UTMB Monistrail 50k

Beautiful scenery, running somewhere new and the challenge and excitement of race on foreign soil.

Aid stations are super efficient and well stocked.

The race organisers changed the start line without advance warning, adding an extra 5km to the race which isn’t a big deal for that distance but did mean my race plan was incorrect and a bit stressful until I was safely through the first 2 cut offs.

Anyone wanting to experience a trail ultra in Europe and explore a new area.

The UTMB races are quite big and taken very seriously by a lot of runners and absolutely worth it for the experience.

Have a race plan and really study the course terrain, elevation and race cut offs.

I took poles which made a difference for me as much of the harder/ longer climbs were earlier in the race and I wanted have a healthy buffer before cut offs.

Definitely practice downhill running on single track and have confidence that you are running your race and people may need to wait to pass you.

Fuel well always, gels are great but no substitute for real food when you need it. Ritz crackers are always good for a salty snack on the move.

The race is on and around the famous Way of Saint Jaques a pilgrim trail, and has a spectacular finish at the cathedral of Le Puy-en-Velay a UNESCO world heritage site.

Before the race I had visions of me running up the 33% gradient cobbles to the cathedral and on to the finish. Not going to lie, had to power hike that part. Absolutely amazing finish!