About talkultra

Ian is a photographer, writer, reviewer and blogger at iancorless.com. Ian is currently travelling the world capturing stories from some of the most iconic ultras on the planet. Ian is also creative director and host of an ultra running podcast called Talk Ultra. The show is available every 2 weeks 'for free' on iTunes and talkultra.com.

The ICEBUG XPERIENCE

Posted on September 5, 2022 by talkultra

I had a weekend off and although I attended a race, this time it was as a client/ runner and not photographer, of course, I did take a camera….

I had been told about ICEBUG XPERIENCE multiple times by my partner Abelone and her friend, Karin. They both get excited about running, exploring and adventures almost continuously, this time though it was different… The talk was all about fun, no pressure, great camping, food, organization and an all-inclusive experience that was for all, any ability and pretty much any age!

So, I had to find out more.

Located in Bohuslän, Sweden. The Icebug Experience West Coast Trail is all based around Ramsvik Stugby & Camping on Ramsvikslandet which is the hub for the weekend. Here there is a restaurant, cabins, camping and fixed spaces for motorhomes or caravans. Located on Sotefjorden and surrounded by water, it’s the perfect location for a weekend.

THE EVENT

“The whole purpose of Icebug Experience Bohuslän is to show that a race can be so much more than a race.”

And I couldn’t agree more.

Quite simply, Icebug have created an event that starts before the start line and goes on long after the finish line. As the name suggests, it is an ‘Xperience’ and one that I only wish I could experience more often.

Consisting of three days, Icebug Xperience offers 3 routes that can be undertaken as a run, a run/ walk or a walk. Start times are 0900, 0915 and 1100 respectively.

While a medal (wooden) is rewarded for completion at the end, the event is much more about experience and memories than results.

Day 1 – 22km 455m+

Day 2 – 30km 603m+

Day 3 – 25.6km 435m+

Start line and finish line is different each day, however, day 1 starts at the race hub and day 3 concludes at the same place, offering an excellent 360-deg journey exploring the very unique surroundings and trails this area has to offer.

Transport is included as part of the race, be this by coach or boat. It’s all seamless, perfectly organized and works with military precession.

Route marking is some of the best I have witnessed with a plethora of red/white Icebug tape strewn throughout the trails no more than 20m apart.

Each day when you cross the line you are rewarded with beverages and a stunning locally sourced vegetarian lunchbox that was exceptional.

KIDS

One key element that makes this event a standout is the kids club. I cannot express how excellent this is. Starting everyday 15-minutes before race departure (either race start or travel departure) a full 3-day itinerary is available to keep little ones happy while parents run.

Who doesn’t like catching crabs? ©iancorless

Look at the schedule below:

The start and the end will be at Ramsvik camping every day at the playground. There will be nine adults responsible for the Kids Camp group, who will split into four groups during some activities. Beside the lunch, the children will also be served fruit and beverages in the morning and afternoon and an ice cream surprise!

The Kids Camp will take place from early morning to 17.00, or until you pick them up upon arrival to Ramsvik.

FRIDAY 2/9 – Excursion Day at Ramsvikslandet

08:30 Welcome to Icebug Xperience-Kidscamp at Ramsvik camping: Get to know each other on the beach in the morning.

09:30 4km/3km/1,5km walk from Ramsvik to Tångevik. Back at Ramsvik beach we will have our lunch over the open fire.

14:00 Back at Ramsvik, opportunity to play beach soccer, beach volleyball and crab fishing.

17:00 Kids Camp close for today.

From 17:00 Kids Camp dinner with parents (for the children staying at Ramsvik).

SATURDAY 3/9 – Nordens Ark day

06:45 Welcome to a new day at Kids Camp, sign in at Ramsvik camping. Drop-in until 09:00.

09:30 Bus transport to the famous zoo Nordens Ark.

11:45 Lunch at the Zoo.

14:30 The bus leave Nordens Ark, back to Ramsvik for further activities at the beach.

17:00 Kids Camp close for today.

From 17:00 Kids Camp dinner with parents (for the children staying at Ramsvik).

SUNDAY 4/9 – Sailing and Kids Race day

07:30 Welcome to a new day at Kids Camp, sign in at Ramsvik camping.

09:30 We take the Zita boat from Ramsvik to Hunnebo/Sotefjorden yacht club. Our leaders are very experienced with teaching children how to sail! If your child has sailed before they will sail in an Optimist on their own. If not, they will sail in slightly bigger boats with a sailing instructor. Your child needs to have swimming skills to sail in the Optimist/boats with instructor. The smaller kids with no swimming skills can try an inflatable boat close to the shore. Please send me an e-mail if your child will not sail/take a ride in the inflatable boat. For those not sailing we will have activities on the pier. Life jacket is off course mandatory. If the weather doesn’t allow sailing, we will stay on land with other activities.

11:30 Lunch at Sotefjorden yacht club

13:00 Leaving Sotefjorden yacht club back to Ramsvik and get ready for the Kids Race!

14:00 Kids Race (1,7K same distance for all kids)

15:00 Medal ceremony

16:00 End of Kids camp for this year

It’s hard to express the insight, thought and attention to detail that Icebug and the team have put together to create such an amazing child experience that keeps everyone happy. It’s often so hard to find time for parents to run when they have children, especially run together. Here, the Icebug Experience breaks new ground and creates a template that I only wish more events would copy.

INCLUSIVITY

Age, gender or ability – everyone welcome ©iancorless

In a time when there is much talk of making events more inclusive and increasing female participation, Icebug once again break new ground.

Not racing is almost encouraged, this I love. Take the time, enjoy the terrain, enjoy the experience and if you wish run, if you’d like to mix it up, walk and run. If either of those are too much, just walk.

It wasn’t only about running… ©iancorless

The weekend was very much a bonding exercise where it was easy to see how work colleagues had tempted co-workers to join them. Running clubs had put teams and groups together and most notably, the presence of women runners was extremely high.

Post-race I checked, the weekend had more female participants than men.

Think about it, why?

I think the answer is clear to see…

Age was not limiter. Speed was not important. What shall we do about the kids(?) was taken away.

Trust me, more events need to be like this.

THE XPERIENCE

I was a client for the Icebug Xperience, I wasn’t working as a photographer, I wasn’t given a free place to help PR. I signed up and soaked up the event.

Arriving Thursday night, we pitched our tent, a nice large three-man Nordisk that would act as our base for the weekend. For reasons of comfort and ease, Abelone and I signed up for the food package which offered buffet breakfast (superb) and dinner. A superb lunch was provided as part of the race.

Kids club was approximately 50-euros per day (+/-) and while I appreciate that this may prove costly for some, it was worth every penny. To see the kids’ bond, play and have the most amazing time put a smile on everyones face. In all honesty, I was tempted to sign up for the kid’s club and miss out on the running, the schedule was so good.

Ramsvik Stugby & Camping was the perfect hub for the weekend located 2.5-hours’ drive from Oslo or roughly 2-hours from Gothenburg. It offers something for all in a hard-to-beat archipelago idyll on the West Coast.

Our weather was wall-to-wall sunshine with warm temperatures, yes, we couldn’t have had it better, especially with the location. The was maybe even more important for the children who played on the beach, went fishing, sailed and had a day at the zoo. But trust me, many an adult jumped into the water post-run to cool off and soak in the atmosphere.

Event village had an Icebug shop and shoe test possibilities ©iancorless

The key to any successful weekend is great organisation and the Icebug Xperience excelled. Everything was like clockwork which made everything so calm and relaxing. There was no worry if a bus would turn up, will the ferry be there? What about breakfast? Where do I drop my child? Everything was clearly communicated, and all happened at the times specified.

The routes offered a great challenge and were superbly marked with a distance marker every 2km’s and either 2 or 3 aid stations.

Day 1 started at Ramsvik race village and ended in the picturesque village of Hunnebostrand.

Day 2 started at Bohus-Malmön and the finish line was at Kungshamn. An interesting route that was split starting with 10km, a ferry (timing stopped) and then a 20km course to the finish and then a bus or boat back to Ramsvik.

Day 3 started in Smögen and concluded at the race village in Ramsvik, a special day that lets you fully experience the Ramsvik rocks.

Three special days that follow the ocean: old fisherman’s villages, heaths, canyons, and a huge amount of red-colored granite rocks. Three stages – three different Xperiences.

CONCLUSION

The process and the journey are what provides the memories for me, and while I fully appreciate racing a clock and others has its place, weekends like Icebug Xperience bring a whole new level of full absorption, not only for the runner but for the family. Nobody is left out here, everyone is looked after, everyone has their own experience and then it all comes together towards the end of the day to share the experience over dinner and whilst hanging out in your chosen accommodation.

There is much to learn from what happens here in Sweden.

The number of female participants. The planning and structure to look after children. The inclusivity of providing an experience for everyone irrespective of age, ability, or gender.

Congratulations Icebug on producing something very special.

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UTMB 2022 with the adidas TERREX #oneteam

Posted on August 29, 2022 by talkultra

I am decompressing.

In the last 4-days I have had around 10-hours broken sleep. That is the reality of working on multiple events during UTMB week.

It all started though the week before, arriving in Chamonix on Thursday to join the adidas TERREX team for a full 10-day UTMB extravaganza. It was my 3^rd time at UTMB with the TERREX team so I was under no illusion of what was ahead – amazing friends, quality time with athletes and crew and once the TDS got underway, little sleep.

On the trails with adidas TERREX team ©iancorless

It’s a privilege and honor to work the TERREX team, I have seen them grow and grow in the sport and the ethos of #oneteam personifies what goes on before, during and after every event. Just look at the finish line footage of Emily Hawgood crossing the line to take 6^th place at UTMB. The whole team was waiting, they surrounded her and unplanned, went into a frenzied bounce fest to celebrate not only an incredible run but an incredible team effort. No other pro-team does this and it’s noted by all the other media… The TERREX team are doing something very special.

You may well say I am biased. And I am not going to deny that I have a professional and working relationship with the brand. However, this is a choice. Working with the team management, the media crew and the athletes is a dream come true and one that is immensely rewarding.

adidas had once again rented multiple chalets and one huge chalet would act as a base for meeting up and all meals. The chalet had three chefs who provided meals for the entire team and in so doing, dietary needs could be looked after and the need to try to find a restaurant in Chamonix was removed. Physios were literally ‘hands-on’ every day from morning and Charlie and Robert managed the day-to-day team plans.

My emphasis pre-racing was to recorded Season 2 of ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ and provide some photo content.

Ruth Croft decided to not race at UTMB after winning Western States ©iancorless

The shows:

UTMB WEEK

UTMB week may well be what you, the fan or follower sees. But as in all these scenarios, the reality for UTMB 2022 started at the conclusion of UTMB 2021. It’s a 12-month process of building and planning.

This time last year, Tom Evans missed UTMB and instead underwent surgery not knowing if he would be able to run professionally again. However, he there and then set the goal to target UTMB 2022 as a main goal and target. He would put all the processes in place to make that happen. And oh my word, look what happened… He completed the podium with an outstanding and awe-inspiring 3^rd place.

But with all the highs, the TERREX team also has lows.

TDS did not go to plan, 4-athletes hovered around the podium for much of the race only have dreams taken away. That is racing. There are no guarantees.

Sabrina Stanley, after meticulously planning and preparing for UTMB had her dream shattered even before the start of UTMB with a positive Covid test. There are no words to help here, just the unity and backing of oneteam.

Down but not out, the team rallied, and OCC turned out to be a stunning race with Sheila Aviles taking victory and Robbie Simpson making the podium.

Toni Mccann placing 5, Martin Dematteis placing 10^th and Kim Schreiber, Jeshurun Small, Dioni Gorla, Deborah Marti and Anna Hahner all having solid runs. The team was back on track.

CCC was up next and it’s fair to say that myself, and the whole TERREX team were quietly confident that Petter Engdahl could produce something. Little did we know then that the Swede who lives in Norway would light the fire of the UTMB.

He blazed a trail that made the competition look on in awe as he not only won the race but set a course record. Abby Hall from the USA once again had a stellar run placing 3.

Remigio Huaman, Stephen Kersch, Taylor Nowlin and Yngvild Kaspersen all brought the three stripes home and, on each occasion, the team was waiting with hugs and applause.

It’s a stressful week for adidas TERREX staff ©iancorless

The big dance, UTMB would conclude the week. The 171km loop through France, Italy, Switzerland and concluding in France has 10,000m of vertical gain, rugged terrain, variable weather and is arguably, the most competitive ultra of the year. This year, the event was off-the-scale with over 2700 participants and goodness knows how many fans and spectators.

The event is now huge! The TERREX team had Pablo Villa, Luis Alberto Hernando, Tom Evans, Emily Hawgood toeing the line and sadly, the omission of Sabrina Stanley due to Covid. It’s with noting here that a listen to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ with Tom Evans provides a great insight not only to the event, but how to prepare for it is a ‘must’ listen. The race, despite a quality line-up was always going to be about Jim Walmsley and Kilian Jornet and for much of the race, this was the story. Jim had the lead, lost it to Kilian and and in-form Mathieu Blanchard. Kilian put the hammer down for the win against Mathieu and behind as Jim faded Tom Evans put his plan in action. He left Zach Miller who he had traded run steps with for many an hour and hunted Jim.

With Jim caught, Toms head went down, all the processes were put in place and the Brit placed 3^rd in the greater ultra in the world! Tears were shed by all… It’s difficult to put into words the emotions of the finish. Tom walked in, somewhat mind-blown about what he was about to achieve, he held hands together, covered his face and then stood stock still and saluted the world. Job done! The TERREX team were in pieces with emotion.

Hours later, Emily Hawgood arrived at Col de Montes, the TERREX team lining the climb to give her one last big push to the finish. Eventually the finish came and a 6^th place. Surrounded by her team, the worlds media were amazed at the unity of the TERREX team as they celebrated en-mass the success of one of their own.

This is the oneteam ethos, victories may be individual, but they are not possible without what goes on behind the scenes. We all had roles, but flexibility is key. Athletes became crew, office workers became car drivers, and everyone became a supporter both in a physical and mental capacity.

Once again, it was a real pleasure to be immersed with the adidas TERREX brand and follow closely the whole process that makes a race and team come together. We use the word family and without a doubt, the TERREX team is family. We are all #unitedbysummits

I spent much of the week with Stefan Durst but a huge thanks to Pfefferminzmich – Rapha, Andy, Yannick, Vinz and Christian.

I have the best job in the world!

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Episode 230 – The Chamonix Tapes – Tom Evans

Posted on August 25, 2022 by talkultra

Welcome to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ an inside look at the adidas Terrex Team during the 2022 UTMB.

Starting on Sunday August 21st and running through to UTMB 2022, there will be a series of podcast releases for your audio pleasure in ‘The Chamonix Tapes.’

In episode 5, we speak with Tom Evans who battled a stressful injury and surgery… A process that started 12-months ago.

” What can I do, how do I control the controllables… Western States is more like a 100km in comparison to UTMB… I can’t begin to imagine how many nights I have spent without a head torch… I Can’t wait for the night… The night is coming, like it or not!”

#oneteam

#unitedbysummits

https://talkultra.libsyn.com/episode-229-the-chamonix-tapes-taylor-nowlin

Show links:

Website HERE

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

iOS HERE

Android HERE

Web player HERE

Libsyn – HERE

Tunein – HERE

Episode 229 – The Chamonix Tapes – Taylor Nowlin

Posted on August 24, 2022 by talkultra

Welcome to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ an inside look at the adidas Terrex Team during the 2022 UTMB.

Starting on Sunday August 21st and running through to UTMB 2022, there will be a series of podcast releases for your audio pleasure in ‘The Chamonix Tapes.’

In episode 4, we speak with Taylor Nowlin who battled a stressful 2020 and 2021 working as a nurse and recovering from Covid to place top-10 at Western States.

“I think the biggest theme in the last year has been scaling back on work so that I could focus on running… I needed to be more of a professional at running.”

#oneteam

#unitedbysummits

Show links:

Website HERE

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

iOS HERE

Android HERE

Web player HERE

Libsyn – HERE

Tunein – HERE

Episode 228 – The Chamonix Tapes – Yngvild Kaspersen

Posted on August 23, 2022 by talkultra

Welcome to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ an inside look at the adidas Terrex Team during the 2022 UTMB.

Starting on Sunday August 21st and running through to UTMB 2022, there will be a series of podcast releases for your audio pleasure in ‘The Chamonix Tapes.’

In episode 3, we speak with Yngvild Kaspersen who has just become a doctor after lengthy study and trying to balance a running career.

“It took me longer than normal to finish Med school… I took longer years so that I could focus in study and running. I wanted to do my education properly but also not miss out on opportunities.”

#oneteam

#unitedbysummits

Show links:

Website HERE

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

iOS HERE

Android HERE

Web player HERE

Libsyn – HERE

Tunein – HERE

Episode 227 – The Chamonix Tapes – Holly Page

Posted on August 22, 2022 by talkultra

Welcome to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ an inside look at the adidas Terrex Team during the 2022 UTMB.

Starting on Sunday August 21st and running through to UTMB 2022, there will be a series of podcast releases for your audio pleasure in ‘The Chamonix Tapes.’

In episode 2, we speak with Holly Page who has been fighting against long term injury.

“I started with an ankle injury in Feb 21… I had hoped to run TDS in 2021 and despite my best efforts, the injury has not gone away… Finally, I am on an upward slope!”

#oneteam

#unitedbysummits

https://talkultra.libsyn.com/episode-226-the-chamonix-tapes-toni-mccann

Show links:

Website HERE

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ITunes HERE

iOS HERE

Android HERE

Web player HERE

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Tunein – HERE

Episode 226 – – The Chamonix Tapes – Toni McCann

Posted on August 21, 2022 by talkultra

Welcome to ‘The Chamonix Tapes’ an inside look at the adidas Terrex Team during the 2022 UTMB.

Starting on Sunday August 21st and running through to UTMB, there will be a daily podcast release for your audio pleasure in The Chamonix Tapes.

In episode 1, we speak with South African and new member to the Terrex team, Toni McCann.

“I am as prepared as I can be… The process has been great. The outcome will happen and whatever that is I can only be happy!”

#oneteam

#unitedbysummits

Show links:

Website HERE

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

iOS HERE

Android HERE

Web player HERE

Libsyn – HERE

Tunein – HERE

Stranda Fjord Trail Race 2022

Posted on August 10, 2022 by talkultra

It was burned in my memory, waiting at Fremste Blåhornet at 0430, daylight was already arriving, but the sun had not risen, there was just a promise of what was to come. The first runner arrived quite literally as the sun peaked over the mountains and a glow of orange started to come illuminating Stranda Fjord, the mountains ahead and the runner. It was one of ‘those’ days you wish for as a runner and photographer.

The 2021 Stranda Fjord Trail Race and, the 100km event was truly magical. Norway, Stranda, Slogen and the whole route has never looked so good.

Jump ahead one year and the 2022 edition was a completely different story. Ahead of race day, the weather forecast was greatly discussed both by runner’s and race team. A decision was made, the 48km and 25km races would go ahead as planned but the 100km event would have two key sections removed, the technical and airy ridge after Fremste Blåhornet would be removed and the out-and-back to the summit of Slogen – both considered too risky and dangerous in the expected weather.

With all the attention on the Golden Trail Series 25km event, the 100km was very much a secondary event. Starting at 0200, the 100km race would have already been going for 9-hours before the start of the GTS race. Yes, the 100km event is THAT tough.

Epic, beautiful and brutal are three words that sum up the racing and route here in Stranda, that is in good weather. In bad weather… Well, you can work it out. The physical and mental challenge is huge.

However, the Stranda Fjord Trail Race located in Møre go Romsdal, is one of the most truly spectacular experiences. The 100km distance offering a full and immersive 360 experience of what this magical area of Norway has to offer.

The 25km, 48km and 100km races are tough, challenging, and brutal and should not be underestimated. There is little easy running here, the climbing is hard and steep, the descents even on a dry day can be horrendous, in the wet, they are as one person said, “Terrifyingly slippery despite what shoes you use!’

Let’s be honest, Norway as a location is arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world, and as a runner or outdoor enthusiast, the options and possibilities are endless, be that in the south or north.

Stranda is located on one of the west Norwegian fjords, part of the Sunnmøre region, often accessed via ferry from Liabygda. It can also be accessed by road via Lom. For most, the easiest way to travel is to fly to Ålesund and then travel 50km by bus.

2022 was significant with the 25km being a stage of the Salomon Golden Trail Series, this event alone brought in more than 600-participants and many of the world’s best mountain and trail runners. The 4000 population of Stranda increased by approximately 30% over race weekend, an amazing boost for the local community. GTS brought a European razzamatazz to the event with live broadcasts, commentary, interviews, group runs and huge social presence – it was arguably the biggest promotion of trail running in Norway since the inception of the Tromso SkyRace which ironically was taking place on the same day further north.

There was huge anticipation of how the racing would go, key favourites such as Sara Alonso and Manuel Merillas would have a hard job of beating ‘local’ favourites of Jon Albon (Brit living in Norway) and Emelie Forsberg (Swedish) who has been living and running in Norway for many years. The inclement weather, challenging conditions and brutally slippery rock only played into the hands of those with local knowledge.

Jon Albon won the race in a new course record – amazing in the challenging conditions. Manuel Merillas (Esp) and Bart Przedwojewski (Pol) placed 2^nd and 3^rd ahead of Frederic Trancard (Era) and Davide Magnini (Ita)

For the women, we saw the rise of Sophia Laukli (USA) who won the event ahead of Elise Poncet (Fra) and Emelie Forsberg. Blandine HIrondel (Far) placed 4^th and Sara Alonso 5^th.

The stories post-race was truly mud, sweat and tears. Arguably the most challenging and technical race of the GTS and what a way to shine a light on Norway and its incredible landscape. I am sure there are many runners now thinking and planning future adventures in this epic playground.

The 48km race, a big challenge but considerably more achievable than the 100k uses much of the opening miles of the 100km route, however, after reaching the summit of Fremste Blåhornet at 1478m returns to Stranda via Heimste Blåhornet, Løfonnfjellet and Rødesthornet. The route passes through Stranda start/ finish and continues on another loop summiting at Roaldshornet at 1230m and then following on to Blåfjellet and Skurdahornet before descending all the way down to the finish line.

Lasse Aleksander Finstad placed first ahead of Tolga Rambovski Olcay and Torbjørn Breansœter, 6:34, 6:50 and 7:07 respectively.

Mirjam Saarheim placed 7^th overall and clinched female victory in 7:26. Jingling Tang and Anna Louise Astand Sørlie ran 7:50 and 8:02 to round out the podium.

Offering a 360 counterclockwise experience of this stunning area of Norway, the 100km route is a beast. It is quite simply stunning, even in bad weather. However, the physical and mental tenacity required to complete the race cannot be fully explained. This is reflected in only 33 participants finishing.

VIEW THE IMAGE GALLERY HERE

The course does contain some areas where you can switch off and just run, but they are few and far between. The opening miles may offer an illusion of the severity to come. The hard work starts to really kick in with approximately 20km covered at Liavarden. What follows are walls of grass, rock, scree, stone slabs, technical ridges, relentless vertical climbing, and challenging descending.

Reaching the summit of Fremste Blåhornet at 1478m and 23km the route was changed to avoid a technical ridge. The terrain that followed was rocky, slow, and brutal especially in the persistent rain and cold temperatures.

The aid station on the road of Dalevegen at 28km distance was followed by easy running before an extremely steep and challenging out-and-back climb to Storhornet at 1309m.

Liasætra aid station followed and then easy trail running to Patchellhytta DNT cabin. Here, the out -and-back to the summit of Slogen was removed – a shame but absolutely the correct call in the conditions.

Left in the valley and runners make their way to Velleseter, Brunstadsætra, Storevatnet, and then the road section crossing and aid station that leads to the final section of the course, 80km covered.

The climb to summit Roaldshornet at 1230m is long and relentless, the summit at 86km and it would be easy to think it’s all downhill from here. Considering what has gone before, it’s fair to say that it is. Eventually the 100km joins with the final section of the 48km track and the run in to the finish is welcome and hard earned.

Mathis Dahll Fenre battled with Vermund Upper Garden for victory, the duo separated by just 1-minute, 16:00 and 16:01 respectively. Thomas Wallin-Andersen placed 3^rd in 16:59.

For the women, Wenfei Lie had led the early sections of the race ahead of Alexandra Narkowicz and although the duo was together on the climb to the final summit at Roaldshornet, Alexandra had more reserves to take victory in19:13 to 19:55 for Wenfei. Margrethe Fjetland rounded the podium.

VIEW THE IMAGE GALLERY HERE

One thing is for sure, running 25km, 48km or 100km in this area of Norway is not easy, ask anyone who toed the line of the respective distances. There is something truly magical here, 2021 opened up this area of Norway to the world, 2022 has elevated Stranda as a ‘must go’ location. I can only encourage and emphasise that you ‘need’ to add Stranda Fjord Trail Race to your bucket list. You will not be disappointed with the experience, BUT come prepared, you are going to earn that finish medal.

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Episode 225 – Michael Wardian and Michael Jones

Posted on July 20, 2022 by talkultra

Episode 225 of Talk Ultra has an in-depth interview with Michael Wardian after his epic run across America. We also speak with Ultra Trail Snowdia by UTMB race director, Michael Jones. Speedgoat co-hosts.

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VJ Sport XTRM2 Shoe Review Here

Matterhorn Skyrunning Workshop Here

Episode 223 – Marathon des Sables Special Here

Scarpa Golden Gate Kima Shoe Review Here

Episode 222 – Tom Evans, Ryan Sandes and Ryno Griesel Here

MDS Photo Gallery Here

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A night in an AuroaHut – Rondane, Norway.

Posted on July 8, 2022 by talkultra

Norway has opened up endless possibilities when it comes to outdoor adventures. Camping and fast packing two obvious highlights. However, every now and again, something with a little more comfort and uniqueness can be an attraction and temptation, especially when running and exploring.

Scandinavia is all about outdoor experiences and there are many who are offering a ‘unique’ opportunity to experience nature. AuroraHut is one such company.

For clarity, our stay in the ‘Arctic Dome-Eco Camp Rondane’ should have originally been in a heated dome, situated on land – a prize Abelone won in a completion in 2021.

Time was against us, as was the availability of the domes and then a last-minute trip to Rondane provided the opportunity to seize a free AuroraHut for the night… So, we took it!

Rondane is located 4-hours from Oslo in Eastern Norway and is known for its rolling landscape, extreme cold temperatures in winter and the amazing Moskus (Musk Ox) which is definitely a ‘to-do’ when visiting, maybe as part of a tour?

AuroaHut – An igloo boat that takes glamping to another level. It’s a moveable luxury that can float or be located on land based on or around attractions. A key feature is the ability to move the AuroraHut based on weather and seasons, particularly important in places such as Norway with harsh winters. It can also be placed next to other AuroraHuts to facilitate family accommodation or groups. Ultimately, the possibilities are endless.

Our AuroraHut should have been placed on Høvringsvatne lake surrounded by mountains (see below) and wide-open space near Smuksjøseter Fjellstue – a perfect location providing a sense of isolation but with the luxury of the AuroraHut. More information HERE.

Unfortunately, on arrival we were told our AuroraHut had been re-located lower down the valley due to a harsh winter and the Høvringsvatne lake being frozen. The new location – a small lake surrounded by cabins and next to the Høvringen Høgfjellshotell (see below).

Not what we wanted and had we been paying we would have most definitely complained.

The AuroraHut requires isolation! It is effectively a floating greenhouse made up of glass panels that offers panorama views. Great views for those inside out to nature, but also great views inside from anyone outside to the AuroraHut and us! The lake was close to a road, close to cars and behind multiple cabins; not what you want.

Inside is simple as one would expect. Access is from a floating wooden platform and through a keypad door that requires an access code. As one enters, there is a small entrance space, immediately to the right a very small kitchen area with two burners and minimal storage area. To the left, coat hangers and a small space for storage and directly opposite a small toilet area behind a curtain. The main space is occupied with a comfortable double bed and a 180-240degree vista from left to right. The roof is also glass, perfect at night for looking at the sky. Luxuries come with some modern lighting, USB ports, wifi and a music system. Ultimately, it’s a glorified tent.

We were fortunate to have great weather, blue skies, sun, clouds and relaxing on the bed with a glass of wine and music playing was wonderful. We just looked out and enjoyed the view… Then a family of four walked past on the road, stopped and looked in at us. The moment was gone. Again, had I been paying for my stay I would have been complaining! You may think I am laboring this point too much, but at 3000-3500 Nok per night (£250-£290) you want the correct experience.

We had running water but unfortunately this ran out in the evening and never came back. A huge frustration but gladly, this was compensated for by me thinking ahead and ensuring the kettle was full of water ready for morning coffee. The kitchen is well designed cramping everything in to a small space. But you would not want to cook, anything other than boiling water for pasta and heating a sauce for said pasta would be too much. We had already anticipated this a brought a cool bag with all we required for a relaxed dinner – cold meats, salad, vegetable, cheese, bread, and a good quantity of wine. The only places to eat are either outside (a bench and wood burning heater are available) or on the bed. It was a chilly night, so we relaxed on the bed and enjoyed the experience.

Outdoor seating and wood burner for a cozy night,

Our evening was spent chatting, relaxing, enjoying a glass of wine and we even enjoyed a movie while eating our bodyweight in sweet treats. It was a great escape.

It’s July in Norway, so, it doesn’t go dark… Well, not until midnight and then it comes light around 0230, so, a blindfold is required if you want a dark sleeping experience. The glass roof is open and clear so fantastic for lying back and looking up to the sky. This experience would be enhanced in winter when the stars would shine and with luck, you may see the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis from which the AuroraHut gets its name.

An excellent sleep was enhanced with the gentle movement of the AuroraHut on the lake as the wind rocked us. Abelone did wonder if she would get seasick – all was good.

Morning was compromised with a lack of running water. We relaxed but soon departed for our onward journey.

We had a great night; we enjoyed the experience and uniqueness of the AuroraHut but it was all tainted by a poor location that spoiled what could have been a truly magical and special night. AuroaHut needs and requires isolation, space, and the opportunity to feel alone – we did not get this.

As experiences go, I would recommend an AuroraHut experience and I am most definitely tempted to re-experience this in winter, surrounded by snow with dark long days and the sky illuminated with the Aurora Borealis. But, one night is enough in my opinion, there is no need for additional nights – the uniqueness, joy and wow factor come in 24-hours. If running, this one would be a real treat amidst a running adventure, however, the lack of a shower would make me choose a hotel.

Ultimately, AuroraHut is one of those ‘things to do!’ and the experience should be special and memorable.