Episode 233 of Talk Ultra – YES we are back! With Speedgoat Karl co-hosting and an in-depth interview with Courtney Dauwalter.
It has been a long time, and we can only apologise. Life, family and extensive travel had an impact on available time and while it’s always possible to ‘find some time’ somewhere, the podcast had to be sidelined for the beginning of 2023.
Lanzarote Training Camp, Oman Desert Marathon, The Coastal Challenge, Black Canyon Ultra, a photoshoot for adidas and lastly Transgrancanaria, it was a hectic start to ’23!’
Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein. We are also on Spotify too.
Our web page at www.iancorless.com has all our links and back catalogue.
Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patreon at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us.
The La Sportiva Cyklonwith BOA® Fit System was a revelation on its release and without a doubt, it has been a perfect shoe for mountain adventures in challenging terrain. On first impressions, the Cyklon could almost have been mistaken for a lightweight boot due to the built in sock-liner which comes higher up the leg, to ankle height which has two purposes: 1. It keeps out debris from entering the shoe. 2. It provides additional support.
The CYKLON is a unique shoe in that it almost occupied its own category, a crossover between mountain running shoe and boot. IT excelled in challenging terrain with incredible foot hold, protection and a great outsole. Standout features were the sock-like fit in conjunction with the BOA/ Dynamic Cage which provided me with arguably one of the most secure footholds I have experienced.
Now, La Sportiva have stepped up the game with the recent release of the Cyklon Cross GTX. Living in Norway, this has been one of my ‘go-to’ shoe throughout the winter months when snow and ice have been my ‘normal’ running conditions.
In simple terms and for ease of clarification, imagine a Cyklon shoe wrapped in a water-repellent gaiter designed to keep snow, mud, ice, water, and other unwanted elements away from the foot.
Add an external zip allowing ease of access and a BOA® Fit System to ‘dial’ how tight or loose the fit of the shoe is, and an aggressive grip made from FriXion® White you have arguably, one of ‘the’ ultimate off-road/ mountain shoes when conditions are harsh.
My first impressions were one of disappointment, why were there no metal studs on the outsole as La Sportiva have on the Blizzard GTX (here)? Of course, I understood why, you really limit the market and the use of the shoe with studs, but here in Norway, you ‘always’ need spikes from November through to March and even April.
However, having messaged Jono Wyatt at La Sportiva asking the above question, his reply was as I expected, “We need to appeal to a larger market to make the shoe viable, but this outsole is designed to be used with AT Grip spikes to enhance grip on snowy and icy terrain.”
Problem solved – the AT Grip HERE is a multi-purpose, adjustable spike, it can be added to the sole quickly, guaranteeing maximum safety and grip on any type of terrain and under any conditions.
So, with my personal ‘needs’ covered re the spikes, I decided NOT to add the AT spikes and try the shoes in a multitude of terrain and as and when required, add micro-spikes (Nortec HERE for example) for ice conditions. Micro-spikes do provide more grip than studs, but the running experience is not as good as a specific winter stud shoe.
If you used the Cyklon, you are going to love the Cyklon Cross GTX. For me, it takes everything I loved about the original Cyklon and adds a level of refinement that makes this incarnation a pleasure to wear.
Notably, the BOA® Fit System is in a different place to the original Cyklon and now it is clear of the ankle – a problem area for some.
Sliding your foot into the boot and it immediately feels like wearing a pair of gloves, without the BOA® Fit System adjusted, they already feel snug. Engage the BOA and twist and the foot is held snug with the option to micro-adjust tighter (or looser) based on personal needs or conditions. Then pull up the zip. The whole foot and well above the ankle is enclosed in a wonderfully snug Gore-Tex protection against the elements. The plus being that shoe adjustment can be done, ‘on-the-go’ with gloves on at any time while out on a run. Perfect!
Comfort level is extremely high. In all honesty, it’s a game changer for winter conditions. I do recommend using a higher sock that extends beyond the top of the shoe, it increases comfort. I also recommend that you use merino.
Many will say that there is no need for Gore-Tex in a running shoe. And usually, I would agree, especially for a shoe when water can enter below the ankle. Here though, the Cyklon Cross GTX comes much higher with a tight enclosure. It really does reduce what ‘can’ enter the shoe, and, in 3-months of winter running not once have my feet been wet. But go in water (deep) that extends beyond the top of the shoe and yes, water will enter, albeit much slower than any other shoe I have used. For clarity, I have run on many frozen ponds and puddles recently, often breaking through the ice to enter the water below, still no wet feet!
The grip is excellent on rock, mud, trees and all trail conditions, especially soft snow. Add micro-spikes for ice and you have a perfect ice shoe, albeit not as comfortable as a specific ice shoe, but on many occasions, I have gladly used this boot as an alternative, especially when encountering fresh snow with ice underneath, the boot offers more warmth and comfort.
Feel for the ground is superb. They are cushioned but not too much. They combine comfort and excellent proprioception so that you feel at one with the terrain and always in control. Propulsive phase is superb and all-around comfort is magnificent. The Cyklon Cross GTX feels so good that I’d love to use them beyond the winter months, they would make excellent mountain shoes for all-year BUT I fear, they will be too warm in late spring and summer.
The toe bumper is robust and amazingly protective.
Despite the obvious appeals for winter and mountain running, the Cyklon Cross GTX is ideally placed for ‘fast-and-light’ alpinism when a normal shoe just wouldn’t cut it, think of Monte Rosa Skymarathon as a prime example.
A neutral fit I suggest you size up. I find that with La Sportiva I always need to do this; I am usually an EU 44 (UK9.5) but with La Sportiva I am in EU 45. Weight of an EU 45 is 382g which is quite incredible for a shoe with such solid build. Drop is 8mm.
Looks are awesome – the classic La Sportiva yellow/ black is stunning.
CONCLUSION
The La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX gets a 9.5/10 from me. Why not 10? Well, I’d love to see them ‘with’ a winter spike, but I fully understand why a spike is not standard. At least La Sportiva have thought of this with an appropriate outsole and the option of AT spikes.
Amazing foothold, amazing grip, warm, durable and dare I say, bullet proof. This is a shoe that makes me smile and want to run in harsh, cold, and tough conditions. BOA is the perfect fit system here and arguably it’s a best-case scenario allowing the user to adjust the shoe when running, especially when wearing gloves on.
The ride is predictably stable, firm, protective and suitable for any terrain and they excel in mud and snow. Ground feel is superb with adequate comfort.
They look awesome and surprisingly streamlined. When zipped up, they fit snug, some would even say tight, which only adds to the secure and warm feeling.
They are not cheap at 260 euros, but this is a specific bespoke shoe and if used as intended, they will last year-on-year for many winters.
Quite simply, one of the best, (if not the best) winter shoes I have ever used !
Located in the Mediterranean Sea, the Balearic Island of Menorca has long been a more low-key holiday location, in contrast to its immediate neighbours of Ibiza and Mallorca. With an area on just 700 km square, Menorca is a small island full of endless beaches, pine trees, turquoise water, rugged coastline, and a winding network of trails. Mahon is the capital and Ciutadella de Menorca is the second largest centre on the opposite side of the island, both filled with narrow streets and wonderful architecture. There is a great deal to love and appreciate in Menorca.
With a highest elevation point of 358m (Monte Torro), Menorca is essentially flat. However, if you journey around the coastline, you soon realise that the rollercoaster of trails that continually take you up and down make a circumnavigation of the island, a challenge.
Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (1993) the island is a paradise for botanists, especially in spring when meadows are carpeted with wildflowers. Calm, peaceful, rest and relaxation, Menorca is, without doubt, not the party destination as associated with its nearest rivals. Culture, gastronomy, local products and produce, places of interest, Menorca is waiting to be explored.
Many ask, what is the best way to see the island of Menorca? The immediate answer, is nearly always, rent a car and go explore…
Ask a trail runner, and the answer is clear, ‘Enter Trail Menorca!’
Trail Menorca, created 10-years ago utilizes the ‘Camí De Cavalls’ GR223 route to journey around the island either in entirety (185km,) or in sections broken down as 100km, 85km, 58km, 45km, and 27km. North or south, Menorca has a great deal to offer, there is no better way to explore than by running or walking this hidden gem of the Mediterranean. As the race says, 7 adventures, 1 legend.
The Camí de Cavalls (way of the horses) according to some sources goes back to the 14th century. Named after the ‘Cavalleries’ (knights) who were charged with defending the perimeter of the island from invading forces – pirates! The 360-degree route that weaves around the island with watch towers and trenches randomly located for protection; both still in existence to this day were created by the British who marked the path to defend against the constant sieges of invaders.
In the 1990’s, after long and lengthy protests, much of the Camí de Cavalls which had been closed for decades, was once again made accessible. Finally, some of the most pristine landscape and coastline of the Mediterranean was once again available to be explored. With 185kms of marked trail, 130 bays and coves, desert like beaches, dense woodland, rugged, harsh and rocky terrain, the GR223 became a reason to journey to Menorca for an active holiday. For many, the journey takes at least one week to complete the circular route, while 10-14 days is more normal. Off limits to cars, a journey must be undertaken on foot, by bike or horse; or maybe a combination of all 3!
However, in May every year, Trail Menorca provides the opportunity to experience the Camí de Cavalls over a stunning weekend of racing. Breaking the island down in to north and south sections, runners can decide a distance and direction. The north being more rugged, exposed, and rough. The south more groomed, tranquil, and picturesque with the turquoise Mediterranean as a backdrop.
The 185km route (TMCdC) starts in Ciutadella and travels clockwise providing a full, immersive and difficult 360-degree journey. The other routes all conclude in Ciutadella but start in different areas of the island and then either travel clockwise or anti-clockwise to return to the finish.
The TMCN 100km starts at 0100am in Maó and travels north winding through rugged coastline of exposed and harsh terrain.
The TMCS 85km starts in Es Castell and weaves its way through the full length of the south coast and its incredible coves and beaches.
The PTCN 58km starts in Fornells and concludes in Ciutadella taking in the final sections of the TMCN route.
The PTCS 45km starts in Es Migjorn Gran and arguably provides the most beautiful and picturesque journey of the whole GR233 route.
Finally, the STCN 26km, which starts in La Vall provides an entry level distance travelling the final section (or opening sections, depending on direction) of the GR233. Enough to whet the appetite to return the following year and take on a longer distance.
The beauty of Trail Menorca is that you can quite easily race year-on-year and never have the same race experience as it is possible to run north or south sections over multiple distances. Perfect for those who consider the full 185km route a step too far!
Menorca may not have high mountains, but what it does have is unique and special. There is an incredible beauty and calm in Menorca. Racing is just one attraction, the opportunity to chill, relax, recuperate, and enjoy the islands gastronomy post-race makes this Balearic gem an essential to-do list location.
The 2023 edition is already close, but it is not too late to join Trail Menorca!
‘Trail Menorca Camí de Cavalls is an opportunity to discover what is hidden on this wonderful island, jewel of the Mediterranean, beyond its fantastic beaches. Running on tarmac, road, track, rocks, forest trails and depending on the race and distance, experience a night illuminated by stars. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty of Menorca.’
Transgrancanaria, year-on-year, the race continues to grow and expand and in 2023, once again, a new level has been reached! For ’23,’ Instead of gathering all races in one weekend, this edition was extended to five days. Overall, more than 3,600 runners from more than 60 different nationalities took part in any of the eight races, the most important change for 2023 was to increase the number of race days to five. Shorter races, were moved to Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning including the KV El Gigante, Starter, Promo, Youth, Family, a non-competitive kids race and the marathon.
The ‘Classic’ and ‘Marathon’ races were broadcast, worldwide, with more than 17 hours of live streaming. In total, 16 cameras offered full coverage during the two days of broadcasting with English and Spanish ‘live’ commentary. In addition, journalists, photographers and related media provided global exposure of one of ‘the’ key trail running events in the world.
Transgrancanaria is part of the Spartan Trail World Championship circuit and four races of the TGC week are awarded with ITRA points. As a result, this recognition translated into better prizes for the winners. The Spartan Trail World Championship has awarded $30,000 to the top three finishers of Transgrancanaria 2023.
From the short and sharp KV to the long and arduous Classic, Transgrancanaria has something for all. However, the pinnacle race of the week is the 128km ‘Classic’ with 7060m of vertical gain. All who toe the line to undertake the challenge are heroes, however, in 2023 a special mention must go to the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) Courtney Dauwalter who not only placed 7th overall on GC but ran under 15 hours to stop the clock in 14:40:39. Courtney, over the years, has slowly but surely ticked off victories in the worlds biggest ultras and in the process, along with course records, has set a new level in this crazy sport of ultra running. Now she has a Transgrancanaria course record to add to the list.
Canada’s Jasmine Lowther and Catalonia’s Claudia Tremps placed 2nd and 3rd, for perspective, they were almost 2-hours behind the trailblazing ‘Court!’ One has to ask the question, what is next for this amazing athlete.
In the men’s category, Andreu Simón was the fastest of all in 13:29:33 with an impressive run from the front, his victory never looked in question. A previous winner in Transgrancanari,, 2020 and 2021 in the Marathon distance.
George Foster and Azara García won the Advanced, while the Marathon went to Kenyan Robert Pkemoi, and Catalan Nuria Gil. Poland’s Bart Przedwojewski did a double win with Starter and KV El Gigante, while Switzerland’s Rea Iseli won Starter women’s category. Poland’s Katarzyna Solińska joined her countryman Przedwojewski as winner of the KV El Gigante.
France’s Enzo Rati and Italy’s Cecilia Basso Promo finished on top of the podium in the Promo category. In the Youth category, a French double win for Camille Cucherousset and Lili Perignon.
In many respects, the 2023 race concluded in regards to general classification after stage 5 when Didrik Hermansen opened up a 20-minute gap over race leader, Mathieu Blanchard.
For the women, the same applied, Katie Schide ran conservatively enjoying the day. Tomomi Bitoh ran in 2nd place and Paolo Herrera took it easy finishing in 3rd with a 2nd place on GC confirmed.
Stage 6 is a highlight of TCC with a loop that manages to encapsulate a little of everything that has gone before in the previous five stages. Gravel roads, river running, waterfall crossings, water crossing, beaches, rocks, coasteering and of course, heat and humidity.
Now it’s time to relax, hang up the run shoes and enjoy some down time. Next year is the 20th edition of TCC, already the plans are being made for a special edition.
Crossing the Sierpe river at dawn with a new sun welcoming the day, stage 5 of TCC is always a key day due to large amounts of gravel road, a technical and steep descent, the iconic estuary crossing and the heat and humidity that punishes the runner’s when they leave the shade.
Of course, all the talk was about Mathieu Blanchard and Didrik Hermansen, we and they knew it was going to be a key day. The writing was on the wall when Didrik offered Mathieu his hand before the start, it was a clear statement of let the best man win.
In the early stages the duo were matched but it didn’t take long before Mathieu dropped back on one of the early climbs. As the race progressed, this gap opened and at first it was difficult to ascertain if this was a tactic by Mathieu?
It was over 20-minutes later when Mathieu arrived. It’s fair to say, the 2023 TCC was decided today. Didrik’s effort, pace and consistency has been text book stage racing.
“After yesterday, I would not have been happy with 2nd. So the plan was to push the pace. Mathieu was having a bad day and he let me go early. I pushed and kept it steady. I opened a gap and more, and more minutes. It was motivating. I had considered taking it easy and saving something for stage 6, but, if Mathieu was having a bad day, I decided to push and get more time. It’s not over, we still have a day to go.” – Didrik Hermansen
“Yes a tough day. But last night I had already decided to go easier. Yesterday I witnessed Didrik push the downhill at an incredible pace. I little bit mad maybe? But for me, it’s February, I have a long season and I can’t risk it all here in Costa Rica. Today we had another downhill like yesterday, he took many minutes again and it’s just not possible for me to get that time back when he runs so well. I came here for an adventure and fun, I didn’t expect these first 4-days and such a pace. I am very happy.” – Mathieu Blanchard
For the women, Katie Schide had a controlled and relaxed day. Her lead is far in advance of 2nd and 3rd and still she was able to take another stage win.
Behind, Tomomi Bitoh started strong leading Paolo Herrera. But as the day passed they switched places and although close together at the end, it was another solid 2nd for Paolo.
Tomorrow, the final stage at 35.7km and with 875m+ is to all intents and purposes a victory loop, if you can call running 35.7km a victory loop. With GC places decided, I don’t anticipate a charge from Mathieu, so, let’s expect a Pura Vida loop of enjoyment.
Stage 4 of The Coastal Challenge and today, the runner’s move away from the coast and climb high on the relentlessly rolling terrain that is backed by the Talamanca range.
Today, was an anticipated key stage for Mathieu Blanchard and Didrik Hermansen, the duo have been closely matched each day and despite Didrik’s best efforts, Mathieu has come 1st each day.
The duo today once again went head-to-head, it’s stunning to watch and also exhausting. The pace is unbelievable and between them it’s impossible to tell who is the most tired.
At each point along the route they were never more than meters apart but for those watching, and knowing the course, the crux would come at the end of the day with a very steep and technical descent to the line.
Didrik threw caution to the wind and attacked. The gap opened and opened and he crossed the line in 4:39:23.
The clock ticked, 1-minute, 2-minutes and Mathieu crossed in 4:42:23, exactly a 3-minute gap. Wow! Seriously exciting racing and then the calculations, had Mathieu held the overall on GC?
Yes, 16:48:32 for Mathieu and 16:49:16 for Didrik. Before stage 4, the 19th edition of the TCC was witnessing an epic race, now stages 5 and 6 are going to be epic. Who’s your money on?
Dani Jung once again placed 3rd looking relaxed despite a sleepless night. He had questioned wether to start, gladly he did.
“I had to do something, I felt during the days I was better than him on the downhill and I was willing to take the risk, I couldn’t believe I would take 3-minutes… It’s a real fun battle, we are neck-and-neck, we are so similar in strength. It’s fun, it’s cool. Nice to finally take a stage. I feel as though I could have pushed harder. I wanted to win and obviously reduce the gap. I am prepared to fight and compete, if I come 2nd so be it, but I will fight!” – Didrik Hermansen
By contrast, Mathieu looked relaxed post-race and he was candid with his thoughts.
“Didrik went down the last decent like a mad man. It was steep, technical with many potential problems. I have a long season ahead and I wasn’t prepared to risk everything here. I feel good, so, let’s see what happens.”
For the women, Katie Schide was a long way clear of any other competition and looked relaxed on the trail. Victory in the 2023 The Coastal Challenge is hers to lose, so, she just needs to run smart over the next two days.
Fire roads, steep climbs, brutal descents and eventually a beach section arrives before several water crossings and then a very demanding road section leading to camp 3.
It may come as no surprise that Mathieu Blanchard and Didrik Hermansen dominated the day. The duo battled it out foot-for-foot in an impressive display of tenacity, grit and endurance.
For the women, Katie Schide set the pace early on and by the waterfall she already had a huge lead. When Marianne Hogan finally arrived, all was not well, she was suffering… Marianne would eventually drop at CP2 with a sprained ankle.
Katie once again clinched victory with a huge margin, she just needs to now run smart for the remaining three days. Paolo is on a strong 2nd and Tomomi a secure 3rd. However, we are only halfway through TCC and the first three stages have only confirmed one thing, anything can happen!
It was a 0330am wake-up in camp this morning with race start at 0530am. It may sound early, but trust me, the earlier hours pay dividends for everyone. Body clocks are now reset, bed between 1900-1800, wake-up 0330.
Sebastian Krogvig unfortunately succumbed to his sickness and did not finish day 1. He will rest and recovery and hopefully rejoin the race in the later stages for fun.
Mood in camp was buoyant, however, nobody was under any illusion of the severity of the TCC. The heat and humidity are one thing, but the fire roads, climbs, technical trails and long stretches of no shade a punishing.
“They say Marathon des Sables is hot, it’s nothing in comparison to this. I was in the ‘notorious’ October MDS that had intense heat, trust me, it’s hotter here!” – Mathieu Blanchard
Climbing out of camp, mountain man Dani Jung was in his element and he lead Mathieu Blanchard and Didrik Hermansen. Peter van der Zon was a way back, it was obvious he was struggling… As he passed he mentioned tight hip flexors.
For the women, Marianne Hogan had a very small lead over Katie Schide. Katie looking strong, the previous night she had questioned if she should withdraw from the race as illness from previous days had returned on stage 1 making for a tough day.
Didrik and Mathieu set a relentless pace, they are very well matched. Running at this pace and in this heat and humidity, victory may well come down to the one who manages effort the best, it’s a fine line.
In the final 10km Mathieu opened a slender lead and Didrik chased. The gap remained and it was another victory for Mathieu.
In the women’s race, Katie opened a gap on Marianne and in the final 7km that gap opened, post-race on the finish line Katie discussed her race:
“I was so happy to recover from yesterday, that was helped by cooler temperatures and a climb to start the day today… I had planned to run with Marianne but on one of the more technical sections I opened up a gap. When I eventually looked around Marianne was not there, I hope she is okay?”
Marianne was okay and finished strong with a smile looking relaxed and at ease. With 4-days to go and a long day tomorrow, there are no guarantees, the men’s and women’s races are still wide-open.
The biggest change of the day was with the 3rd place woman, Paolo Herrera. She ran an incredibly strong and consistent race to finish with a good margin over Tomomi Bitoh, this making the local Costa Rican contingent very happy.
It was an early start (0300) leaving San Jose and heading to the Pacific Coast for the stage 1 of the 2023 The Coastal Challenge starting at Del Rey beach, Quepos.
This year, the shorter Adventure category and the longer Expedition category would run different distances for stage 1. In the past, they have run the same course.
Expedition would run 41km with 1071m vertical gain and the Adventure, 32km.
Getting underway before 0800, the rewards were blessed with cooler’ temperatures for the first hour, however, cooler is all relative when on the coast, it was still hot!
Overnight, Sebastian Krogvig unfortunately had picked up some sickness, although feeling generally okay, it was clear as the stage started he was not 100%. He struggled with any pace, it was a tough day…
For the women, Katie Schide and Marianne Hogan ran together and behind, Tomomi Bitoh followed.
Checkpoint 1 and there was no change, the pace by Didrik and Mathieu was fast.
As the race progressed, Didrik and Mathieu took a wrong turn and lost in the region of 1.5km allowing Peter and Dani to take the lead. They chased, caught them and then once again pushed ahead in 1st and 2nd.
Peter started to struggle in the heat and Dani started to hold on to the duo. However, Mathieu found the energy to break away and take victory on stage one, closely followed by Didrik and Dani.
“Very happy, a hot day. In Canada it was -40, today 40-degrees here, that is a big change…. My body handled the waether today. It’s a big Tropical environment, wonderful trees, amazing bridge and waterfalls.”– Mathieu Blanchard
Tomomi came in securing 3rd place, all smiles. Last year, Tomomi caught Covid one day before the race and had to miss four stages, this year, she is so happy to be back.
Faces told the story at the finish, the heat and the humidity had taken its toll, it always does on stage 1, it’s such a shock to the system without pre-acclimation, something that Marianne and Mathieu had done.
“I heard the sound of animals in the jungle, I turned to Peter and said this is incredible, ‘This is much more atmosphere than UTMB!” – Dani Jung
IAN CORLESS 