on both sides of the shoulder straps in which we can easily accommodate from soft flask small devices to large capacity containers. Just above each one of these pockets there is another medium/small sized one with a zip, ideal for accommodating gels, energy bars, salts and even a mobile phone or a mini-camera. The robust external fabric previously mentioned and the padding lining in the interior make it quite protective.

There is something rather peculiar beside the pockets designed to store the bottles: the Hydragon 10 has elastic straps to fix the poles. We must confess that it is one of the features that caught our attention on this model and which made us want to test it.

However, before that, let us mention that the backpack adjusts with two velcro straps on the bottom side of the bag, a non-adjustable one on the chest, which incorporates a whistle, and another one on the lower chest (at the level of the diaphragm approximately), which is velcro-adjusted and is equipped with a magnetic dorsal holder. Note that with the Hydragon 10 it is foremost to get the right size suitable to our


breadth, given that its capacity of adjustment is limited even though it does have many adjustment measures.

ON THE RUNWe carried out several previous training sessions with the Hydragon 10, to finally put it to the test on the Sierra Nevada Ultra Trail.

From the beginning we felt it was highly comfortable, thanks to its ergonomic system that even made you feel like it was much less loaded than it really was on occasions. The adjusting system also contributed to this. Even when straps and suspenders were not particularly tight, the bag would not move and you could even forget you had it on. In this respect, we always thought it would be best not to adjust the bottom strap firmly, as it could produce an uncomfortable pressure in the diaphragm area. The good news was that a slight tightening was more than enough for the lower part of the straps (where the bottles are), not to move at all.

As far as the straps are concerned, although they incorporate large bottle pockets, they allowed the arms to move freely because contact with them was minimal.

The truth is that the backpack did not move or become a nuisance while running. At the same time, access to bottles as well as to the zipped pockets on the straps proved very adequate and any manoeuvre could be executed quickly enough.

Our greatest uncertainty was how the backpack would perform when carrying poles. So we proceeded to


fix folding poles in the fixtures provided and so we conducted several training sessions.Firstly, the removal and fixing manoeuvre was neither comfortable nor fast. Having each pole in a different place required to release one pole first and then, with one hand occupied holding a pole, to perform the same releasing procedure for the other (which couldn’t be done smoothly, no matter how much practice one could have). When it was time to put them away, this drawback came up again, but the other way around.

Too often, one ended up holding the poles in the hands, which is precisely what an easy access fixing system intends to avoid.The other downside is that, although it was not at all a nuisance for the arms, holding the poles did produce occasional friction between the bottom of the poles and our body. Naturally, friction would be higher or lower depending on pole length but, in any case, poles would rub our clothing. In the long run, this might cause some deterioration to the clothing. In turn, if the

TEST 29 / SPORTVICIOUS

poles are dirty, they will inevitably stain our clothes. Because of this last drawback, we discourage the use of telescopic poles, given their greater length. In short, our conclusion is that it is an innovative fixing system, which seems very appropriate a priori, but also has some drawbacks that should be taken into account.

As for the rest, we were glad to check the excellent waterproof protection offered by the outer fabric in the rain. On days when rain surprised us with intermittent downpours and we had not covered our equipment with plastic bags, we feared we would get the equipment out completely wet. Fortunately for us, however, that was not the case. Here is a positive aspect to keep in mind.

Here is a video which clearly shows the experience of using the Hydragon 10.

Having drawn all these conclusions, we decided to test the Hydragon 10 in last year’s edition of the Ultra Sierra Nevada. This video shows how we proceeded to fit all the required material into the backpack.

During the race, the Oxsitis Hydragon 10 offered a very high degree of comfort. We felt it fully integrated into our body and its ventilation capacity was very adequate. At no time did we feel discomfort or perceived it too bulky (despite holding the poles fixed).

The material was properly arranged and there was no need to compress it inside. The truth is that the 10-litre-capacity was more than enough to accommodate the entire mandatory equipment, even though the backpack is not expandable or slightly elastic. We also made a note to place the


http://youtu.be/nP6lRhWFgZ4

http://youtu.be/1m1xbtNAqvQ

windbreaker and waterproof trousers in the pocket inside which is in contact with our back, as they are two garments that, although they could get wet by our sweat, they would not be affected by it.

We only found two aspects which needed improvement. The main one, the aforementioned pole fixing system, which caused us to only use them if it was absolutely necessary to do so and, on several occasions, we decided to carry them in our hands before repeating the (somewhat tedious) replacement manoeuvre.

On the other hand, the absence of side pockets (which we could access without removing the backpack) is a handicap in long races. When the gels and bars which we carried in the strap pockets were finished, we were forced to stop and replace them with those in the pocket inside the rear compartments. In turn, when the use of the forehead light was no longer necessary, once again we had to take off the backpack to store it in the same back pocket. Our conclusion is that the side pockets (which Oxsitis incorporates in other models) are very functional and we missed having them


on the Hydragon 10.There is however a “workaround” system (thanks to the lower chest strap setting), whereby taking off the backpack or stopping completely -if one is skilful- can be avoided (although this requires walking). This system becomes easier when not carrying poles:

1. Drop the upper chest strap and release one of the straps. 2. Without releasing the bottom strap, turn the backpack around to be back to front. 3. Access the equipment required.

Repeat the manoeuvre in reverse to put on the backpack again.

As for the rest, the experience was very satisfactory. The Hydragon 10 disguises true load like no other backpack, its ergonomics are very accurate and it helps not to lose balance. The materials are both strong and not at all aggressive to the skin. As for resistance, the zippers will perfectly endure long wear and salt will not ruin them.

CONCLUSION As we foresaw, the Oxsitis Hydragon 10 proved to be a very versatile backpack. It didn’t feel bulky and allowed us to carry loads well arranged, making it suitable for medium and long distance running. When the backpack’s half empty, contents will not bounce uncomfortably and if the backpack is full, it will prove large enough to carry everything that is needed. Only the pole fixing system (precisely one of its distinctive features) and the absence of side pockets seemed to us to be aspects for improvement in a product of excellent quality.

Álvaro Rodríguez


Villarroel, 184 | 08036 BARCELONA | T. 93 419 20 00 | [email protected] | www.intemperie.net

¡Equípate bien para este invierno!

Todo lo quenecesitas para caminar, correry viajar por el medio natural.

http://www.intemperie.net/

http://www.intemperie.net/

mailto:[email protected]

RUNNING AROUND JUNGFRAU MARATHON

34 / SPORTVICIOUSREPORTAGES

Statistics say this is the world’s most beautiful marathon, so I travelled to Switzerland to find out. The answer is clear, they are right.

The Jungfrau Marathon, which celebrated its 22nd edition this 2014, starts in the tourist resort of Interlaken (568m above sea level) and finishes at Kleine Scheidegg (2,061 above sea level). Colossal mountains of over 4,000m in height, such as the Jungfrau (4,158), the Mönch (4,107) and the Schreckhorn (4.078), rise up to surround the finishing line. Its nearly vertical snow-covered walls take the runners’ breath away even more. Being up there is simply impressive. And getting there, running, is a challenge that not everyone can achieve.

The race is part of a holiday weekend when the Swiss summer is coming to an end. The town of Interlaken dresses up to host the elite mile (only for invited athletes, including several European and world medallists). This mile takes place on Friday afternoon, around the meadow in front of the luxurious Hotel Victoria; a meadow used for paragliding fans to come back down to ground after several minutes in the air. Just before, there are also races for children, people in wheelchairs, the disabled and a 4,2195 km-long fun-run for anyone to join in.

But the greatest show starts on Saturday morning. After a flag dance and the singing of the national anthem of Switzerland, the starting gun marks the beginning of a

“The most beautiful marathonin the world”

REPORTAGES 35 / SPORTVICIOUS

challenge much greater than that of running 42,195 kilometres. This is an unusual marathon, which combines asphalt with ground tracks and other paths. A marathon which saves the toughest stretch to the end, as if the infamous wall at kilometre 30, physically existed.

The first five kilometres run through the city of Interlaken, to reach the city of Böningen and trace the river Lütschine up to Lauterbrunnen. Up to here, at kilometre 25, the added altitude has been small but the worst is just about to start. The slopes at kilometre 25 are so steep that kilometric marks come into view every 250 meters (and, even then, it takes a long time to get to them).

The town of Wengen, at kilometre 30 and at a height of 1,257 meters, is an ode to optimism. Many of its inhabitants together with people who get there by the rack

railway crowd the streets and squares to cheer on the athletes. The terrain seems to become gentler and now the goal feels closer. But this is only a mirage.

As we get closer to the clouds the goal gets further and further away. Oxygen becomes increasingly insufficient as we move away from civilization. But the powerful beauty of the landscape is stronger than anything else. Nobody says it is forbidden to walk, so when strength (or oxygen) are unfortunately not there it is time to lift one’s head up, slow the pace down and gaze at the beauty of the mountains around us.

Onlookers sporadically show up to cheer on the athletes, and the sound of the rack railway brings you back down to Earth. But the taste of effort is more enjoyable when suffered alone, in such vast solitude.

Swiss trumpet players (those whose trumpets touch the ground) play patriotic


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjvJKYdT1-w

tunes as runners pass by. And the famous Piper at kilometre 40,5 (the highest point of the route) hasn’t missed this annual date and plays his bagpipes from the moment the first runner passes until hours later, when only the stragglers are left. Standing on top of a rock, his imposing figure shows respect. Elsewhere he would be mocked but, there, at the toughest point of the race, his presence expresses calm and peace.

And so the most beautiful marathon in the world (and the toughest) ends, with a downhill kilometre, which no one knows for sure whether it helps or is even more annoying. But the finish line is a bustling celebration that finishes when you like, because, when runners feel fully recovered,

they sit on the rack railway and go down to Interlaken. And this journey is, no doubt, the most surprising. Riding downhill what has been run uphill takes more than an hour. It is then that all athletes discover that their quest has been tremendous and a second, much wider smile can be seen on their faces than the one they had when crossing the finish line. For, finishing a marathon is more or less easy, but completing the Jungfrau Marathon is a privilege reserved to only a few.

Marc Roig


http://carrerasdelmundo.blogspot.com.es

http://www.runinafrica.com

http://facebook.com/runinafrica

One of the most emblematic mountain races, the UTMB (The North Face Ultra-Trail Du Mont-Blanc) has been held since 2003. It is a mythical race, restricted to 2,300 participants, where athletes run along 168 km with a total climb up of 9,600 meters and with start and finish in Chamonix. Over the years, its organizers have been devising new races. In 2006, the CCC (Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix), a 101-kilometre race with a total climb of 6,100 (limited to 1,900 participants), was founded. A new great adventure began in 2006: the PTL (La Petite Trotte à Léon), where athletes would take part in teams of 2-3 runners having to cross 300 km with a total climb up of 28,000 meters D+. The first edition of the TDS (Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie) a 119-km race with a total climb of 7,250 m D+ with arrival and end in Chamonix and limited to 1,600 runners, was held in 2009. Finally, a new race took place this year: the OCC (Orsières-Champex-Chamonix) a 53-km race with 3,300m D+, limited to 1,200 runners. All of these races have something in common: they are nearly all self-sufficient races, except for the PTL, which is completely self-sufficient. The mere fact of being at the start of any of these races is a privilege. The following accounts perfectly reflect what it is like to cross the finishing line in Chamonix.

THE 5 RACES: THE NORTH FACE ULTRA TRAIL DU MONT-BLANC UTMB-CCC-TDS-OCC-PTL


PATRICK A. MULLER AND MARTA MUIXÍ LIVED THE UTMB

Friday, D day. We got to Chamonix. No hurry. I didn’t even want to be addressed. First, I handed in my replacement bag; then, I searched for a place in the same street where I could get changed. I could see people already dressed. Once the bag for Courmayeur was delivered, I felt more relieved.

At 16:30 there was an increasingly bustling atmosphere. I jogged a little with the armour and backpack on, to release a bit of energy; I felt comfortable but heavy; taking the last pictures before the start giving goodbye kisses we headed off for the archway start. We got near the square but it was crammed, so we queued on one of the side streets.

I was all alone in the queue, so I was able to relish the fact of being there.

The countdown began; the Vangelis song -a classic in the UTMB- was on in the background; it was raining; there was a helicopter and some dark clouds behind it; The Mont Blanc ahead; all hairs standing up; the excitement was running through my body from top to bottom. 3, 2, 1... the dream had begun. The start was very slow, a fact that made me a little despondent. I started to run and to overtake people nonstop; all the UTMB was ahead of me. It started to pour; this was precisely what I didn’t want. Whatever. We were on the run; there was no turning back. In 2h-3h, I would see Estela and Alejandro in Saint Gervais, at km 21 approx. My first fall at km 15: a root that came out of nowhere. That’s the trouble with

“The different lightshades, the sound of the river and a large fire pit, turned going past Notre Dame La Gorge into a magical moment”


races with so many people at the start, you cannot see clearly what is in front of you. Yet, this made my adrenaline rise.

Upon crossing Saint Gervais, I could hear my wife and son cheering me on: ‘Come on, Dad! Are you okay? Everything OK’ I said with my thumb up. As I was leaving, Alejandro shouted: courage and good luck! Deep inside, I knew the good part was yet to come; all of this had been a mere warm-up. Those two words of my son made me feel excited again, I was entering the unknown. We went into the forest and it was time to be very careful, to follow roughly the expected pace not wearing myself out too much and, above all, to keep an eye on not slipping up and have another mishap. The ground was very muddy, our feet weighed down with water

and mud, and the air was very humid.

The cheering of the people was what most caught my attention; the Spaniards encourage you when you are approaching the villages, this boosts your spirits: ‘Come on, Patrick!’ Sometimes, I thought they were people I knew, but they weren’t. The truth was that I appreciated this encouragement. The people in the race, however, barely spoke. We had to save energy. I didn’t feel like chatting, so did not seek much conversation at checkpoints.

I went past Les Contamines. Both the meandering through the forest and my high concentration level made me feel it was taking me forever. I put on the forehead light and ran past Notre Dame de La Gorge, a church in the midst of a spectacular


landscape. It was night and the different light shades, the sound of the river and a large fire pit, made that moment magical.

A climb towards La Balme, to the Croix Bonhomme refuge. The first peak was crowned; it was cold, so I had to keep up the pace, I did not want to put on more clothes because it was raining at times and I did not want to have wet clothes on. I kept running at a good comfortable pace without excess; timing fitted roughly so I would be in Courmayeur after 14 hours of racing.

A descent to Les Chapieux; many slippery paths and some falls; checkpoint and back up to Col de la Seigne. A long and spectacular ascent. The different light shades were amazing. New checkpoints in Lac Combal, Arête du Mont-Favre, Col Chécrouit and Courmayeur.

In Courmayeur I took care of my blistered feet and it took me over an hour to pull myself together, to heal my feet, to get changed, to sort out the replacement bag, to have something to eat and to take a break. I found it hard to start again and couldn’t seem to go back up to my pace. The ascent to the Bonatti and Bertone refuges and the stretch up to Arnuva were my worst moments of the whole race; I could not get back into pace, I was sleepy, but I knew I had to carry on, I had to fight for my dream, for all those friends who would have given anything to be there. It was a unique opportunity! In Arnuva I regained strength again and stopped at every checkpoint; I hydrated and fed well, the magical broth bowl had a miraculous effect. I was prepared for the ascent to Grand Col Ferret.


I came to Grand Col Ferret after 21h39’ of racing and I got a rush. On the descent I had fun, I loved it; I could finally run well and had recovered legs and head. I overtook some 200 participants in that stretch to Champex Lac.

Once in Champex Lac I knew that there were three peaks to get to Chamonix, but did not know the type of terrain I would find, neither how my body would react on the second night after 25h 36’ racing. Running a mountain marathon with some 6,000 meters of climb up after 25 hours is tough. It started to get dark and it was time to put the forehead light on. The ground was muddy, forested, difficult and tiring; it was night and I knew that it would take me longer than I expected. Upon my arrival at Trident, after 30h of racing, I let my wife know. It took me

a whopping 8 hours and a half to cross the following three peaks, of about 3 km vertical on difficult terrain. I climbed as strong as I could and descended very carefully because the ground was slipping everywhere, encountering fog, cold, a bad body, various falls and hallucinations.

Finally, it was daybreak under La Flegere, where moisture and wet stones turned the path into a skating rink. The last 8 kilometres seemed endless. My knees were stiff, and so were my ankles after a couple of mishaps and a strained right quadriceps almost did not let me run. I called my wife again and told her I would be there in some 40’ or so. ‘We have been at the finish since last night,’ she said. A few tears ran down my face and I ran as much as I could to Chamonix. It was great!

“I just want to grab Alejandro’s little hand and cross together the triumphal arch of the UTMB”


I reached Chamonix together with Juan Carlos, the only person I could talk to for a while on the last climb from Argentiere. We crossed the finishing line together and in the distance I could see my great Alejandro running to me. How touching! This was the moment I had been waiting for, for 38h. What a thrill! I was so tired that I simply could not get more excited. I just wanted to grab Alejandro’s little hand and cross the triumphal arch of the UTMB together... A challenge, a dream fulfilled and a dream deserved after everything I had struggled to get there. A finisher at the UTMB!

I especially would like to thank my family for supporting me at all times from Chamonix and Lanzarote, my friends, and my team HH Trail Team for doing a great race follow-up and for sending me encouragement and support before, during and after the race.

My trainer Gemma Quiroga, for all the headaches I gave her with my injuries, and for all the improvements in technique and training that I perceived in myself during the race.

Also, the contributors who have supported me in this dream: Seguros MB, Helly Hansen Puerto Calero, Stilo Vitae, Club Santa Rosa, Powergym, Novagestion Consultants and Paleotraining.

And, especially, I’d like to thank Juan Montero, for making my miracle recoveries possible. I would not have been in the starting line of the UTMB without him.

Patrick A. Müller


http://vimeo.com/106115658

Just over a year ago, I saw the UTMB archway in Chamonix. The atmosphere of race days could not be grasped that day, but the archway alone was enough for me to decide I wanted to run that race. My mate Raul and I signed up for it at the same time, and we were lucky in the draw, so all we had to do was to train to achieve our goal: to complete our first 100km race.

And, without even noticing, the day arrived. It was August 29th; it was 5 pm and we were at the heart of Chamonix, among over 2,000 people in the rain and “ready” to start an adventure that would last longer than expected.

The race start was simply amazing. There were hundreds of people clapping and cheering us on. There, among the shouts of encouragement, we ran past a man who cried ‘Bon voyage!’ He knew exactly what he

was talking about! We set out at a good pace. Trying to find our place among so many people was overwhelming, but we didn’t get disheartened. It was still raining, at times quite heavily, but it wasn’t cold or windy. At 11 pm I began to yawn, the first sign of a sleep attack. I knew it would be one of my weaknesses but, so soon? Not even six hours had gone by! Our timing was good, probably too good, but we were not exceeding our pace. Shortly after the first marathon, I felt a sharp pain on my knee. It was a pain I knew well; it had never constrained me before, but I knew well enough that the ache would carry on until I stopped.

We arrived in Courmayeur in fairly good time. So far, we didn’t feel it had taken us too long, but that would have been too much. We were not even half way through the race! At that point, we were given a life bag. For hours I had feared the moment I would

“Fatigue mixes with joy, the memory of the lowest moments with euphoria”


take off my socks. My feet were spoilt; I had some blisters and black toenails. I changed socks and had something to eat. Sitting there with a bowl of soup in my hands, my mood changed one hundred and eighty degrees. I was knackered. Sleep and pain were discouraging me. But the worst thing for me was to face the new situation: we had completed 77 kilometres and there were 90 kilometres ahead! Had they been 20 or 30, I wouldn’t have worried... But 90, ugh... I knew this way of thinking would not be of any help and I did not contemplate giving up due to fatigue. So there was no alternative but to get energy and a positive attitude from God knows where to be able to carry on.

On leaving the checkpoint, we realized we had made a rookie mistake: not sleeping. We were walking so slowly that we could have been run over by a bus full of old people carrying rucksacks of 80 kilos. Before reaching the refuge in Bertone, Raul told

me that the time had come to do a T10: Ten minutes of sleep recovery, a technique Sergi Cots had told us about. We lay on a meadow with an alarm clock by our sides and, before our eyes closed I was sound asleep. The sleep did us well. We did not feel stronger but walked up and trotted faster and easier when the ground allowed it.

We arrived at Grand Col Ferret with our spirits and physical condition like a roller coaster. There, we came across Cristina and Gerard, Klassmark’s friends, who gave us all the joy we needed. Until then, we hadn’t realized how important it was to see familiar faces when embarking on a long adventure. We descended at a trotting pace toward Fouly. It seemed that the extreme fatigue had vanished by magic. We arrived at Champex-lac checkpoint, at km 122, where they were waiting to take care of us majestically. I was so touched by their attention that all I could do was to cry.


We left the checkpoint after a massage that did wonders to us. We felt strong and took advantage of it. No room for thinking about how we would feel in a couple of hours. We increased our pace on the way down to Trient; it was a long descent and we overtook quite a few runners. Soon after, we realized that, indeed, we had got too excited and had used up the little energy we had remaining. This was how we were; we didn’t know how to do it any differently. We started to run slowly and there were two climbs ahead, nearly a marathon in length, and we were broken to pieces. Our most optimistic time estimates had been left many kilometres behind us and the only real objective was to reach the goal. It was night already, and sleep was taking over me. Besides, the knee had not stopped hurting and, because I carried on forcing the leg, I got a nasty surprise: a stone-looking lump on my tibia.

In fact, both of my legs were taking on an increasingly suspicious colour and looked more like those of a grandmother with poor leg circulation. I knew it wasn’t healthy, I knew my body was telling me to slow down but, having gone so far, I simply could not leave it halfway.

Departing from Trient, I asked Raul to set a smooth and steady pace. Our usual climbing distance in long runs on slopes with added altitude difference was somewhere between 500 - 600 meters per hour, but at that moment it was 300m. We even sat down to rest on a rock and I closed my eyes for a moment. The ascent was slow but the descent to Vallorcine was endless. It was not a matter of technique, but each root of grass seemed to be an insurmountable obstacle. At the checkpoint, we had a 5-minute nap. For the first time in my life, I took a caffeine tablet, hoping it would have an effect on me.


We got to the last climb, the Tête aux Vents. I strived to maintain a decent walking pace. I couldn’t manage it and so, I had to sit back halfway up. I would never have thought that my body would ask me to sit down in the middle of a race, but it did. With over 150 kilometres on my legs, it was more of a must than a temptation. At the top we came to a very long and rocky stretch. Perhaps due to cumulated fatigue I found it to be the most technical part of the race. And I kept saying to myself: Is this real? Now? My tibia and knee had worsened, as I expected. I thought the more I would run, the shorter the torment. So, at that point, that’s all I wanted. Raul was ahead of me and I asked him to run faster; he did not quite know what to do when he saw me wincing. But I urged him that he would trot, albeit at a slow pace, because it would be faster than walking.

On the entire stretch of the plateau there were stony slopes with the footsteps of the runners who had run past them, marked on them. We saw human faces, animals and even oddly shaped trunks that seemed untouched. Raul approached a stone and looked at it closely. The vegetation on it resembled modernist art. There I began to understand why people feared the second night.

It took us forever to get to Flegère. But once there, we finally saw the light. We didn’t stop. We had some water and, above all, a terrible desire to put our feet in Chamonix. We ran down quite fast, compared to the regrettable pace that we had been dragging for hours. When we were nearly there, we had another pleasant surprise: Albert Balcells had come up from Chamonix to meet us. Seeing a familiar face, starting a new conversation seemed to lighten the heavy load full of hours we had been carrying on our shoulders. We sprinted to reach goal while all the emotions experienced during this intense journey were coming alive. And, finally, Chamonix. Fatigue became mixed with joy; the memory of the lowest moments with euphoria. Finally, we stopped running.

Marta Muixí


JAVIER RODRÍGUEZ Y DAVID COMA LIVED THE TDS

When somebody has been running in the mountains for a good number of years, as it is in my case (I’m reaching a certain age), one starts to think about running the most famous race in the world, the UTMB, at least once in life. Once the decision is made, the process requires attaining the required qualifying points. With the seven points in hand, I signed up for it but, just then, a few doubts loomed up: it’ll mean running four marathons… I’ll end up in pieces… I’ll have to run during the night... Just then, on the Internet, I came across some alternative races such as the CCC or the TDS and, as at this moment I’m not prepared to run any less than 100 km, I decided the TDS was the race I would run. The more I heard about this

race –that it was more technical than the UTMB, that the route was “cool”, that it was a really tough race...-, the more I liked it and the more convinced I was. Once in Chamonix, and upon grasping the atmosphere in the preparations, I realized that any one of the races would be an experience that was really worth living.

So there I was, standing on the start line in Courmayeur, having woken up really early. Familiar faces, greetings, kisses and ... off I went! After crossing Courmayeur, we took some ski slopes towards Col Checrouit. We formed a group of about ten runners and, as most of us were carrying poles and ran all lined up, it seemed as if we were on a ski mountaineering race. Upon reaching the Mont-Favre ridge… Wow! What a view! We came across the glaciers that descend from


the Italian side of Mont Blanc. I recognized the Aiguille Noire de Peutery and memories of some bivouac nights around the area with my good old friend Palas when I was a climber came to mind. I had to stop thinking or I would lose concentration! The path went up and down and the resulting picture was just amazing; it looked promising. When I got to Lac Combal the wind started to blow harder and I regretted not wearing sleeves, but I saw nobody stopping to put on warmer clothing, so… neither did I! I carried on hoping we would be downwind on the other side of the Col de Chavanes. Another stretch zigzagging and the slope to reach the hill had been “eaten up”. The first 2,000 meters had been completed, and in no time! We started the descent and Toti offered to help me out to put my poles in the backpack but, as I had picked some rigid ones from the many I had at home, I declined his offering, I helped him sort out his poles, I died of envy and cursed myself for not having chosen some different ones. Meanwhile, two groups

had formed in the race. Ahead were Xavier Thevenard and Nepalese Tamang (with a Dutch athlete); behind were Toti Bes, Jordi Gamito and myself. The truth is I’d rather run on my own so as not to wear down, but I could not renounce such good company.

Running through meadows, the trail began to become steeper as we approached Col du Petit St-Bernard. From below we could hear shouting, cheering and encouragement. I said to Toti I felt as if I was running at home. We stopped at the checkpoint and the three of us started the descent each one separated from the other by a few meters; the three of us were together, but running at our own personal pace. I tried to be as consistent as possible to wear down as little as possible. A fabulous descent! Meadows, trails, tracks, paths…, we carried on devouring kilometres until we got to Bourg Saint Maurice, at km 50. The first third of the race done! We came into the assistance zone among the cheering of people.

“After the experience, I’m afraid I have no other choice but to come back”


I tried not to spend too much time at the checkpoint, but Jordi decided to stay because he needed some assistance. The trail ascended through the village houses, you know: landscaped gardens, wooden roofs... I wondered if it would be worth living there, in front of the mountains and glaciers of the Vanoise. I concluded that the answer was: it would. We climbed up to Fort de la Platte and to Col de la Forclaz. How many Col de la Forclaz would there be in France? The day before, I had mentioned to Jordi how crucial that 2,300m-high climb was. The trail was very steep, as deep as a trench; there was no airflow and it zigzagged up, up and further up. I caught up with the third in our group and realized that Toti had been held a bit longer at the checkpoint. ‘What if I have a go, in case he has a bad day?’ I thought. From below, I began the ascent at a strong pace and tried to keep it up. I paid for my boldness, of course! Toti ran past me and I had a small crisis. We arrived at the fortress through the pit, and I focused on not stumbling and ending up inside it. My God! A great thing to see

when you are on guard!

After the Col de la Forclaz the race became more mountaineering and the path more technical, slow and winding, the style of the Pyrenees. We reached the boundary of Passeur de Pragnoglan and completed a tough ascent. We had accumulated some 4,500 meters of climbing. The hill was nice and, from control, they had been cheering me for while. Surprise! The descent was technical and there was even a rope. I found myself facing the Mont-Blanc massif and glaciers again. The day was sunny, lovely. How lucky we had been with the weather! We reached the Beaufortain and I could finally admire the land where I had skied in Pierra Menta so many times. At Cormet de Roseland checkpoint I forced myself to eat a piece of Beaufort cheese for the sake of trying a local product rather than because I was hungry.

For a while I had been running at variable distances, somewhere between three and five minutes behind third place. I could see them on the climbs, but my legs started to stiffen on the descents. Toti was already ahead of Tamang. What a man! Xavier


Thevenard was probably further ahead. On this stretch of the race, ascents were shorter, some 500 meters in length, but very straight, and went through meadows and trails. I began to cut down on the Nepalese. We first climbed up to Col de la Sauce and, to go down to the Gitte, the stoned path became more aerial as it was near the edges, which allowed us to enjoy the views across the valley. We were facing the climb to Entre Deux Nantes and, just after crowning it, I caught up with the Nepalese. As I got the feeling that he was knackered, I thought time had come to do get down to some business. I had a pee, tied my shoe laces, took out a few things from the backpack and... off I went after him! Where on earth was he? I saw him sprinting like mad while I’d run out of legs on the descent. The trail to Col de Joly went zigzagging up and down through a ridge, and allowed us to anticipate the large altitude difference that we would

have to face to get to Les Contamines. At Col du Joly checkpoint I was told Tamang had already given me back the five minutes. I didn’t worry, I was ecstatic admiring the Montblanc and the Dome de Meige; I was also getting dog-tired. For a while I simply couldn’t eat a thing. As it happened at all checkpoints, I was highly cheered on, I was wonderfully taken care of and I was informed, so I went off as honourably as my legs allowed me.

The descent to Les Contamines was mixed and went through ski slopes, trails, steep paths through forest full of roots, Roman paths and a plain, which somehow anticipated that my arrival to Chamonix would be tough. At the checkpoint I searched everywhere for something to fill my stomach with. All discarded, I decided to take a couple of gels. People were encouraging me, I felt excited to see familiar faces and, when I had


a look at my watch for the first time in the race, it amazed me to realize I was near the best running time of previous editions. And, even though that encouraged me, I went at a slow pace and hoped for an ascent because I’d have no legs whatsoever downwards. When I thought about it, I became cross: ‘I don’t usually have problems on descents!’ I thought. ‘Anyway, that’s what happens in long distance running.’

The last climb was the cherry of the race: another 500 metres which looked like a brick wall from below. I began the climb and I saw that the Nepalese and Toti were together. How stressful! And how much suffering at this stage! After 13 hours of running, I did not envy having to fight for a position. On the descent, we could enjoy the last views of the glaciers before night.

In Les Houches I could foresee the

atmosphere to be expected in Chamonix. Throughout the 8 km on flat terrain that separated us from the goal, I came across people sitting on the road, shouting and cheering. Thanks to them I managed to overcome the urge to walk instead of running. I ran through the streets of Chamonix among greetings and encouragement from strangers and acquaintances, whom I had not expected to see there. It is not every day one faces an entry to such an exciting goal; despite being fourth in the race, which is a position that sometimes has a disgruntled feeling, I was more than pleased.

I had in mind to run around the Montblanc at least once, and now, after the experience, I’m afraid I have no choice but to do it again.

Javier Rodríguez 4th in the rankings, 1st Senior


It was late Summer. The family holidays had finally arrived and so had my sporting goal of the season: the Traces des Ducs de Savoie. One day before my first 119-km ultra in the Mecca of trail, Chamonix, my head and stomach felt perfectly okay. The clouds had covered the Montblanc and it was pouring so we started to wonder what equipment to carry on the race day. Constant trips to and from the shops. A short-sleeved or long-sleeved thermal T-shirt? Shoes with thinner or thicker soles? Would it rain? Thousands of questions with too many answers. Talks and nerves shared with a bunch of ‘homely’ friends through the streets of Chamonix and only one clear idea: food.

Wednesday 5 am. The alarm rang and my

body got into action. Fear, nerves, adrenaline and a ‘God knows’ followed by a ‘I want to make it’. The start of the TDS was awaiting me in Courmayeur.

Upon getting to Courmayeur I had good feelings. I was among the favourites. I felt overwhelmed. There were renowned athletes around me. I greeted them and placed myself next to my reference and teammate. The music started, the cheering began and the concentration increased. One thing I knew for sure: my goal was to see my daughters on arrival and to achieve that I would have to use my head. I thought: ‘from less to more, from less to more’, ‘eat despite not being hungry’, ‘drink despite not being thirsty’ and I repeated it to myself over and over again.


I got to half-race and came across the first assistance checkpoint. I knew that I had to eat, and forced myself to do so. I had some rice, drank a little to hydrate, changed my T-shirt, kissed my wife and daughters and I was on the run again. In the second half of the race I was already among the top 10. I felt good. That was the most technical part of the race but the route was familiar because I had run the Ultra in Beaufortain the previous year. The scenery was amazing, the slopes too.

I got to Les Contamines as it was getting dark. I felt in good spirits because I was advancing positions. My girls showed me some drawings they had done to encourage me. I kept encountering mates from Girona at the checkpoints who kept telling me: “it’s nearly over”, “you’ve made it”.

I got to Les Houches. It was the last

checkpoint; there were only 8 km ahead. I felt motivated, comfortable, agile, running at a good pace, or that’s what I thought. I grabbed a can of coke and ran off. I wanted to secure my position.

And finally the best part of the season arrived. After 16 hours and 23 minutes, I crossed the finishing line in 7th position. It’s that fine line that separates all the months of effort, from a last racing minute. The entrance to Chamonix is a prize in itself. It’s my reward. It’s a dream come true. But then, the days go by, and after assimilating what had happened, I came to the conclusion that “my reward” and “my dream” had been the result of teamwork. A million thanks to you all!

David Coma 7ºth in the rankings

“My reward and my dream are only a result of teamwork”


THIS IS HOW IOLANDA LLADÓ LIVED THE OCC

On Saturday August 25th, I was lucky to be able to run the OCC (Osieres-Champex-Chamonix) in the Montblanc massif. It is considered a Medium Ultra Trail, with a distance of 53 km and 3,300 meters D+.

While waiting for the start, I experienced a mixture of excitement and nervousness, as I had never taken part in a race longer than 30 km before.

The first ascent, past Osieres, meant a huge mental challenge, as it required both great intensity and physical condition and that made me doubtful, at some stage, whether I would be able to finish the race or not. When I reached the top after such an effort, I felt overwhelmed by the beauty of the view.

Running alongside other participants was helpful, especially on certain stretches, as their company made the struggle much more entertaining and occupied my mind with pleasant conversation.


At 5 km from Chamonix, I remembered hearing the organizers encouraging the arrival over the PA. It was then that I felt an indescribable feeling within, as if a superior force was pushing me to make the last effort.

People were cheering. I understood that all that effort and previous training had been worth it. I had finally reached Chamonix.

I finished in position 225 in the rankings

(1,200 runners), which encouraged me to start training for an upcoming challenge.

I recommend this race for its beauty, the support of the fans and its good organization.

Iolanda Lladó

Photographs of The North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, © Núria Padrós


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HUNCH IS BACK TOUR FOR THE ALPS

The Hunchback Club members gathered to go on a five-day cycling holiday in the south of France and the Alps, riding about 470 kilometres daily, with an added altitude difference of 12,951 metres.


August 1st and a Friday for us: the beginning of our particular tour through southern France and the Alps. We started off in the centre of Barcelona, where the whole group was summoned to set out for Meyrueis. There, we came across the first difficulty of the tour, and it wasn’t a deadly ramp of double-digit percentages, Pau and Marcel simply could not fix the bike rack to one of the vehicles of the caravan. We started the journey without the bike rack and our bikes were stuffed inside the van, just like pieces from a Tetris game.

After a five-hour ride under pouring rain, we reached Meyrueis. It was a small town in the Cevennes and it was the beginning of the first stage, in which we planned to crown

Mont Aigoual. We learnt about it thanks to cyclist Tim Krabbé’s book. During the first stage, we rode about 80 kilometres of the route described in his book. The morning of the first stage was grey but with no rain. So, after wandering around to find the correct direction of the track, we started the first stage through lush fir forests and by the distinctive Cevennes planes. After a few kilometres, the rain showed up and became our companion throughout the stage. The highpoint of the stage was when we got to the observatory on Mont Aigoual, which was shrouded in fog. There we regrouped and, after a rapid descent, we arrived in Meyrueis, where we had a pizza and the due post-stage chat, after 76 km and 1,456m D+.


The second stage began in Bourg d’Oisians, a town with an intense biking atmosphere, which greeted us with heavy rain after a long journey from Meyrueis. Although when we arrived at Bourg d’Oisians it was pouring with rain, the day dawned with no rain. The second stage started when we fled from breakfast at the ominous motel where we had spent the night, to enjoy some French pastry in Bourg d’Oisians. After breakfast and a visit to the bike shop next to the cafe, we had to pay a visit to the garage. The stage started with us riding to reach the

top of La Sarenne via Alpe d’Huez. With the taste of pains au chocolat still fresh in our mouths, we faced the indigestible ascent of Alpe d’Huez, with its first kilometres of double-digit slopes to then start counting each one of its bends. The day dawned with no rain, but wet and foggy; that surely intimidated the mass of people on bikes and other wheeled objects that often queue in procession towards this mythical summit of cycling. Once at Alpe d’Huez ski resort, we continued climbing towards the summit of Sarenne, where we found shelter and could


recover strength. We descended to Clavans-en-Haut-Oisans and realised how harsh and beautiful this side of the Sarenne was. The descent ended in Le Freney d’Oisans.Paco, who had devised the itinerary of the various stages, sent us along a beautiful alternative route to return to Bourg d’Oisans, which went down a small road located on top of the valley, and ran almost parallel to the main road. Once in Bourg d’Oisans, we went back to l’Alpe d’Huez along the bends but, this time, via Villard-Reculas, a less known route to reach Huez, but just as beautiful, where I received the visit of Moinsieur Mazó. We ended the second stage with a good

meal and a post-stage chat after having ridden 103 km. The second day ended with us enjoying a drive up to Col Du Glandon on the way to Saint Jean de Maurienne, and observing what awaited us the next day.

The third stage began in Saint Jean de Maurienne, where we spent the night in the best hotel of the trip, the Saint Georges Hotel. The Glandon mountain pass starts in the town of Saint-Avre and, from there, we rode the first kilometres surrounded by a lush forest which provided us with precious shade on a bright sunny day. Before getting to La Perrière campsite and past the village


of Saint-Colomban-des-Villards, we reached an area where the forest began to thin and we started to endure the first slopes of double-digit percentages. Going past the campsite and an inhospitable football field, the forest disappeared and we pedalled through a beautiful valley surrounded by an alpine meadow. The last few kilometres were the toughest stretch, with slopes of 10% average but also the most beautiful, where we gained height at every bend and we could also enjoy a beautiful view of the valley. In my humble opinion, this was the most beautiful climb of the whole trip. Upon

crowning the Col du Glandon, we went to Croix de Fer, located a few kilometres away from Col du Glandon. From Croix de Fer we headed for the last climb of the day, the Toussire, a ski resort the descent after which, took us back to Saint Jean de Maurienne. We finished the second alpine stage, third stage of the trip, with 98 km and 2,886 mD+ altitude difference.

On the fourth day, third in the Alps, we started off in Barcelonette, where we had arrived after a brief visit to the Italian Piemonte through the Frejus tunnel. Marcel


Zamora alongside Josetxo, who were training for the Embrunman, joined us on this third alpine stage and stayed with us for the rest of the trip. The third alpine stage consisted of reaching the summit of La Bonnette via its two sides. We started the day by climbing up to Bonnette via Jausiers; we faced a 22 kilometres climb that was to end at over 2,800 meters (the highest paved road in Europe). The ascent went through beautiful forested landscapes until we reached an altitude of about 2,000 meters, where the vegetation left us to give way to stony-looking valleys. From there, we had to keep climbing up meters while riding

past abandoned military fortifications and the occasional abandoned bunker. When we had caught sight of the mountain pass and noticed the road gradient was favourable, a final surprise hit us: the last meters to the mountain pass were a wall of over 10% altitude difference.

Once regrouped, we descended to Saint-Étienne-de-Tinné, where we had a small snack and began the second ascent to La Bonnette. This second climb was longer and we started it at a higher altitude than that of Jausiers, so that we thought it would be easier. Still, we were cautious and started at

“A climb to the Bonnette viaJausiers, the highest paved road in Europe”


a slow pace enjoying some nice chats. There was less vegetation on this side and we rode mostly among fields and stones. Half way up the climb, we rode past an abandoned village, Le blockhaus des Fourches. Once again we had to face the last few metres on really tough slopes and we finally crowned La Bonnette for the second time, after which came a long, fast descent to Barcelonette. WE finished the third alpine stage -fourth in the trip- with 118 km and 3,426 mD+ altitude difference.

The fifth stage involved crowning Mont Ventoux, the Giant of Provence. To do so, we

stayed the night in Malaucène, where we arrived after a long and beautiful journey through inland Provence. The route of the last day consisted of a tour along beautiful Provence, reaching the top of Suzette, Col de la Roque or Col de la Madeleine to get to the foot of Mont Ventoux in Bedoin. We stopped in Bedoin to get some water and there we noticed the huge number of cyclists and people carrying a bicycle queuing in procession to crown Mont Ventoux. One could tell it was August for the ascent route was crowded with bikes and assistance cars. We rode the first kilometres at a gentle pace, grouped up and chatting. When we


came across the first ramps upon entering a pine forest, the group split up and each one of us rode at their own pace. These ramps went on for nearly seven kilometres, along which, the slope percentage was rarely lower than 9%. This part of Mont Ventoux was really tough, since there were no rest areas and, although we could enjoy the shadows provided by the vegetation, we were not able to enjoy the altitude difference gained with the kilometres because we had to carry on pedalling. After a 15-kilometres ascent, we reached Chalet Reynard. From there we could catch sight of the mythical moon postcard of Mont Ventoux, with its antenna at the top. There were still seven kilometres to go, where the slopes were more bearable, but the fatigue on us was evident. Finally, we completed the 23 kilometres up to the Giant of Provence, with its 1,900 meters. At the summit there were so many people as on a market day, some of them really excited about the challenge achieved and some others completely wrecked. We took the due group photograph, descended faster than ever before and had a tasty piadina in Malaucène. The last stage of the trip ended after 74 km and 2,276 mD+ altitude difference.

From Malaucène, Marcel, Pau, Joan, Paul, Paco, Carles, Roc, Albert and myself, Rafi. We returned to Barcelona having enjoyed some great cycling holidays and wondering where our next tour is going to be.

Rafael

Photographs by Marcel Batlle“We finally crowned the 23 km of the Provence giant, which is 1,900m high”


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TOR DES GÉANTS: “UN LUNGO VIAGGIO”

Albert Herrero decided that the time had come to take part in Tor Des Géants as part of his personal project 7 Ultras 7 Continents: running 7 different ultra distance races in 7 continents, with the support of Lleida Provincial Council.


I discovered this race in 2010 when its first edition took place. Ever since, every second week in September I have spent hours glued to my computer following the developments of hundreds of brave athletes embarked on the adventure of running 330 km with a total climb of 24,000 meters across the Aosta Valley (Italian Alps), and watching how they manage the effort, food and, especially, sleep.

After months of preparation and weeks of anxiety and nerves, it’s finally 10 am on Sunday, 7th September in the main square in Courmayeur. With goose bumps accompanied by the overwhelming sound of the Pirates of the Caribbean, the starting signal goes off and we set off through the streets of Courmayeur, eager to set our legs

free. The weather is kind to us, it’s a lovely day and we can enjoy the beautiful views as we climb up the Col d’Arp, the first struggle of this crossing. I try to think of what lies ahead and not get carried away by the tremendously fast pace at which the race has begun.

After the first checkpoint at La Thuile, things calm down a bit and I start to find my pace and begin to feel good sensations that lead me to gain several positions and settle between positions 15 and 20. The junction of two mountain passes, Paso Alto and Col de Crossatia, leads to the Valgrisenche Valley, where the first life base is located. A special feature of this race is that, in addition to the numerous check points or shelters in villages along the route, there are six life


bases that are stocked with a greater range of supplies, with more variety of food and places where you can stop to sleep at any time and for as long as you need (in shelters, stops can be for a maximum of two hours). Besides, all runners will have their own bags -which they will have previously prepared- delivered to the life bases and transferred between the six bases along the route. I reach Valgrisenche (km 48) with the feeling of having controlled my pace well but dying to devour a plate of macaroni to help me cope well with the first night.

The second stage of the race begins with the ascent to Col Fenetre. This race is so international that I find myself running alongside a Serbian guy. We chat about our past experiences while we admire the spectacular reddish hue of the mountain, under a beautiful sunset. A good way to start the evening, during which we will have to

face climbing up two colossal mountains over 3,000 meters high, Col d’Entrelor (3,007m) and Col Loson (3,299m). After running past Rhemes-Notre Dame, I face the first tough ascent feeling strong and in good spirits, and that leads me to advance further positions and reach Eaux Rousses 12th. However, a never-ending ascent of over 1,600m to the second mountain pass, totally turns the positive dynamics I felt the race was having, upside down. Without previous warning, the last 400-meter climb in the increasing cold and lack of oxygen –as is always the case at 3,000m-, wear me out and I reach the top completely exhausted. My stomach rebels against such a demanding effort and decides to expel part of what I ingested in the previous checkpoint. The feeling of crisis when I have not even run a third of the race makes me feel really worried, but this is a goal I had set myself many months ago, and an idea I have had


for several years. If problems arise, I’ll simply have to solve them. I don’t want the idea of a possible withdrawal to start going through my mind.

Although I had not planned to stop to sleep so soon, I decide to invest an hours break in Vittorio Sella Refuge, 4 km away. My stomach hardly lets me sleep, but, at least, it starts to stabilize a little and I run down to Cogne, where the second life base is (km 102), in the first morning light. I take my time to eat a bowl of macaroni that will help me to go back to a dynamic of proper nutrition, and set off for the third stage, which will take me up Donnas with renewed vigour. Over the following stretch –a gentle climb- my stomach gets back into shape. After passing through the Col Fenestre di Champorcher, I feel able to run down -at a relatively good pace- the 30 km-descent full of hidden ledges, that leads me to Donnas, third life base and lowest race point (km 148, 330m).

After taking a break to keep up the eating, I go down a road between vineyards, which leads to the dreaded climb to Refugio Coda, at 1,600 meters in altitude. An Italian guy and I face it together but, shortly before reaching the shelter, a sleep attack makes me slow my pace down. As in Formula 1 racing, it’s time to go to boxes and change tyres, so I tell my mate I’ll stop there to sleep for a couple of hours. This rest helps me to recover and I start the technical stretch ahead with renewed agility. The following 20 km take me to the village of Niel and the rain makes its first formal appearance, which reminds me that wet ground is not my thing. After that short period of tension, I appreciate the obligatory bowl of macaroni and, in the first lights on Tuesday, I overcome the climb to Col de Lasoney, after which I descend through some bucolic meadows to the town of Gressoney (km 200), where the fourth life base is.

I’m eating my tenth bowl of macaroni while I’m told the news that Francesca Canepa, winner of the last two editions, has been disqualified for skipping a checkpoint. Such confusing rumours serve, at least, to keep my mind busy


during the following ascent to Col Pinter, with an internal debate on regulation and ethics in racing. It starts to rain again and so I’m forced to concentrate hard during the next descent. Fatigue is increasing and it encourages me to take a 20-minute nap in Saint Jacques, before facing the next ascent to Col de Nana. They serve me with just enough to be strong enough to leave the checkpoint and not to go much further. The weather is rainy, the terrain tough and, during the following descent, my left foot starts to feel so sore that the pain becomes unbearable. Adding the tension I feel for the wet terrain to all the aforementioned, upon reaching Valtournenche (fifth life base life, km 236) I have a feeling of utter defeat. I take off my shoe and call for a physiotherapist, as I start to eat a new pasta dish. I can barely walk to the stretcher... I cannot imagine how I’ll be able to run the remaining 100

kilometres. The physiotherapist massages the area in pain and puts some ice on it. With this tied to my foot, I lie down to sleep for two hours, hoping that some magical power will soothe the pain.

When I stand up after the break, I notice the pain has not gone completely but has diminished a bit and I can walk. Encouraged by my MP3 music, I set off for the next stretch with renewed hope, during what will be my third night running. It’s a pretty legbreaking stretch, where I run alongside an Italian who is accompanied by his nephew, which is a considerable help in times of sleep and an example of the unequal conditions the different participants face in this race. The night goes by at a decreasing pace and stopping for a short nap until, fortunately, daylight shows up to renew my energy to reach Oyace. An

“Fatigue is increasing and calls for a 20-minute nap”


energetic lasagne pays its tribute and helps me to start the climb to Col forces Brison, the penultimate ascent of the race. The obsession to sleep for an hour to allow me to get to the end of the race, leads me to stop in a methacrylate booth in the sun, next to a checkpoint. Big mistake, because it’s boiling hot in there and I end up completely dehydrated. After the incident, I descend toward Ollomont (sixth and final life basis) wanting to eat, drink and restore the energies lost on that “rest”.

Fortunately, a last bowl of macaroni gets me back on the right track and I manage to overcome the Col de Champillon, with

evening lights in the background and spectacular views of Mont Blanc. I feel that nothing can spoil it now. After three bowls of broth at Saint Rhemy, I get ready to face the dreaded Col de Malatra to put an end to this adventure. The night returns to show me the harsh reality and surprises me with a new, and devastating, sleep attack. I see a barn full of cows and think of the possibility of sleeping in there for a while, but the barking of dogs reminds me that I am not welcome. I carry on as far as shelter Frassati and there I “enjoy” an hour of sleep that returns enough strength to allow me to overcome the terrible and tough last 400 meter climb to the mountain pass. Upon reaching it, I

“Upon reaching the opening, I switched off the forehead light and watched the Mont Blanc in the moonlight”


switch off the front light and watch Mont Blanc in the moonlight. A magical moment, with satisfaction that the target is already within reach.

The descent to Refugio Bonatti is a fight against sleep during which I force myself to talk out loud to keep my mind active. I dream of being able to lie down in bed without feeling I have to get up in a while to keep walking. Fortunately, the views on the right over Mont Blanc and the Grandes Jorasses are amazing, only surpassed in excitement

by the sight of the lights of Courmayeur, when I get to Refugio Bertone. In the last descent, an Italian and his mate overtake me, but I don’t care.

I finish the race in 17th position, after almost 93 hours of racing, but nothing will deprive me from enjoying the end of this adventure and the sense of satisfaction achieved by crossing the finishing line.

Albert Herrero


TRANSALPINE-RUN NO PAIN, NO GAIN!

The mixed team, formed by Emma Roca and Gerard Morales, (Team Buff) were winners of the 10th edition of the Gore-Tex Transalpine-Run. In a podium position in the Men category were also David López Castán and Alfredo Gil (Team La Sportiva-Multipower). Here isthe account of their experiences, stage by stage.


THIS IS EMMA ROCA’S STORY

350 teams from 46 different countries were there this year. The Transalpine-Run has become a legendary stage race. For a long time, organizers had been trying the route on a mountain bike and in 2005 they tried it on foot. From its very beginning, it has been a special race, with a large social factor among teams and runners; there are teams of men, women, masters men, mixed teams, mixed or senior masters men, all running together for 8 days.

In this edition I took part together with Gerard Morales (Blacky), also part of the Buff team, in the category of mixed team.

Crossing a small part of the Alps through Germany, Austria and Italy allowed us to enjoy stunning scenery with mountain

streams and waterfalls that created a unique soundscape. Although this was the even year edition, and soit was mostly a race for running and it was a less alpine race, we crossed snowy mountains and trails full of rocks, moss, roots and many mushrooms.

Stage 1: Ruhpolding-St.Johann: 48,7 km, 1540 mD+

Ruhpolding, the village where we set off from, belongs to the Bavarian Alps near Salzburg and Munich. It’s located in a valley which protectsit from cold winds and avoids fog formation so it enjoys a very mild climate. This region is full of lakes and is known as “Little Canada.”

Gerard and I started at a progressive pace, without great expectations but, at the same time,without slowing our pace. From the


beginning, we wondered if the whole race length would be on track and asphalt, as we were running fast and there were no technical stretches. When we reached the mountain, after more than 20 km, we encountered the first technical descent and there we overtook the two teams who had been well ahead of us in the first 3h, the French of Garmin Adventure and the Swissof Orthomol Sport-running Team. The first thought I had was that they were not good at descents and therefore, this would be an advantage for us in later stages on technical trails. And so it was! But on plains and slopes they turned out to be faster and we had to struggle and bite our teeth.

At the end of this stage my left knee had been stiff; I began to feel it at km 30 and the pain gradually intensified. When it cooled

down, I couldn’t walk; worried, I called a doctor. Friction between the condrio-femoral and the fascia lata when running on hard ground for too long, as we had just done, caused it to swell. I also thought that not getting enough rest since Leadville ultra had something to do with it. So,I could do nothing else but live with the pain and hold on as much as I could during the 7 remaining stages.

There was something for you to eat after completing each stage, and our bags were ready, either on a camp set up by the organizers or in hotels that had been booked for those who had asked for one.

Pasta party was each evening from 18pm, and we would get a pasta dish, soup, bread and some dessert; It was not abundant

“Blacky helped me like a real champion in all ascents and false plains”


and protein was non-existent, but we were starving and would devour unceremoniously everything there was. Too often the venue for dinner was far from where we had to go to rest and that made afternoons hard to cope with and arduous journeys and logistics without much time to relax.

But if you like running and want to run a spectacular stage race, this is the price you have to pay.

Stage 2: St. Johann-Neukirchen: 49,2 km, 1,820 mD +

We keptrunning at our pace. The moment I set off, I wasn’t at all sure I’d be able to run; I was so nervous I “freaked out.” Luckily the knee warmed up and allowed me to keep running at a good pace; we placed ourselves ahead of the leading teams, and finally came first again.

The time difference with the other teams (just a few minutes) increased every day; that was increasing distances among us but it was not a guarantee at all. Stages were so long and technical we could easily put our foot in it, lose all our advantage and be forced to abandon any day. Gerard and I were well aware of that; we knew that we would be facing a daily fight, that there was no roomto relax. Inwardly, I felt this Transalpine was becoming harder than I had expected and, with the knee injury,I foresaw I was going to suffer... A lot.

Hohe Tauern National Park in the typical Tyrolean village of Neukirchen is the ideal place for hiking or mountain biking, with over 800 km of mountain bike routes. The rain stayed with us, snow reached low levels and so the organizers had to resort to plan C for the route the following day: a shortened


stage, starting and finishing in the same village, Neukirchen.

Pasta party was in the bar of the ski resort, after having walked a good distance and having had to travel on a cable cabin for 20 minutes.

Stage 3: Neukirchen-Neukirchen: 29 km, 1,500mD+

Due to the bad weather that had been following us for the last three days, there were last minute changes to the stage and, instead of going all the way to Prettau, we had to run a circular route around the area. To our surprise, there were hardly any tracks or asphalted trails, and although we could enjoy stunning paths and forests, we were unableto get a moment to relax because the forestry ways were leg-breakingly hard.

We were able to keep the 1st position, but at a feverish pace. I, who like the pace to be

long and gentle, suffered quite a lot; Blacky helped me tremendously on every ascent and on false plains.

After completing the stage, we soaked up to the waist in the village fountain. It was great and the pain in my knee gave me a bit of a rest. The surprise was the over 3h 30min transfer -by car or bus-to reach Prettau, the village we would set off from the next day. This journey wore everyone out and our legs could not recover as we would have liked, so everyone felt much more tired than expected the following day.

Stage 4: Prettau-Sand in Taufers: 31,5 km, 1,800 mD+

This stage, starting in Austria and reaching Italy, was the one that made us appreciate the high mountains like never before, going through dream forests and breath taking passes. We experienced snow, wind and cold.

“After all the suffering and the sweaty work done, we could not afford to lose”


From the beginning, we ran with the French team in 2nd place, who were keeping a great pace on the climb, but on the technical downhill trail with snow, mud and roots, we managed to put a distance among us and them that would become crucial to get back infront.

The knee and the muscles were holding on.I felt a bit empty and withnot much energy on the climb. Yet, everything seemed easy running alongside Gerard. His drive and unwavering support were great. At the end of the 4th stage we were ahead by 26 minutes; it was not much but we were gradually getting an edge,after a great deal of sweating.

Prettau is one of the deepest inland villages in the Ahrntal Valley, as picturesque as those visited on previous stages and famous for its mining tradition and crafts.

But our legs were not thinking about sightseeing the villages on the way, so

the first thing we did upon getting to the hotel was to take our bags to the room, have a shower, nibble some food and rest as much as we could with our legs up. Our accommodation was far from the arrival and we needed transport to get there. Opposite I saw a river with freezing water and I decided to soak my legs in it for about 10 minutes, which seemed eternal, but served to deflate and recover as much as possible, in face of the bloody vertical stage which lay ahead of us the next day. I knew a rather short uphill only stage would not favour us, yet it would serve us to be able to rest for the remaining hours of the day to face the last three stages with more guarantees.

Stage 5: Vertical Km Speikboden: 6,4 km, 1,075 mD +

Sand in Taufers, located between 865m and 1,600m (Rein), has a population of 5,000 inhabitants. It is surrounded by striking mountains in Tyrol and the ski slopes surrounding it were the scenarioof the


5th stage (new this year); it was short and tough, and we were meant to climb up a trail that cut the main access road to the resort. As my knee was still hurting, it wasn’t warming up and it would have been very painful to start the stage with no warm up whatsoever, coach Leo asked me toget hold of a stationary bike before heading out to warm up both the muscles andthe knee. So there I was, walking into the hotels nearby asking for agym and looking for a bike, or directly going down to the basement and investigating... From that day onwards, I managed to find a bike in every town.

The Vertical Kilometre was as tough as I expected, a 6 km-long climb 1,000 mD+ for a diesel engine like me... But Blacky helped me from start to finish, and we tried not to fade rhythm, we were able tosave some of our advantage and we only gave away 5 minutes to the French, who were second. This stage was so different from the rest

that I hoped nothing would change. We had to carry on and save up every bit of energy we had as and there were still three decisive stages to go. And so they were.

Upon completing the vertical kilometre, my lactic acid was at 8,7mmol/l, whereas in previous stages it was between 2 and 3. I had squeezed my muscles, not pushing them to their limit, but once more sweating blood.

The return to the hotel was on the cable cabin and, after, hitch hiking and limping because of my knee. I was feeling a bit down for having lost those 5 minutes, but at the same time I was convinced I had done the right thing not wearing myself out too much. After such a sprint I had to recover, get rid of the lactic acid and regenerate the muscles. The first hour post race is very important to fill carbohydrate deposits and re-gain the necessary amino acids to rebuild damaged proteins.


Stage 6: Sand in Taufers-St.Vigil: 38,5 km, 2,290 mD+

How tough was that stage! We headed off with the turbo engine on, not to giveany chances to the second classified (who had “stolen” 5 minutes from us the day before). Luckily, we could warm up on the first 4 km to face the first steep 600m climb, along a narrow path full of pine needles and roots. On the descent, I felt I needed a few minutes to accustom the legs, but soon after we were running fast enough to overtake people who could never catch up with us. From the very start, we got in the lead position but the others were not very far behind us, so, under no circumstances, could we relax. Then came a stretch of about 10 km through a track and asphalted road, passing through large towns such as Brunico. I was already at my limit, losing my reflexes, running at a high pace and alongside Gerard, who wasn’t giving in but pushing and constantly demanding and encouraging.

At km the pudding endedand then came the

7 km 1,500m+ climb upwhich, compared to the Vertical Kilometre of the previous day, was a piece of cake!

We kept on at a high pace, giving the best of ourselves and Gerard helping at all times. On the summit, nearly melted, we resolved to try and regain time over the long descent ahead of us. 5 km to the end, we saw theywere further away behind us. We didn’t slow down, all my body hurt and, from the start, my abductor muscle (the one in the leg opposite the injured knee) was in pain. I was worried it would not spoil it completely on the 5 km of asphalted road and I pressed my teeth hard and also closed my eyes sometimes. Howhard that was!

Tears of pain and of satisfaction for being able to control the suffering until the end, ran down my face when we crossed the finishing line as winners of the stage. I was swearing for having to run so fast, but Gerard was blunt: “If we can reduce 5 seconds, we won’t make it 3. At full speed until the end.” That caused some tension


among us, which eventually eased after having a shower and eating. Physical and psychological fatigue flowed everywhere.

Stage 7: St.Vigil-Niederdorf: 41,8 km, 1,950 mD+

St.Vigil/Enneberg is located at the entrance of the Enneberger valley, a side valley of Val Badia, in the heart of the Dolomites South Tyrol, with over a thousand years of history.

We ran this stage with a different philosophy in mind. We knew the second classified were over 30 minutes behind and therefore, unless there was a serious fading, there was no need to suffer. We set off behind the French of Garmin, controlling our pace and not letting them run off. The first 14 km were pretty rough because they did not drop their pace and we did not let them break away.

But shortly after the first checkpoint, when the slope became steeper, Gerard and I took on a steady pace and,soon after,we placed ourselves a few minutes ahead. Only when having this surplus could we run a more relaxed race, enjoying the stunning alpine scenery, despite the fact that fog banks and some rain sometimes blocked the view. Some stretches on the hills were sheer and beautiful, with chains to hold on to and large blocks of granite. On the technical descents, Gerard and I kept saying: “let us not relax, but let us not risk it. Let’s be safe.”

Over the last 5 km, mostly on asphalt, we followed at a steady pace, not wearing away and just like my knee, isquio or abductor muscle; still enduring. I enjoyed arriving in good condition, and not suffering like the day before which knocked me down.


The next day there was “only” one 33 km stage to go, and after having won more than 30 minutes fromthe seconds classified in one stage, our spirits reached the clouds. However, my legs cried of pain.

Stage 8: Niederdorf-Sexten: 33,4 km, 1,270 mD+

It was the last one of 8 racing days, we knew we had to be cautious and not risk it. After all the sweat and suffering on the previous 7 days,we could not afford to lose. The French team were seriously down hearted as they had lost 39 minutes the day before and were fearing their performance could not end well; the girl’s ankle and knee were hurting. But we carried on with our strategy, running behind them from the start and overseeing them. We quickly realized they were not going at a good pace and we easily placed ourselves on the lead.

Half an hour after the start, the Swiss team who were 4th in the rankings and the German Sport Woly Salomon Team with Julia Böttger darted past us like rockets; they were striving for podium position and the difference among them was of only 10 minutes.

In my opinion, this was the most beautiful stage of all, as I enjoyed seeing the sun for the first time and could appreciate all the 3 Cime di Lavaredo within reach.

At the end of the last climb, we caught up with the German team and we placed ourselves second. The last descent was a bit technical, and then it all became smoother and we could enjoya well-deserved end by winning a race laboured from the first to the last day. The French of Garmin lost a great deal of minutes and were left out of podium position coming fourth and the Germans,with Julia in the team, came third, just one minute behind the Swiss team, who finally finished second in the rankings.

Emma Roca


THIS IS DAVID LOPEZ CASTAN’S STORY

At the end of 2013 an idea came up that, at first, was a mere proposal, but began to take shape over the months. My friend and teammate in La Sportiva-Multipower Alfredo Gil and I set ourselves a very ambitious target by the end of the year:to run the TAR together. La Sportiva quickly supported us and we established it as a priority target on the 2014 calendar.

The season went by quickly and August arrived without even realizing it. We began to prepare such a race. We got together and organized everything: materials, logistics and an endless list of other things.

Training sessions were great and both had had a good season, achieving several podium positions in national and international races. This boosted our confidence, we felt strong enough and all we needed to do was prove it.

On Thursday we flew to Munich and, after a few hours on the train, we arrived in Ruhpolding, a lovely town in Germany, where it would all begin.

On Friday, after a mild training sessionto warm up the legs and sweat a little, we went to pick up the dorsal numbers. In the afternoon, we attended the briefing and the pasta party, getting into the atmosphere. We chatted with other Spaniards there,


exchanging impressions and laughing, but also a little nervous. We got into bed early. The organization and deployment of this race are impressive, as every detail is perfectly cared for. I have never seen anything like it in any event. In 2011 I had the opportunity to race here along with my teammate Miguel Caballero, where we achieved victory (but on the other version of the race). In odd years the race is shorter, more technical and with greater altitude difference; and in even years, like this one, it is longer, less technical and with less altitude difference. I knew about theins and outs of this race and, perhaps, that is why I’m repeating the experience, for the good taste it left on me.

The idea was to fight for the victory. Considering our fitness, we could make it. On the first stage of 48 km, I realized that this year we would have to run (and a lot!). The other two stages were 43 and 50 km long, also on very flat terrain along tracks and roads; nothing like when I ran the race in 2011. We lost several minutes behind

some Swedes and Germans, but the strategy was not to push hard in the early stages and to reserve some strength for the second half of the race.

So the days passed. We gave much importance to daily recovery; we followed everything to the letter. After each stage, the routine was: bathing our legs in a river, taking the Multipower Recharge, eating well and, in the hotel, after a good massage, having a short, regenerating nap. In the afternoon, some stretching and an early dinner, during whichthere was a daily awards ceremony, the technical briefing of each stage and the viewing of photos and videos of the day. It was fun. Also, being a linear race, which makes it very unique and different, allows you to see countless landscapes, mountains, villages and, of course, its distinctive soundtrack Keep On Running.I simply love it!

I want to thank the outstanding work of Sommerkind, the company that La Sportiva

“Those were days of great camaraderie and complicity”


hired for us during those days. Carmel, the girl in charge, took care of all the logistics, drove us to the start and back from the finish on each stage. She also took us to the pasta party and to fantastic 4* hotels near the start, taking care of even the smallest detail. We always had food and drink in the room, information, schedules, massages, etc. Great! Thanks a million!

After the middle of the race, the Swedes (who were then in lead position in the rankings) were forced to abandon because one of them got injured. Their stage pace was frenzy and we knew that could take its toll on them. We only had the Germans

ahead of us and, whom we managed to beat on the VK in the 5th stage, demoralizing them by placing ourselves only 20’ behind.

The strategy seemed to be working. When we reached the supposedly more alpine stages we tried everything. But they were superior and we could not steal from them any minute on any stage. God knows we tried it, both on ascents and descents! But there was no way we could make it, even though we were, supposedly,in better physical shape and stages would become more mountaineering. These stages were also on kilometres and kilometres of track and road, where we could not gain advantage, just the


opposite: getting tired legs as days went by, equalled our strength, but, unfortunately, it was too late.

And positions were maintained thusuntil the end, us achieving second place, but not feeling at all bad about it, as we had done our best and we are proud of it. Although I must confess, being as competitive as we are, that thorn is still there and I wonder if one day we might decide to try to remove it. Of course, running the more technical version.

In short, what I treasure the most is that those were days of great fellowship and complicity, during which we talked about anything and had great laughs. A thousand stories took place, a thousand anecdotes thatwill always remain. Laughter and some

tears are what make this a very special race, both during the race and beyond. They are a collection of sensations that I will never forget.

I would like to thank La Sportiva-Multipower for giving us this opportunity as well asfor their daily support. And, of course, I also want to thank the enthusiasm of so many people we received over the social networks; we would not have made it without them. Although the weather was not good during the race -we suffered from rain, cold and even snow-, we could feel the warmth of all those who supported us in the distance.

David López Castan


87 / SPORTVICIOUSREPORTAJE

7,546M IN ALTITUDE…

Javier Pérez and six of his friends decided to go on an expedition to Muztagh Ata, a peak whose name means “Father of the ice mountains”, located a few kilometres from the border between China and Pakistan.


This summer, sometime between July and August, six friends and I embarked on an expedition to faraway China, with the aim to climb up to the summit of Muztagh Ata, a 7,546m-high peak. Two huge peaks make up the Muztagh Ata massif: one 7,130 meters high and the other 7,546 high, some two kilometres away from each other, which are located in the Kunlun Shan. We travelled via Beijing, departing from Madrid and then flying to Urumqi and eventually getting to Kashgar. We spent two days flying and, on top of that, 6 hours on a bus. Given

the remoteness of the place, this was the fastest, although not the only, way to get to base camp and, thus, have more days to aclimatize, something crucial in this type of high mountains.

I’d like to point out that altitude is, beyond doubt, the main difficulty of this climb. There are no outstanding technical difficulties, only that you must be cautious and use ropes when crossing from camp I to camp II because of cracks. There were 7 members in our expedition and, in the area of the cracks,


we were roped together in two groups of two, and one group of three. Experience at high altitudes and sound training are key to face the rest of the climb and complete it successfully. Some climbers choose to climb this mountain on touring skis, although most do it wearing snowshoes. Except for one member of the expedition, we all climbed up on snowshoes.

Our trip would last 25 days all in all and, when planning the expedition strategy, we foresaw to time it in such a way that we would climb at a very gradual pace, so that

our bodies would adapt well to the altitude and so, we would carry equipment to the higher camps very slowly. The biggest mistake people make when trying to climb these mountains is rushing; wanting to climb faster, not slowing down. Seeing the mountain so seemingly close and not slowing the pace down to climb gradually is usually a fatal error with less experienced climbers, which may, eventually, spoil their ascent.

After the first few days spent linking flights and doing some last minute shopping for our

“After almost twelve hours of activity, we reached the summit at 14:45h”


stay at base camp, we got on a bus, where we sat for 6 hours, and travelled along a rather dreadful, endlessly winding road which was often blocked due to building work of a gigantic dam. The bus ride took us to the last inhabited village, where we spent two nights at an altitude of 3,800 meters. We climbed nearby peaks of 4,000 meters those two days. Then, we climbed up to base camp at 4,500 meters with our belongings carried on camels’ backs, where we spent most of the time doing some gentle hiking, resting, and transporting equipment to advanced Camp I at 5,400 meters and to Camp II, at 6,200 meters.

Base camp is a comfortable place and there we had booked some cooking services as well as a dining tent. The food was very nice

and elaborate but, although we insisted on it not being too spicy, (and the cooks really tried!) it was always really hot. The worst moments due to this spicy food were when we descended to base camp from the summit, with our lips chapped by the cold, and when we had hot meals.

We had some very good, first days at base camp, even feeling warm. Little by little, though, things worsened as the wind began to blow harder. In the highest areas it was very strong and just thinking about the following days ahead prevented us from attempting the summit. We spent a few days watching the weather, worried about the forecasts that announced further and stronger winds coming. Our attempt to reach the summit was in danger.


As days went by, we read on one of the forecasts that the winds would decrease by August 3rd and, after that, things would get worse again. That’s when all the members of the expedition, each one having previously judged the situation, discussed whether to climb up from CIII at 6,800 meters -which meant better probabilities to reach the summit but with the disadvantage of looming wind the next day-, or attempting the summit from CII at 6,200 meters, which would save us one day and where the wind -perhaps and according to forecasts would be mild-, but with the major drawback of a really steep climb, making the climb on summit day much harder. If we did decide to go from CII, we’d have to play all ours cards in just one day, in one go. We decided to do it that way, attack from CII, as we were well aclimatized and had little choice.

It was then, on August 1st, when we decided to head for the summit. Our camps were set up. We climbed up to CI, where we spent the night. The next day, we reached CII (at 6,200 meters), where we spent the second night. The tents were up and ready, so we devoted the afternoon before the attack on the summit to prepare the equipment for the climb the next day, we melted snow, had hot drinks and had something to eat. But, the truth is, at such altitude the stomach closes and allows little food in.

On August 3rd, at 1 a.m., without having slept much, we started to get ready to leave the tents, got dressed, melted some snow and tried to eat something. All the members of the expedition had arranged to meet up outside the tents at 3 a.m. in the morning. At 3:00 sharp, all of us ready, we began our attack on the summit. We began to climb


with temperatures of about 25 degrees below zero. The night was beautiful, clear and starry, and the sight of dawn left us breathless. As we were approaching the summit, the weather began to change, clouds covered the sky and strong winds began to blow Finally, nearly twelve hours later, at 14:45h, we reached the summit. We were exhausted and at 40 degrees below zero, due to the wind. We took some pictures quickly and began to descend. Unfortunately, the wind and the cold did not allow us to enjoy the summit much.

We arrived at CII at 8.30 pm very tired, yet happy. We went into the tents, tried to eat something (which was almost impossible) and fell asleep in the sleeping bags with our clothes on. I fell asleep but woke up for a moment when my tent mate asked me to take off my boots, as I had fallen asleep with them on. It had been 18 hours of activity, and out of the seven members of the expedition, five of us made it to the top. A real shame for the two who didn’t make it, although every mountaineer knows that, on any expedition, the hard work of all members is essential for one, two or all to reach the summit.

The next day, we cleared CII and went down to base camp where, at last, and after 2 days, we started to recover from the effort and began to eat more solid food.

As everything went well and we reached the summit on our first attempt, we spent the remaining days sightseeing in the cities of Urumqi and Beijing. A highly recommendable trip and expedition, ideal for experienced and trained mountaineers who wish to put themselves to the test at high altitudes.

Javier Perez Mountain and ravine guide


http://www.refugiorabadaynavarro.com

http://www.refugiorabadaynavarro.com

Vicente Roig took part in the first edition of the Ultra Sierra Nevada, one of the highest ultra trail races in Europe at 3,300 meters, and its mythical 83 km in length: from the Alhambra in Granada to Sierra Nevada, the summit of the Iberian Peninsula.

ULTRA SIERRA NEVADA, A STUNNING ROUTE


This time I took the opportunity to be with my family and we all travelled together to Granada. On Friday afternoon we picked up the dorsal and got together with Rafa, Rebecca, Mateo and Neus (Rafa’s great support team, who would also be a great help for me). Back at the hotel, I met Borja and Emmanuel, and we arranged to meet up at 1.30 am to go down to the centre of Granada together. I went to bed early, at about 10 pm, but people were partying in the room next door... Eventually I managed to sleep for one hour and then I was up and ready.

The starting signal was at 3 am and I quickly climbed up to the highest part of Dehesa del Generalife. From there, I gazed down at the stunning views of Granada “sleeping” on

one side and, on the other, the few houses of Albaicín lit up. I went through the different check points on up-down terrain up to kilometre 22 in Quentar; 2 hours 40 minutes. By the way, there were local celebrations there and the music was tremendously loud. My pace is very good and my calf held out. After a short ascent and a long climb up to Alto de los Jarales I reached Fuente de la Teja check point; kilometre 31 in 4hours 14min.

From there, the long climb towards Alto de El Calar began, at nearly 2,000 meters. The climb up seemed to take forever, as dawn broke and I began to feel sleepy (I sent my regards to my hotel neighbours). On the descent I started to feel much more awake and alert until reaching Güejar Sierra


checkpoint; 43 km in 6h. I gathered strength and ran uphill along a lengthy track in Barranco de San Juan. I got to Hotel del Duque; 54 km in 7h 30min. The terrain began to get steeper. Climbs are short but very vertical up to Dornajo; 60 km 8h 30min.

From here, there is a stretch of the route where I can run fast before reaching the climb up to the checkpoint junction. I arrived here feeling absolutely done in. Luckily, Rebe, Neus and Mateo, my saviours, showed up and gave me some pasta; I sat down to eat it to recover. I am on my way to Pradollano, Km 74, 11h 8 minutes, but I know the toughest part is ahead and I must pace myself. A steep ascent to Hoya de la Mora, 77 km 12h. Strong, cold winds began to blow. I had to stop to put on my jacket. Less distance to go... I was reaching the highest point, the Veleta at 3,100 meters, 81 km in 13h. There were only about 7 km to the finish in Pradollano. I completed the 89 km 4,900m of ascent and 3,500 meters of descent in 14 hours 8 minutes, 43rd position in the rankings. I’m pleased to see my calf is recovering and that I’m gradually feeling much better.

Many thanks to all those who are supporting me!

As this was the first edition, certain aspects obviously need improving, such as more suitable check points for this type of race. But, all in all, the stunning and perfectly signposted route and the awards ceremony among friends, where we had a wonderful time, is what will remain.

Vicente Roig


http://desafiovicente.com

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SV SPORTVICIOUS November-December 2014

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