Episode 70 – Meltzer, Doherty, Haugsnes, Schwarz-Lowe

Posted on September 19, 2014 by talkultra

Episode 70 of Talk Ultra and on this weeks show we speak with the winner of Superior Endurance Runs (Fall Races), Adam Schwarz-Lowe, Eirik Eirik D Haugsnes talks Tromso Skyrace and Daniel Doherty tells us all about placing in the top-10 at Tor des Geants. Talk Training has part 2 of our Navigation 101 and we have the News, a Blog, Up & Coming Races and I am pleased to say… Speedgoat Karl Meltzer is back as co host with an in-depth chat on his AT attempt.

NEWS

Run Rabbit Run
wow – KRAR!

Rob Krar 17:40:05
Josh Arthur 18:33:05
Jeff Browning 19:06:43
Ryan Gelfi 19:38:24
Nick Clark 19:50:15

Nikki Kimball 21:14:36
Kerrie Bruxvoort 22:49:02
Darcy Piceu 22:52:40
Leslie Howlett 25:08:12
Hannah Green 29:04:40

Ultravasen
UltraVasan 90 Men 1 Jonas Buud (SWE) 6:02:03 2 Steven Way (GBR) 6:12:28 3 Jarle Risa (NOR) 6:23:38 4 Didrik Hermansen (NOR) 6:24:03 5 John Henry Strupstad (NOR) 6:28:04
UltraVasan 90 Women 1 Holly Rush (GBR) 7:09:04 2 Mimmi Kotka (SWE) 7:22:35 3 Lena Gavelin (SWE) 7:26:02 4 Sophia Sundberg (SWE) 7:34:26 5 Margrethe Løgavlen (NOR) 7:43:03

The Rut – article HERE

Sage struggled with the technical second half favoured by Kilian, closed second in 5h20’27”. Kilian finished a fast 5h09’33”. Manuel Merillas (Mammut), a new young talent from Spain leading the Series, climbed from 4th position at 30 km to finish third in 5h29’20”. Britain’s Tom Owens (Salomon) was an excellent 4th and American Paul Hamilton (The North Face) last year’s race winner, took 5th
Emelie Forsberg was race winner in 6h32’42”. Kasie closed in 6h38’05” and Anna in 6h49’25”. Canadian Ellie Greenwood was 4th and American Hilary Allen, 5th. Series leader, Italian Alessandra Carlini, took 8th.

Trofeo Kima – article HERE

MEN
Kilian Jornet 6:12:20
Manuel Merillas 6:28:33
France Sancassani 6:38:14
LADIES
Kasie Enman 7:53:42
Emelie Forsberg 8:22:17
Emanuela Brizio 8:30:52

Tor des Geants

Colle Franco 71h 49m
Nichademus Hollon 76h 25m
Guillon Antoine 79h 02m and Le Saux Christophe 79h 02m

Lecomte Emilie 85h 53m
Borzani Lisa 94h 43m
Zimmerman Denise 98h 27m

INTERVIEW

We caught up with Dan Doherty who produced a top performance and placed 6th overall

Superior 100 – article HERE

100-mile
Adam Schwarts-Lowe 21:58:32
Michael Borst 22:52:28
Nathan Leehman 23:26:47
Mallory Richard 27:32:27
Frayah Bartuska 29:56:58
Johanna Ylanen 31:08:10
50m-mile
Chris Rubesch 8:56:33
Forrest Tracy 9:23:47
Alex Kurt 9:35:24
Kristin Rognerud
Annie Behrend 13:03:34
Shelly Groenke 13:41:38

Tromso SkyRace – article HERE
1. Eirik Dagssøn Haugsnes – 6:38:30 2. Ola Hovednak – 6:49:39 3. Kilian Jornet – 6:49:55 4. Stian H-Angemund – 7:09:46 5. Sondre Stier Thorbergsen – 8:17:08
Female category
Hana Krajnikova – 9:49:48

Ultra 168 had a round up of results for the Southern Hemisphere HERE

Surf Coast Century: Saw a fantastic new course record from Kellie Emmerson in the ladies 100kms, taking it out in 9:29. In the men’s race, it was a tie for 2nd place As Dave Eadie and Brendan Davies held hands over the line. We often joke about joint finishes, but there’s no malice there

Glasshouse 100km : Cameron Munro took out first place in a speedy 17:17, nearly two hours ahead of second place. While Deb Nicholl did the ladies proud finishing in 19:31.

GNW 100-mile : Clarke McClymont celebrated a big birthday by notching up a cracking win in the 100 miler in a time of 20:56. The ladies title was taken out by Sonia McDermott in an excellent time of 25:39.

INTERVIEW

We caught up with Eirik Haugsness to discuss Tromso Skyrace and his 2014 season

BLOG

For the first time in Talk Ultra history, I am actually going to put forward one of my own posts here – Minimal, Maximal or the curious question of Drop – HERE

INTERVIEW

Adam Schwartz-Lowe won the Superior 100 after placing 2nd twice before, we caught up for a chat about the race and his previous running.

TRAINING TALK

We follow up from our ‘Basic’ Navigation 101 with ‘Intermediate. Once again Charlie Sproson co-hosts this segment

UP & COMING RACES

Chile
Patagonian International Marathon – 63K | 63 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website

Greece
Spartathlon | 245 kilometers | September 26, 2014 | website

Isle of Man
Isle of Man Mountain Ultra | 51 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website

Morocco
UltraTrail Atlas Toubkal | 105 kilometers | October 02, 2014 | website

Nepal
Godawari 50km | 50 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website

Netherlands
South Holland
Den Haag Ultra Marathon | 68 kilometers | September 21, 2014 | website

Norway
Nordmarka Ultra Challenge | 82 kilometers | September 27, 2014 | website

Portugal
Grande Trail da Serra d´Arga – Ultra Trail | 53 kilometers | September 28, 2014 | website

Romania
Unicredit Leasing Transmaraton – Double Marathon | 84 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website

Slovakia
Ponitrianska Stovka | 105 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website

Vietnam

Mountain Marathon Vietnam – 70 km | 70 kilometers | September 20, 2014 | website

CLOSE

LINKS

ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073

Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss

Website – talkultra.com

Matterhorn Ultraks 2014 – In-depth race preview

Posted on August 19, 2014 by talkultra

‘Wow, it’s such a beautiful course with the glacier at Gornergrat and then of course the Matterhorn is ever present while we run.’ Emelie Forsberg

The Matterhorn Ultraks returns, 1-year on and boy does time fly. The Skyrunner® World Series Matterhorn Ultraks is the penultimate race in the SKY series, followed by Limone Extreme, Italy in October. A magical race over 46 km with  D+ : 3’600 m | D- : 3’600 m. Combining wild open spaces, high mountains and a course that requires climbing ability, speed and technique. The highest point is Gornergrat at 3100m and this ascent will be a test for all. Panoramic views accompany every runner for the duration of the event and the ever-present Matterhorn will dominate.

Zermatt, the village at the foot of the Matterhorn is located on the Italian border of the Canton of Valais in the west of Switzerland. The Matterhorn is arguably the most photographed mountain in the world. Zermatt epitomizes Switzerland, high alpine, awe-inspiring and original. Almost one-third of the 4,000-metre mountains in the Alps are grouped around this word-famous health resort, which has been visited by mountaineers from all around the world since the first successful ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865.

View 2013 race image HERE

Read Kilian Jornet’s Matterhorn Summits interview HERE

RACE PREVIEW

MEN

Kilian Jornet will be in Zermatt, however, it looks like the Catalan will be in a supporting role for the 2014 edition of the race after a hectic last few weeks and months. Luis Alberto Hernando who placed 2^nd last year will also not be taking part as he prepares for UTMB, therefore, this leaves the door well and truly wide open for a new and fresh podium.

Marco, 11th August 2012 in the mountains above Zinal.

Marco De Gasperi needs no introduction. Way back in the day, Marco’s Skyrunning career started in and around the slopes of the Matterhorn. This year Marco has struggled with injury, he keeps telling me, ‘I’m getting old and I get more and more little niggles.’ We all know that when this Italian mountain goat is in form, he is unstoppable. His recent poor race at Sierre-Zinal was due to stomach issues, a problem that can hit any of us at any time. So, if Marco feels good, he is my top tip for the 1^st podium place.

Michel Lanne

Michel Lanne missed Ultraks last year and I am sure he will be looking to make amends this year. His 2^nd place behind Kilian at the Skyrunning World Championships clearly states that Michel is great form. If he carries that form over the Zermatt, I think we can expect to see a place on the podium and if all things align, he may well take the top slot.

Thorbjorn Ludvigsen has been on a roll lately with a series of performances that have impressed, particularly over the VK distance. His recent run at Sierre-Zinal by his own admission was below par. However, the Ultraks course will suit his strong climbing and fast running.

Marc Pinsach placed 6^th overall at Ultraks last year and not only is he a good friend and sparring partner of Kilian Jornet, he has a similar background, which bodes well for this course.

Eirik Haugsness had a great race in the 2013 edition of the race and after a strong showing at the Skyrunning World Championships and the Dolomites Skyrace; Eirik will be gunning for top-5 and ideally the podium. It’s within reach!

Zaid Ait Malek continues to run the Skyrunning circuit with a string of strong performances. A regular top-10, he is currently missing the form or the break that would repeat his 2013 Zegama performance. He has all the ability both as a climber and pure runner. Ultraks may well be his breakthrough race of 2014.

Aritz Egea an ever present at Zegama-Aizkorri, Dolomites Skyrace and Sierre-Zinal will be looking for another consistent top-10 performance. Aritz complained of not feeling great at the recent Sierre-Zinal and placed just outside the top-20. An unusual blip for the Basque country runner; Ultraks will be a better race, I am sure.

Jordi Bes Ginesta was the winner of the 2013 CCC and placed 11th at Matterhorn Ultraks in 2013. His recent top-10 at Ice Trail Tarentaise, backed up with 17^th at Transvulcania must give him a billing as top-10.

Florian Reichert has had a strong year of consistent performances and will be looking to improve on his 66^th placing at Ultraks in 2013. That placing is not indicative of Florian’s ability and more importantly his current form.

Nicolas Pianet 13^th at Ultraks in 2013 and will be looking to break top-10 this year.

Ones to watch (not in order):

Oscar Casal Mir
Marc Casal Mir 21^st at Transvulcania in 2014 and an ever-present on the Skyrunning circuit.
Hassan Ait Chau strong showing at the recent Sierre-Zinal.
Dabid Garcia
Inaki Uribe-Etxebarria
Julien Navarro
Ryan Bak 1st place Peterson Ridge Rumble 20m and Horse Butte 10m in 2014. Recent form?
Mathieu Martinez 5-top results in 2013 with 2-victories at Le Grand Defi des Voseges and Trail des Marcaires
Es Tressider
Artem Rostovstev
Hector Haines an ever-present top performing Brit. Top-20 would be a great result.
Yan Longfei

LADIES

Emelie Forsberg returns and after missing Sierre-Zinal to race a ‘home’ race, I can’t help but think that she will be super motivated to repeat her race victory form 2013. Last year, although taking a strong 1^st place, Emelie complained of feeling tired with heavy legs for the whole race. Most certainly, she will be looking for fresh legs this year and she is going to need them! The competition is fierce.

Stevie Kremer just recently finally won Sierre-Zinal after 2-years of 2^nd places. In addition, this last weekend Stevie placed top-5 at the Pikes Peak ascent. Travel is a big issue for Stevie and one of the important factors is managing the fatigue that comes with it. Ultraks will be no different for the Colorado based lady. No one lady is dominating the Sky distance this year, so although Stevie can certainly win the race, like Emelie, she is going to need her ‘A’ game.

Elisa Desco has arguably shown incredible consistency in the Skyrunner® World Series this year. Well, that was until she dropped from Sierre-Zinal with stomach issues. Current Skyrunning World Champion, we have seen Elisa go head-to-head with Stevie on many occasions and Ultraks will be no different. It’s going to be one seriously interesting race and it’s difficult to call out a winner.

Kasie Enman has been on the comeback roll and we were seeing consistently better and better performances and as Kasie settled back into racing and training. Her recent 2^nd at Speedgoat 50k was a great performance and a real confidence boost. Although Kasie had a strong run at Sierre-Zinal, I did expect her to contend the podium. However, nothing is guaranteed when you have a busy family life, 2-children and travel thrown into the mix. Now based in Europe for several weeks, Kasie may well be more relaxed, fresher and ready to thrown down the gauntlet at Ultraks. Watch out ladies!

Maite Maiora produced an incredible performance at the 2014 Transvulcania La Palma placing 2^nd and has followed up this form with a string of top-10 performances; a highlight 3^rd at Zegama-Aizkorri. A consistent and regular performer on the Skyrunner® World Series, Maite will be in the mix at Ultraks looking to repeat the form from La Palma. Placing 6^th at the Skyrunning World Championships against many of the same ladies present in this race, I am sure Maite will be looking to improve and make top-5.

Stephanie Jiminez like many of the ladies above is a Skyrunning ever-present. Racing over the VK and SKY distances, Ultraks will be at the ‘longer’ end of the distances Stephanie likes to race, so, that will impact on her performance. Having said that, she knows how to run in the mountains and for sure, top-10 is a distinct possibility.

Ones to watch:

Leire Agirrezabala
Uxoa Irigoien
Laia Andreu Trias
Anna Comet I Pascua

Not running:

Kilian Jornet
Mike Wolfe
Tom Owens
Pablo Villa
Stephan Wenk

Race results from 2013

Men

Kilian Jornet (ESP) – Salomon Santiveri – 4h43’05’’
Luis Alberto Hernando (ESP) – adidas – 4h44’47’’
Nicola Golinelli (ITA) – Arc’teryx – 4h45’57’’

Women

Emilie Forsberg (SWE) – Salomon – 5h41’16’’
Silvia Serafini (ITA) Salomon Agisko – 5h44’37’’
Nuria Dominguez (ESP) – Buff- 5h59’19’’

LINKS:

Skyrunning HERE

Matterhorn Ultraks HERE

Race Images 2013 HERE

Zegama-Aizkorri 2014 In-Depth Race Preview

Posted on May 20, 2014 by talkultra

Kilan and Hernando copyright Ian Corless

The heat subsides on the island of La Palma, the waves continue to splash on the shoreline and a new week begins. It’s only 10-days since the incredibly successful, dramatic and exciting Skyrunning Transvulcania La Palma. But wait a minute, days away, the iconic mountain race, Zegama-Aizkorri kicks off. Ask anyone about ‘Zegama’ and they say, it’s ZEGAMA! Nothing more needs to be said… it’s a race that excites mountain runners like few other races do.

It’s a brutally fast and technical race that is not for the feint hearted. Located in a natural park, Aizkorri-Aratz, it brings respect and excitement to every mountain runner that toes the line.

Zegama this year may very well just be a classic in the making, we had fireworks at Transvulcania, but one look at this line-up and I think we may well have fireworks once again but this time on the proportions of a New Year’s Eve get together…

Kilian Jornet, Luis Alberto Hernando, Marco De Gasperi, Tom Owens and Pablo Villa illuminate a top-quality men’s field.

Emelie Forsberg, Maite Maiora, Stevie Kremer, Kasie Enman, Elisa Desco and Nuria Picas add no element of softness to the race line up, these ladies are as tough as nails and may well take down a few of the top ranked men.

So, what is going to happen on the trails and mountains of the Aizkorri-Aratz?

Tech specs:

A medium mountain route over the Aratz massif and the Sierra of Aizkorri, which includes the four highest peaks in the Basque Autonomous Region (Aratz – Aizkorri –Akategi and Aitxuri). Starting in the town of Zegama (296m) the race climbs up to the high point of Otzaurte (652m) and then follows a mountain pass and a route along paths and mountain tracks of great natural beauty. It combines forests with steep rocky slopes and high grazing land. It is very technical and with a high level of difficulty.

Date: 25th of May, 2014

Start and finish: Zegama ( guipúzcoa ) –09:00 start.

Total length: 42.195 km.

Control points: 14 Refreshment points: 13

Flying sprint: Aizkorri (22.58 km)

Accumulated height gain: 5.472 meters

Maximum altitude: 1.551m Aitxuri

Minimum altitude: 296m Zegama.

Technical percentage of course: 70% approx.

Climate: medium mountain, possibilities of intense heat, strong winds, fog or rain.

Time limit: 8 hours.

Closing time of check points: Click the button to see the control time

MEN

Kilian Jornet, Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

The men’s race is full of talent and like Transvulcania, a winner could come from any direction; are we due a surprise? However, based on the La Palma showdown, one has to conclude that Luis Alberto Hernando and Kilian Jornet are HOT favourites for the win.

Luis Alberto Hernando Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Luis Alberto Hernando fulfilled a dream at La Palma and coming to Zegama he will either be immensely satisfied and looking for a victory loop or he will be fired up and ready for more… I’m going with the latter! He’s a fierce competitor and his powers of recovery post Transvulcania will be good. Zegama suits Luis and he only ‘just’ missed out on the win in 2013 by seconds, pushing Kilian Jornet all the way to the line.

Kilian Jornet Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Kilian Jornet now has one race under his belt and all the competition will now know that his training is done… I joke, but Kilian usually only needs one race to loosen up and he is back in his stride. If we look at 2012, Kilian placed 3^rd at Transvulcania and then just 1-week later dominated Zegama in atrocious conditions. For sure, Kilian doesn’t like heat and he will be hoping for cooler conditions come the weekend of the 24^th. If he could choose, he would like rain, some snow and wind. If we get those conditions, Kilian will almost certainly be hot favourite. Should we get sun, heat and calm conditions, I think Kilian is still the hot favourite BUT it will be close, very close.

Marco De Gasperi Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

So close that Marco De Gasperi will almost certainly make Kilian and Luis potentially repeat the Zegama finish of 2013 or we may have a ‘replay’ of the Kilian and Marco sprint from the Dolomites Skyrace in 2013. One thing is for sure, the legend that is Marco De Gasperi will be pushing the Spaniard and the Catalan over every meter of this course and if he is not pushing them, he will be leading them. Marco keeps telling me that he is getting old but class is permanent and that class will shine in Zegama.

Tom Owens Transvulcania 2014 ©iancorless.com

Tom Owens had a superb Zegama in 2011 and 2012 and then disappeared in 2013 with injuries. However, Tom is back! A recent 2^nd behind Ricky Lightfoot at the Three Peaks in the UK and a stunning 6^th at Transvulcania, his first ultra, without doubt elevates Tom to hot and he will be looking for a podium place. For Tom to place 6^th in an ultra and then drop down to his preferred distance, SKY, can only mean that he has an even greater chance of rocking the cart. His strong fell running background is a perfect fit for this race. Podium potential for sure.

Tadei Pivk Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Tadei Pivk produced a stunning run in 2013 taking the final podium place ahead of Zaid Ait Malek. Both of these runners will make an impact one again. In particular, Zaid has progressed in the last 12-months with a series of quality results and performances. He’s a small guy with a huge character and personality. They will both be up at the front.

Zaid Ait Malek Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Michel Lanne Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Michel Lanne will be leaving his helicopter at home and once again lacing up his ‘Sense’ to test himself against the best in the world. He will be in the mix, he always is, however, he just needs that touch of extra luck to help him move up to the very front end of a pure mountain race like this. Michel had a string of top-3 performances in 2013, a notable 2^nd to Francois d’Haene at Mont-Blanc 80km a highlight. Just recently he placed 2^nd at Trail du Ventoux, so, the form is good.

Pablo Villa Transvulcania 2014 ©iancorless.com

Pablo Villa is going to be on a high after top-10 at Transvulcania and like Tom Owens will be looking to carry the momentum on here. It’s going to be a tough call and although I don’t see him contesting the podium, the Scott runner will be in the mix if recovered.

Oli Johnson inov-8 ©iancorless.com

Inov-8, Skyrunning partner are sending a very strong field that can be broken down into several levels. I see the strong performances coming from Eirik Haugsnes, Aritz Egea and Alex Nichols. Anyone of these guys could make the top-10. Oli Johnson placed top-10 at Mont-Blanc Marathon in 2013 and will represent the UK at the up and coming Skyrunning World Champs, he has the run ability and skill set to excel at Zegama, however, I am not sure he is 100% at the moment, so, I think he will have a presence at the front end, his performance will very much depend on his progression in the last 2 to 3 weeks. Pierre Laurent Viguier recently won Trail du Citadelles but like Robbie Britton, this race may well be too short, too technical and too fast for them to excel. I see Zegama, as being a learning curve and Chris Steele will no doubt embrace the opportunity and give it all he has.

AJ Calitz in Europe, early 2013. Zegama-Aizkorri

Alex Nicholls gets a nod in the inov-8 line up but we have other quality overseas competition coming from Cameron Clayton (USA), AJ Calitz (South Africa) and we should have had Vlad Ixel arriving from the Southern Hemisphere, however, recent injury has put a stop to that. A real shame, Vlad is my hot-tip as one of the new ‘surprises’ in the trail and ultra world. No worries, we will get to see him perform in June at the World Champs. AJ Calitz pushed at the front end of the 2013 Zegama and then it all went pear shaped when he tried to follow Kilian on one of the descents, he hit the deck and his race was over… AJ swore he would be back and he is! I still think he is in for a learning curve experience but I do expect to see him in the mix. Cameron has all the speed needed to race at the front but this race is like no other. It’s fast, furious, relentless and technical. The question for Cameron will be can he use all that natural ability and perform on what for him, will be very technical terrain?

Martin Gaffuri Transvulcania Half Marathon ©iancorless.com

Martin Gaffuri raced really well in 2013 earning some very cool Skyrunning stripes. He started 2014 with a warm up in Costa Rica laying a great foundation and at Transvulcania he raced the half-marathon so as not to use up too much energy and gain a confidence boost. However, the race didn’t go well… just a bad day I am sure. However, it may play on Martin’s mind? Martin has the right skill set, speed and downhill ability to do well at Zegama so we will just have to see what happens.

To be honest, Zegama has an elite list that extends well beyond 50 runners, so, here are a few notable mentions that we can almost certainly expect to see in the mix:

Cristobal Adell – potential top-10
Alfredo Gil – potential top-10
Jokin Lizeaga – potential top-10
Greg Vollet – Team Manager for Salomon. Don’t be surprised to see Greg beat some of his own athletes and he may well make top-10.
Thorbjorn Ludvigesen
Fabio Bazzana
Florian Reichert still new to Skyrunning and on a learning curve but may make the mix?
Stephan Wenk
Hassan Ait

Who have I missed? In a field this stacked, it’s impossible to account for everyone, particularly local runners who I may not know too well but who will excel on local terrain.

Check out the men’s elite field at http://www.zegama-aizkorri.com/en

LADIES

Emelie Forsberg copyright Ian Corless

Rewind to Transvulcania and I think we may well see some similar performances with the exception of Frosty who will not be racing at Zegama. What we have, is a who’s who of female mountain running and it’s wide open.

Nuria Picas Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Nuria Picas is on fire! As I write this, she has just won TNF100 in Australia setting a new course record. Add to this win, two incredible 2013 wins, one at the 105-mile UTMF and the other at Transgrancanaria and Nuria is the female to beat at any distance and on any course. However, she pulled out of Transvulcania (correctly in my opinion) and although Nuria is on the start list for Zegama, I expect a similar withdrawal this coming week? However, should she race, she will be pushing at the front, of this I have no doubt. The question mark will come on how fresh she will be for a short, fast mountain race after racing 100km’s or more in the early part of 2013. Nuria placed 2^nd in 2013 behind Emelie Forsberg and finished just seconds ahead of Stevie Kremer. It’s an exciting prospect. Update 21/05/14 : Nuria will not race stating that recovery is paramount after her win in Australia.

Emelie Forsberg Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Emelie Forsberg is just off skis and other than running half of the Transvulcania VK and a couple of hours in the Transvulcania main event, has little running in her legs. Add to this a bad fall in La Palma, stitches and some recovery time and Emelie may well be going to Zegama the most underprepared ever. She was relatively underprepared in 2012 when she arrived an unknown, however, look what has happened since… She has said to me that Zegama is no longer an ‘A’ race and she will use it to find form, however, Emelie on an off day is still a formidable force and I still see her in the mix. Emelie won Zegama in 2013 and pretty much everything else in her long and demanding season. When knocked off the top slot, particularly in mountain running, it was by Stevie Kremer! Firstly at Mont-Blanc and then at Limone, so, Emelie will be taking Zegama with one eye on the trail and the other on Stevie.

Stevie Kremer copyright Ian Corless

Stevie Kremer is also just off skis but unlike others, Stevie does maintain some running during the winter months. It may not be a great deal of hours or mileage but that connection with trail certainly puts her in a good place for the first race of the season. She showed this last year at Zegama when she flew down the final descent (she says she can’t descend) and nearly caught Nuria for 2^nd place. Notorious for being nervous on the start, Stevie turns that energy into exciting running. She can climb with the best and although she thinks that she can’t contest the downhills, she can! Stevie just needs to believe it. My tip for the race victory!

Maite Maiora Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Maite Maiora is a class act when it comes to mountain running. Her recent 2^nd place at Transvulcania shows a new side to this slight but extremely strong runner. With added endurance, boosted confidence and great technical ability, Maite will be in the mix at Zegama and testing the other ladies to the limits. I see her on the podium; the question will be at which level? To be honest, if her recovery has gone well post La Palma, I see her going head-to-head with Stevie.

Elisa Desco Transvulcania VK ©iancorless.com

Elisa Desco returned to racing in 2013 and won the highly prestigious Sierre-Zinal. Her recent win at the Transvulcania VK and half marathon confirms that her form is good. Elisa has all the right elements to perform well at Zegama and without doubt she is podium material. The ladies field is so strong, it may well just come down to who makes the least mistakes? Elisa won’t make many!

Uxue Fraile Zegama 2013 ©iancorless.com

Uxue Fraile once again produced an incredible race in Transvulcania. I said in that preview that she lacks the outright speed of some of her rivals, however, what she does have is staying power and true grit. So, should any lady falter, Uxue will be in the mix to take places. I see this happening again at Zegama. She will definitely be in the top-10, probably in the top-5 and may just sneak the podium.

Kasie Enman is coming over from the USA and will add an interesting dynamic o the race. She’s a fast lady and as Stevie says, she is without doubt one to watch. The trails and technicality of Zegama may not allow Kasie to unleash her natural speed, however, I don’t see her being off the pace. The biggest question will come in her form, as this is a return to racing after having a child.

The ladies race has less depth than the men’s field, however, you can expect to see the ladies listed below in or around the top-10.

Oihana Azkorbebeitia last big win in 2012, Puebo de Gran Fondo and has had top ranking at Zegama before. This is her comeback after having a baby. You can’t rule her out…
Nerea Ambilibia
Aitzibier Ibarbia
Stephanie Jiminez strong run at Transvulcania VK and just coming into form. Will not race, Stephanie says she is not ready for 42k yet.
Silvia Miralles
Landie Greyling strong South African runner, 5th at Kepler Challenge and 2nd at Addo Elephant.

Who have I missed? It’s impossible to account for everyone, particularly local runners who I may not know too well but who will excel on local terrain.

YOU CAN CHECK THE FULL LIST HERE

Trail Magazin, Germany 2013

Episode 61 – Frost, Gates, de Haast, Haugsnes, Forsberg, Kremer

Posted on May 16, 2014 by talkultra

Episode 61 of Talk Ultra – Anna Frost tells us all about the incredible comeback at Transvulcania, isla de La Palma. Rickey Gates talks running in the UK with Scott Jurek and the Bob Graham Round. Eirik D Haugsnes discusses his 2014 season and Emelie Forsberg is back in smilesandmiles with a sore hand. Michael de Haast, race director for the Salomon Skyrun in South Africa talks us through the course and tells us about a great opportunity. The News, a Blog, Up and Coming Races and our favourite, Pocket Rocket, Stevie Kremer co-hosts the show.

NEWS

Transvulcania

Luis Alberto Hernando – ESP adidas 6:55:41
Kilian Jornet ESP Salomon 7:01:34
Sage Canaday USA Hoka One One 7:11:39
Tofol Castanyer ESP Salomon 7:23:56
Stephan Hugenschmidt GER Salomon 7:27:10
Tom Owens GBR Salomon 7:31:15
Mauel Merillas ESP 7:34:55
Timothy Olson USA The North Face 7:35:22
Pablo Villa ESP Scott 7:36:12
Dakota Jones USA Montrail 7:42:35

Anna Frost NZL Salomon 8:10:41
Maite Mayora ESP La Sportiva 8:20:29
Uxue Fraile ESP Vibram 8:48:01
Emma Roca ESP Compressport/ Buff 8:58:45
Anne Lise Rousset FRA Team Race Land 9:10:29
Jodee Adams-Moore USA Scott Sports 9:19:14
Andrea Huser SUI 9:28:25
Krissy Moehl USA Patagonia 9:29:00
Frederica Boifava ITA Alpsation 9:41:32
Alessandra Carlini ITA Salomon/ Agisko 9:47:25

Transvulcania VK

Bernard Dematteis 47:23
Martin Dematteis 48:26
Kilian Jornet 49:33

Elisa Desco 59:43
Laura Orgue 1:01:10
Azara Garcia de los Salmones Marcano 1:01:42

Ice Age Trail 50- mile

Max King 5:41:07 new CR – now has Western States slot
Matt Flaherty 5:49:13
Brian Condon 5:58:24

Mention for Iain Ridgeway from the Uk, 7th in 6:19

Kaci Lickteig 6:41:39 new CR
Kate Pallardy 7:04:16
Larisa Dannis 7:15:39

Thames Path 100

Ed Catmur 16:38:13
David Pryce 16:56:40
Tim Landon 17:48:04

Sarah Morwood 19:57:52
Sally Ford 20:19:01
Kerry Sutton 22:08:21

Zegama is just a week away and I caught with Eirik Haugsnes at a recent inov-8 athlete retreat to get his thoughts on the up and coming season

AUDIO with Eirik

BLOG – Dakota Jones on Transvulcania – http://www.irunfar.com/2014/05/dakota-joness-2014-transvulcania-report.html

INTERVIEW

Anna Frost is back… after a troubled 18-months, Frosty is back were it all started, Transvulcania. Listen to the story

MELTZER MOMENT with Speedgoat

INTERVIEW

Rickey Gates recently came to the UK with Scott Jurek and tacked our trails, fells and mountains. They even had a go at the Bob Graham Round… listen to Rickey’s insight.

SMILES and MILES with EMELIE FORSBERG

INTERVIEW

Michael de Haast race director for the Salomon Skyrun tells us all about his incredibly tough and challenging race in South Africa which will take place in November. Listeners to Talk Ultra are able to take part in this event with a very special package that has been put together. – https://iancorless.org/salomon-sky-run-south-africa/

UP & COMING RACES

Australia

New South Wales

The North Face 100 Australia | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

The North Face 50 Australia | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Queensland

Glasshouse 50 | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Glasshouse 80 | 80 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

The Great Wheelbarrow Race – Mareeba to Dimbulah | 104 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

Austria

Über Drüber UltraMarathon | 63 kilometers | May 29, 2014 | website

Belgium

Wallonia

Trail du Hussard | 50 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Bhutan

The Last Secret | 200 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Canada

Alberta

Blackfoot Ultra 100KM | 100 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Blackfoot Ultra 50 Km | 50 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Blackfoot Ultra 50 Miler | 50 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Ontario

Ragnar Relay Niagara Ontario | 192 miles | May 30, 2014 | website

Sulphur Springs 100 Mile Trail Run | 100 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Sulphur Springs 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Sulphur Springs 50 Mile Trail Run | 50 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Cyprus

Lionheart Run | 80 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Czech Republic

M.E.T.R. 60km | 60 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Finland

Oulu

NUTS Karhunkierros Trail Ultra – 160 km | 160 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

NUTS Karhunkierros Trail Ultra – 53 km | 53 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

NUTS Karhunkierros Trail Ultra – 80 km | 80 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

France

Ain

La Promenade du Bûcheron | 70 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Trail de Haute Provence – Ultra | 72 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Bouches-du-Rhône

100 km de Peynier | 100 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Finistère

Roscoff To Roscoff | 57 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Gironde

Tour du Canton de Fronsac 60 km | 60 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Haute-Loire

Le Puy-en-Velay (Hte Loire) – Conques (Aveyron) : du 23 au 27 mai 2013 | 210 kilometers | May 22, 2014 | website

Haut-Rhin

Trail des Marcaires | 53 kilometers | May 25, 2014 | website

Hérault

6666 Occitane | 105 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Grand Raid Occitan | 165 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Hérault Trail | 73 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Ultra Draille | 120 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Nord

100 km de Steenwerck | 100 kilometers | May 28, 2014 | website

Pyrénées-Atlantiques

Euskal Trails – Ultra Trail | 130 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Trail des Villages | 80 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Trail Gourmand | 50 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Savoie

Grand Raid 73 | 73 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Seine-Maritime

Tour du Pays de Caux | 88 kilometers | May 28, 2014 | website

Trail du Pays de Bray – 55 km | 55 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Val-d’Oise

Trail du Donjon – 50 km | 52 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Vaucluse

Grand Raid Dentelles Ventoux 100 km | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Grand Raid Dentelles Ventoux 56 km | 56 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Yonne

Oxfam Trailwalker France | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Yvelines

Trail des Cerfs – 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Germany

Baden-Württemberg

Black Forest Trail Maniak 100K Masters | 100 kilometers | May 22, 2014 | website

Black Forest Trail Maniak 100M Superior | 100 miles | May 22, 2014 | website

Lower Saxony

EulenburgTrail 100 Meilen | 100 miles | May 30, 2014 | website

EulenburgTrail 96 km | 96 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Rhineland-Palatinate

Westerwaldlauf 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 29, 2014 | website

Schleswig-Holstein

Lauf zwischen den Meeren | 94 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Steinburg – Ultra – Marathon 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 29, 2014 | website

Thuringia

GutsMuths-Rennsteiglauf Super Marathon | 72 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

Nove Colli Running | 202 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Trail Alta Val Nure | 53 kilometers | May 25, 2014 | website

Tuscany

100km del Passatore | 100 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Japan

Oxfam Trailwalker Japan | 100 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

Morocco

Mararathon International des Cèdres | 90 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Nepal

Mount Everest Extreme Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | May 29, 2014 | website

Netherlands

Drenthe

UltraRun van Gieten 50 kilometer | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Norway

Romerike 100 | 100 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Romerike 200 | 200 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Vestfold Ultra Challenge 50 Km | 50 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Vestfold Ultra Challenge 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Peru

Jungle Ultra | 220 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

Portugal

Ultra Trail de São Mamede | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Spain

Balearic Islands

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls | 185 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls Costa Nord | 100 kilometers | May 16, 2014 | website

Trail Menorca Cami de Cavalls Costa Sud | 985 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Castile-La Mancha

Quixote Legend | 166 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

Catalonia

Ultra Trail Coll de Nargo | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Valencian Community

CSP-115 | 118 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

MIM Marató i Mitja | 63 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Switzerland

Berne

Bielersee Ultra-Marathon | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Bielersee XXL 100 Meilen | 100 miles | May 16, 2014 | website

Vaud

Trail Vallée de Joux – 50 km | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

United Kingdom

Birmingham

Grand Union Canal Race | 145 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Cumbria

Old County Tops Fell Race | 37 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Devon

Coastal Trail Series – Flete – Ultra | 35 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

Forces March | 131 miles | May 21, 2014 | website

Lincolnshire

Len Medlock Memorial Lincoln to Boston Challenge | 32 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

North Yorkshire

Hardmoors 160 ‘The Ring Of Steele’ | 160 miles | May 23, 2014 | website

Hardmoors Ultra 110 | 110 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Perth and Kinross

Cateran 55 Mile Ultra | 55 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Surrey

North Downs Way 50 | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Wiltshire

Wessex Ridgeway Relay | 100 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

USA

Arizona

Grand Canyon 100 Mile | 100 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Grand Canyon 50K | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Grand Canyon 50 Mile | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

California

Bishop High Sierra Ultramarathons – 100K | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Bishop High Sierra Ultramarathons – 50K | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Bishop High Sierra Ultramarathons – 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Born to Run 100K Trail Run | 100 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Born to Run 100M Trail Run | 100 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Born to Run 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

DRTE 100K | 100 kilometers | May 30, 2014 | website

DRTE 100 Mile | 101 miles | May 30, 2014 | website

Horseshoe Lake 50K | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Nanny Goat 100M Trail | 100 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

Ohlone Wilderness 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Colorado

The Divide 135 Ultra | 135 miles | May 16, 2014 | website

Florida

Keys 100 Mile | 100 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Keys 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Wickham Park 100 Mile Fun Run | 100 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

Wickham Park 200 Mile Fun Run | 200 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

Wickham Park 50 Mile Fun Run | 50 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

Georgia

Cruel Jewel 100 | 100 miles | May 16, 2014 | website

Cruel Jewel 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | May 16, 2014 | website

Rogue Yeti 50K Run | 50 kilometers | May 23, 2014 | website

Rogue Yeti 50 Mile Run | 50 miles | May 23, 2014 | website

Run for the Heroes – 260 Mile Run Across Georgia | 260 miles | May 21, 2014 | website

Indiana

Tryon Farm Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Maine

Pineland Farms 50K Trail | 50 kilometers | May 25, 2014 | website

Pineland Farms 50 Mile Trail | 50 miles | May 25, 2014 | website

Minnesota

Savage 100 | 100 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Spring Superior Trail 50 k | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Missouri

Berryman 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

Nebraska

G.O.A.T.z Gravel Classic 60k | 60 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Nevada

Silver State 50K | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Silver State 50-Miler | 50 miles | May 17, 2014 | website

New Mexico

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs 50K | 50 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Jemez Mountain Trail Runs 50-Mile | 50 miles | May 24, 2014 | website

New York

Lower Hudson Hundred Kilometer | 100 kilometers | May 24, 2014 | website

Ohio

Playin’ Possum 50k | 50 kilometers | May 17, 2014 | website

Oregon

TrailFactor 50k | 50 kilometers | May 26, 2014 | website

Pennsylvania

Dirty German 50K | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Dirty German 50 Miles | 50 miles | May 18, 2014 | website

Sun Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | May 18, 2014 | website

Sun Mountain 50M | 50 miles | May 18, 2014 | website

Wyoming

Rocky Mountain 50k | 50 kilometers | May 25, 2014 | website

CLOSE

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Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss

Website – talkultra.com

Uphill Secrets from the Pros – Trail Running Mag

Posted on May 15, 2014 by talkultra

Check out the latest edition of TRAIL RUNNING with an article and images by yours truly on running uphill.

It features Emelie Forsberg, Antonella Confortola, Erik Haugsnes, Florian Reichert, Tessa Hill and Stevie Kremer

www.trailrunningmag.co.uk

You can subscribe HERE

Image Preview #inov8retreat

Posted on March 16, 2014 by talkultra

An incredible and inspiring weekend in the heart of the English Lakes with a committed team of athletes and employees of inov-8. It’s been a real pleasure to spend quality time discussing the brand, apparel and shoes. Watch out in 2015, inov-8 have some seriously quality products coming your way!

Here are just a small selection of images as a teaser….