Episode 96 – Hillary Allen and Marie-Paule Pierson

Posted on October 1, 2015 by talkultra

Episode 96 has a full and in-depth with Hillary Allen, rising star of the Skyrunning ranks. We also speak with Marie-Paul Pierson who takes on the challenge of her lifetime: Atacama. We have the News, Up and Coming Races and Speedboat is back!

00:18:50 NEWS

Help Nepal – Nepal images ‘FACES of NEPAL’ – order a print and all funds donated to Nepal charities https://iancorless.org/2015/04/28/nepal-appeal-nepalearthquake/

SPARTATHLON

1 – Florian Reus 23:17:31

2 – Dan Lawson 23:53:32

3 – Kim Hansen 23:54:37

1 – Katalin Nagy 25:07:12

2 – Alyson Venti 26:50:51

3 – Szilvia Lubics 29:18:44

Mention for Debbie Martin Consani who placed 5th and in 30:36 and Isobel Wykes 7th in 32:33. Plus a huge congrats to Marvellous Mimi Anderson who placed14th lady in 35:07:41 and then ran back and did the double!

UTMF

1 – Uxue Fraile 25:34:02

2 – Fernanda Maciel 26:44:25

3 – Aliza Lapierre 26:44:25

1 – Gediminas Grinius 20:40:58

2 – Arnaud Lejeune 21:54:51

3 – Jeff Browning 22:01:01

BEAR 100

1 – Mick Jurynec 19:01

2 – Dominiick Layfield 20:35

3 – Jesse Haynes 20:35

1 – Angela Shartel 22:34

2 – Cat Bradley 23:04

3 – Jenn Shelton 24:27

RUN RABBIT RUN 100

1 – Jason Schlarb 18:05

2 – Bob Shebest 19:13

3 – Andrew Skurka 20:12

1 – Emma Roca 21:42

2 – Emily Richards 22:00

3 – Kerrie Bruxvoort 22:54

ULTRA PIRINEU

1 – Kilian Jornet 12:03

2 – Zaid Ait Malek 12:12

3 – Miguel Heras 12:20

1 – Emelie Forsberg 13:39

2 – Mira Rai 13:43

3 – Nuria Picas 14:13

IAU 100k CHAMPS

1 – Jonas Buud 6:22

2 – Asier Cuevas 6:35

3 – Giorgio Calcaterra 6:36

1 – Camille Heron 7:08

2 – Kasja Berg 7:20

3 – Marlja Vrajic 7:27

UROC

1 – Magdalena Boulet 10:03:29

2 – Larisa Dannis 10:25:41

3 – Kaci Lickteig 10:56:22

1 – Justin Houck 8:53:22

2 – Mario Mendoza 9:12:09

3 – Ford Smith 9:47:17

Tor des Giants was stopped due to bad weather, Patrick Board did complete the course though in 80 hours 20 minutes. Denise Zimmerman was declared the ladies champion.

Andrew Hamilton set a new FKT for the Nolans 14 of 53 hours 39 mins – 1 hour better than John Robinsons previous FKT.

01:02:03 INTERVIEW

MARIE-PAULE Pierson

Fancy a multi-day TRAINING CAMP – look HERE

01:38:25 INTERVIEW

HILLARY ALLEN

02:21:02 UP & COMING RACES

Argentina

La Pachamama 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

La Pachamama 53 km | 53 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

La Pachamama 73 km | 73 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Australia

New South Wales

Freedom Trail Run – 50k | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Queensland

Bribie Beach Bash 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Victoria

Great Ocean Walk 100 km Trail Run | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Great Ocean Walk 100 mile Trail Run | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Western Australia

Oxfam Trailwalker Australia – Perth | 100 kilometers | October 09, 2015 | website

Canada

Alberta

Iron Horse Ultra 100 Km (CAN) | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Iron Horse Ultra 100 Miles (CAN) | 100 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Nova Scotia

Valley Harvest Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Ontario

Run for the Toad 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Quebec

Bromont Ultra 160 km | 160 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Bromont Ultra 55 km | 55 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Bromont Ultra 80 km | 80 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Tour du Massif – 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Croatia

Valamar Trail 53 | 53 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Valamar Trail 73 | 73 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Finland

Eastern Finland

Vaarojen Ultramaraton | 86 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

France

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Trail Edelweiss | 55 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Aude

Grand Raid des Cathares | 170 kilometers | October 15, 2015 | website

Raid des Bogomiles | 96 kilometers | October 16, 2015 | website

Calvados

66 km | 66 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Essonne

Trail du Viaduc des Fauvettes 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Haute-Corse

A Paolina | 70 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Loire-Atlantique

Trail de Mauves en Vert – 50 km | 53 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Pyrénées-Orientales

100 Miles Sud de France | 100 miles | October 09, 2015 | website

Grande Traversée Mer Montagne | 110 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Somme

100 km | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

100 km Relais | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Germany

Bavaria

Herbstlauf Schloss Thurn Hobbylauf | 87 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

North Rhine-Westphalia

50 km von Hitdorf | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Niederrhein Ultra 100Km Nachtlauf | 100 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Niederrhein Ultra 200 Km Nonstop Lauf | 200 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Greece

Rodopi Advendurun 100 miles | 100 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

Hong-Kong

Challenger – Whole Course | 78 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Prohiker – Round-trip Course | 156 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

India

National Capital Territory of Delhi

Bhatti Lakes 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Bhatti Lakes 220 km | 220 kilometers | October 02, 2015 | website

Bhatti Lakes 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Isle of Man

Isle of Man Mountain Ultra | 51 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

100 km | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Tartufo Trail 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Tartufo Trail 66 km | 66 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Magredi Mountain Trail 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Magredi Mountain Trail 40 Mile | 40 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Piedmont

Morenic Trail | 109 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Tuscany

Eroica Running Ultramaratona | 65 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Umbria

Ultra Trail le vie di San Francesco Long Way | 124 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Ultra Trail le vie di San Francesco Medium Way | 66 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Japan

Trans Kansai | 200 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Latvia

70 km | 70 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Nepal

Everest Sky Race | 360 kilometers | October 16, 2015 | website

Godawari 50km | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Mount Everest Extreme Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | October 05, 2015 | website

Royal Penguin Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | October 05, 2015 | website

Netherlands

Gelderland

Herfst Ultraloop Berg en Dal | 60 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

New Zealand

Blackmores XTERRA Trail Challenge Waihi Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Poland

120K | 120 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

60K | 60 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

90K | 90 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Portugal

Réccua Douro Ultra Trail | 80 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

South Africa

Extreme | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Legends 68km Ultra Marathon | 68 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Ultra-Trail® Cape Town – 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Ultra-Trail® Cape Town – 62 km | 62 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Spain

Aragon

Long Trail Guara Somontano | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Ultra Trail Guara Somontano | 102 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Castile and León

Ultra de Gredos | 82 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Valencian Community

Ultra Trail Del Rincon 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Ultra Trail Del Rincon 170 km | 170 kilometers | October 09, 2015 | website

Sweden

Holaveden Ultra | 52 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Sörmland Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Switzerland

Valais

Les Défis du Jubilé – 52 km | 52 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Les Défis du Jubilé – 68 km | 68 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Les Défis du Jubilé – 71 km | 71 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Vaud

Trail Vallée de Joux – 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Taiwan

50 km of Wild Pig | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

United Kingdom

Macmillan Way Ultra – Black Route | 51 miles | October 15, 2015 | website

Macmillan Way Ultra – Blue Route | 32 miles | October 15, 2015 | website

Macmillan Way Ultra – Red Route | 45 miles | October 15, 2015 | website

Robin Hood Ultra – Black Route | 50 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Robin Hood Ultra – Red Route | 37 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Trent Valley Ultra – Black Route | 56 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Trent Valley Ultra – Blue Route | 36 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Trent Valley Ultra – Red Route | 47 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Bedford

Greensand Way Ultra – Black Route | 54 miles | October 12, 2015 | website

Greensand Way Ultra – Blue Route | 35 miles | October 12, 2015 | website

Greensand Way Ultra – Red Route | 45 miles | October 12, 2015 | website

Cornwall

Atlantic Coast 3-Day Challenge | 78 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Cumbria

3×3000 Ultra Trail | 80 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Lakes in a Day | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Derbyshire

Stone Circles Ultra – Black Route | 54 miles | October 04, 2015 | website

Stone Circles Ultra – Red Route | 41 miles | October 04, 2015 | website

East Sussex

50 Mile Overnight Run | 50 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

The Longmynd Hike | 50 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Somerset

West Deane Way Ultra – Black Route | 51 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

West Deane Way Ultra – Blue Route | 36 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

West Deane Way Ultra – Red Route | 44 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

Surrey

Downslink Ultra | 38 miles | October 04, 2015 | website

Wales

Gower Ultra 50 | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Wiltshire

White Horse Trail Ultra – Black Route | 53 miles | October 14, 2015 | website

White Horse Trail Ultra – Red Route | 39 miles | October 14, 2015 | website

USA

Arizona

Canyon De Chelly Ultra | 55 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Flagstaff 56K Endurance Run | 56 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Flagstaff Sky Race 55K | 55 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Pony Express 12-Person Relay Race | 200 miles | October 09, 2015 | website

Pony Express 2-Person Relay Race | 200 miles | October 09, 2015 | website

Pony Express 6-Person Relay Race | 200 miles | October 09, 2015 | website

Arkansas

Arkansas Traveller 100 | 100 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

California

Boggs Mountain Boogie 50k | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Cuyamaca 100K Endurance Run | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Dick Collins Firetrails 50 | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Euchre Bar Massacre 50 M | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Owen’s Peak Man vs Horse 50K Trail Adventure | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Pacifica Summit Run 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Skyline to the Sea 50km | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Whoos in El Moro 50k | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Widowmaker Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Colorado

24 Hrs of Boulder – 100 K | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

24 Hrs of Boulder – 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

24 Hrs of Boulder – 50 K | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Animas Surgical Hospital Durango 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Florida

John Holmes 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Idaho

Foothills 50K Frenzy | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Illinois

Farmdale 33 Mile Trail Runs | 33 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Farmdale 50 Mile Ultra Trail Run | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Iowa

Market to Market Relay | Iowa | 75 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

The Runner’s Flat 50K | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Kansas

Heartland 100 Mile Race | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Lake Perry Rocks! 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Kentucky

Cloudsplitter 100K | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Cloudsplitter 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Cloudsplitter 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Louisiana

Children of the Cane 100K | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Children of the Cane 100 Miler | 100 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

Children of the Cane 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Maine

50K Run | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

50 Mile Run | 50 miles | October 11, 2015 | website

Maryland

BRRC Gunpowder Keg Ultra 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Ragnar Relay Washington D.C. | 200 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Massachusetts

50 M | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

TARC 100 | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Missouri

O. T. 50K| 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website
O. T. 50K Relay| 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Montana

Le Grizz Ultramarathon | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Ultramarathon | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Nebraska

Market to Market Relay | Nebraska | 78 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

New Hampshire

Pinnacle Ultra Challenge 50K | 50 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

New York

Can Lake 50 K | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Can Lake 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Tesla Hertz 100K Run | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Tesla Hertz 100 Mile Run | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Tesla Hertz 50K Run | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Tesla Hertz 50 Mile Run | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

North Carolina

Pilot Mountain to Hanging Rock Ultra 50K Run | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Pilot Mountain to Hanging Rock Ultra 50- Mile Run | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Oregon

Columbia River Power 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Pennsylvania

Blues Cruise 50k Trail Ultra | 50 kilometers | October 04, 2015 | website

Green Monster 50K Trail Challenge | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Oil Creek Trail Runs 100 Miles | 100 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Oil Creek Trail Runs 50K | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Oil Creek Trail Runs 50 Miles | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

South Carolina

Swamp Rabbit Urban Ultra 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Tennessee

Cumberland Trail 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Rock/Creek StumpJump 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Texas

100k | 100 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

50k | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Hunter Gatherer 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

McKinney Roughs 50K | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Survival Run: Hunter Gatherer | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Utah

Pony Express Trail 100 | 100 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

Pony Express Trail 50 | 50 miles | October 16, 2015 | website

Red Rock Relay Park City Edition | 65 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Virginia

GrindStone 100 | 101 miles | October 02, 2015 | website

Washington

Baker Lake 50k | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

Bigfoot 100k Endurance Run | 100 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

Bigfoot 120 Mile Endurance Run | 120 miles | October 09, 2015 | website

Defiance 50K | 50 kilometers | October 10, 2015 | website

West Virginia

West Virginia Trilogy – Day One 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 09, 2015 | website

West Virginia Trilogy – Day Two 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 10, 2015 | website

Wisconsin

Glacial 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 11, 2015 | website

Glacial 50M Trail Run | 50 miles | October 11, 2015 | website

The North Face Endurance Challenge Wisconsin Kettle Moraine State Park 50 Km | 50 kilometers | October 03, 2015 | website

The North Face Endurance Challenge Wisconsin Kettle Moraine State Park 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 03, 2015 | website

02:21:32 CLOSE

02:25:43

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Skyrunning goes global with The RUT and CBS News

Posted on September 18, 2015 by talkultra

If you think running a marathon is a feat in itself, imagine doing an ultra-marathon up a mountain. At “The Rut Mountain Race” in Big Sky, Montana, nearly 400 athletes from around the world gathered to compete across 31 miles. They cover more than 10,000 feet of elevation. The sport is known as “skyrunning.”

As part of the “CBS This Morning” series, “Pushing the Limits,” we take a look at the world’s elite athletes who are getting their high-altitude adrenaline rush.

Luke Nelson sums it up when he says:

“I run in the mountains because it gives me a freedom that I can’t find anywhere else…. I think the human body was meant to run; but this is pushing it!”

View the film here

http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/pushing-the-limits-skyrunning/?tag=facebook

You can read reports and view images from RUNTHERUT races below:

VK HERE

SKY HERE

ULTRA HERE

Ultra Pirineu 2015 Race Preview

Posted on September 14, 2015 by talkultra

The Skyrunner® World Series for 2015 for the Ultra distance draws to a close in Spain at the Ultra Pirineu. It’s amazing how time flies; it only seems weeks ago that I was writing about Transvulcania.

Taking place on September 201th, Ultra Pirineu follows on from the RUT and as such, it will be an exciting race.

Runners will assemble in the Cade Moixero National Park to do battle over a very challenging race. The 110km race is the main event and the one that gains the most attention. With 6800m of vertical gain it’s a race that will push each and every Skyrunners’ legs and lungs to the limit.

Luis Alberto Hernando, Skyrunning World and European Champion for the ultra distance will be looking to repeat his victory from 2014. Would you want to bet against him? Luis has been on fire in 2015 with victories at Transvulcania and Ice Trail Tarentaise. Add to this podium finishes at Tromso SkyRace and UTMB and for sure Luis will be a hot favourite for victory.

However, a certain Kilian Jornet running on home ground may well scupper Luis’s plans. Kilian has had a quitter year in 2015 as he has concentrated on his Alpinrunning projects but that did not stop repeating his 2014 victory at Hardrock 100 and in the process he now holds the course record for both directions.

“I am very excited about competing at home again as this was the very first race I competed in. There is an incredible level of competition this year, so a show is guaranteed.” – Kilian Jornet

And Kilian has hit the nail on the head, rising star of the sport Manuel Merillas (winner in 2011) will run. Manuel is still looking for the big win but a string of high placing and podium finishes will almost certainly guarantee that he is pushing the pace with the rest at the front.

Franco Colle just the other weekend won the RUT in the USA and has now decided to miss Tor des Geants to content the podium on Spain. Currently Franco leads the Skyrunner World ~Series for the ultra distance and he will bo looking to gain maximum points and the bonus that come with it to secure the overall position in the ranking, it won’t be an easy task!

Cristofer Clemente was 2nd at the RUT also and now lies 2nd on the ranking for the SWS. He did have some question marks over if he would race here in Spain due to the proximity of the USA race, however, I can’t help but think he will give the race a go and he will see what happens. At 110km it’s a long tough race for this late in the season.

UTMB duo, Miguel Heras and Tofol Castanyer both had troubled races this year on the big loop of Chamonix and so they will no doubt be looking to put the record straight here. As we all know, on their day they are 2 of the best ultra mountain runners in the world. They also both have a great history with this race.

Ricky Lightfoot has once again had another incredible 2015 mixing up his race distances and experiences with diverse races races such as Ultra Skymarathon Madeira, DoDo Trail in Mauritius and of course his local fell races in the UK. *may not race due to illness, me missed the Lakes Sky Ultra?

Jessed Hernandez placed 3^rd in 2014 and he will be looking to move up 1 or 2 places in 2015 but the odds may well be stacked against him with such a quality line-up. Yeray Duran, Philipp Reiter and Miguel Caballero will also contend the top 5 but there are more runners than places; who will come out on top?

Nuria Picas has made a home at Ultra Pirineu, it’s ‘her’ race and 2015 will be the 5^th time she will toe the line looking for another victory. Her recent blip at UTMB will soon be behind her and she will no doubt looking to put the record straight on home ground. We can all think back to that epic battle between Anna Frost, Emelie Forsberg and Nuria Picas in 2012.

“I am delighted to see that world renowned international athletes are once again coming here, it’s a race that deserves consideration.” – Nuria Picas

Emelie Forsberg ran her very first 80km race at Ultra Pirineu (then called Cavalls del Vent) in 2012. She placed 3^rd! What has followed has been an incredible rise in the sport of Skyrunning. While Nuria pursued the UTWT, Emelie has gone on to dominate Skyrunning races worldwide, the 2015 edition of Ultra Pirineu will once again see these two dominant and inspiring ladies once again go head-to-head. It’s an exciting prospect.

Nepalese sensation Mira Rai will also race. Her victory at the Mont-Blanc 80km turned heads and I think it’s fair to say that the 110km distance will suit her running style.

Anna Comet has been a revelation in 2015 and has consistently placed on the podium. Like Nuria, Anna is placing a great emphasis on Ultra Pirineu as she considers it a home race. The ‘home’ advantage really motivates and Anna’s recent non-racing will almost certainly mean that she will be fresh for an epic battle.

Ester Alves, Julia Boetger, Gemma Arenas and Roser Espanol will also be looking to mix it up at the front of the race. Ester in particular has seemed unstoppable in 2015 after going from one race to the next.

You can follow the stories through words and images on this website, via Twitter @talkultra, on Instagram @iancorlessphotography and on Facebook at facebook.com/iancorlessphotography.

In addition, the official Skyrunning Facebook page (here) and Twitter @skyrunning_com will have regular updates and news.

The RUT – 50km 2015 Race Images and Summary

Posted on September 6, 2015 by talkultra

Concluding an incredible weekend of Skyrunning, the RUT 50km which is the penultimate ultra in the Skyrunner World Series took place today (Sunday) in the resort of Big Sky, Montana. One of the key races in the 2015 Skyrunner® World Series this stunning race did not disappoint.

View and purchase the RUT IMAGES HERE

Overnight temperatures dropped and light snow had left a sprinkle over much of the 50k terrain. The 0600 start was below freezing and it was a good job that runners went straight into a 500m climb to get warm. The first 45-minutes were undertaken in darkness and then a most incredible sunrise welcomed a new day.

Covering 50km (31 miles) the race had 10,00ft (3040m) of vertical gain and loss. In the words of the Mike Foote and Mike Wolfe (Rut race directors), ‘There are sections of this course, including the ascent and traverse of Headwaters ridge, as well as the ascent and descent of Lone Peak, which are EXTREMELY STEEP & TECHNICAL with sections of exposure and potential rock fall hazard. This is a true mountain course so please treat it with the respect it deserves!’

To many a Skyrunner, that is a calling card for full-on, adrenaline packed mountain running adventure. Restricted to just 600-runners, demand for the RUT 50km was always going to be high and this was reflected in the race selling out.

Containing 60% single-track, 25% dirt road and 15% off-trail, the RUT really did provide a spectacular race. As with all races over the RUT weekend, the 50km event had wave starts that would be offset by 5-minute gaps. The elites ere released in wave 1 and 3 other waves followed.

What transpired was a stunning day of racing. Franco Colle from Italy followed on from his impressive podium placing at Mont-Blanc 80km and ran a cool, calm and controlled race. Pushing from the front he looked relaxed throughout and he crossed the finish line in 5:16:58. His time was impressive but outside Kilian Jornet’s 2014 winning time.

Cristofer Clemente has consistently shown excellent results in 2015 and is a prime contender for the Skyrunner World Series, he backed this up once again time trailing Franco throughout the race but running a strong and secure 2^nd place in 5:19:28.

Matt Shyrock produced a breakthrough performance having placed outside the top 10 in 2014 to come through and take the final podium place in 5:29:00. His excitement and enthusiasm for his finish was clear for all to see with some great showboating.

Pre race favourites, Max King and Luke Nelson finished 6^th and 7^th respectively, Max on the line said, ‘that is quite some race!’

In the ladies, Emelie Forsberg followed on from her 2014 victory with a repeat win in 2015. Not only did she win but in the process set a new course record! This is all the more remarkable considering that Emelie has raced all 3 races of the runtherut weekend. Incredible. Her time 6:25:44.

Continuing to show incredible promise as a future star of Skyrunning, Hillary Allen followed on from a podium place at Mont-Blanc 80km to finish 2^nd here in Montana. Her time 6:30:15 was under Emelie’s 2014 course record! It was no easy result though, just before the 18-mile mark Hillary went of course with 3 other ladies and this opened up the doorway for eventual 3^rd placed lady, Martina Valmassoi to move into 2^nd. Hillary dug deep though and gained back her 2^nd place.

Martina Valmassoi running her first ultra had a breakthrough performance to finish on the podium in 6:41:42. It was quite a run.

Ashley Erba, a pre race favourite had been leading the ladies in the early stages but was forced to withdraw from the race having received extreme blister on the soles of both feet.

With the racing over and done, Big Sky Resort, the two ‘Mikes,’ Montana, the Lone Peak mountain and a stunning weekend of favourable weather has well and truly made the RUNTHERUT weekend a great showcase for Skyrunning in the USA and worldwide.

Results:

Emelie Forsberg 06:25:44
Hillary Allen 06:30:15
Martina Valmassoi 06:41:42

Franco Colle 05:16:58
Cristofer Clemente 05:19:28
Matt Shyrock 05:29:00

The RUT – 25km Race 2015 Race Images and Summary

Posted on September 5, 2015 by talkultra

New for 2015 and forming an integral part of the Skyrunner® World Series, the inaugural RUT 25km is considered by many to be a pure Skyrunning race. At times, the race offers extremely steep and technical terrain that demands and requires 100% respect. It’s not for the feint hearted.

Covering 25km (16.4 miles) what this race lacks in distance is made up for in technicality and challenge. With 7500ft of vertical gain this 25km course is basically the RUT 50km on steroids as it includes all 3 major climbs of its bigger brother. The high point comes at Lone Peak (11,166ft) and the combination of altitude, technical running and exposure makes this one seriously great race that guarantees a good, hard and painful time!

Like the VK, the 25km event had wave starts to reduce congestion and to promote good safety along the route. 4 waves started at 5-minute offsets with the elite runners heading off in wave 1 departing at 0800.

Overnight rain had disappeared by the morning leaving a bright, sunny but very cold morning. The summit of Lone Peak was shrouded in mist and cloud and would remain that way until the bulk of wave 1 runners passed the summit.

View and purchase the RUT IMAGES HERE

Following on from Friday’s VK victory, Remi Bonnet ran a clear race from the front and never really looked back. He opened a gap in the early stages and extended it as the race went on. Climbing up to Lone Peak summit he had over 4-minutes in Tadei Pivk and Marco De Gasperi who were pursued by Joseph Gray.

Remi’s victory never looked in doubt, even the very technical challenge of the descent could not dislodge his stranglehold on the race. At the finish he was a clear victor by over 3.5 minutes ((02:58:55) from Tadei Pivk and Marco De Gasperi who were separated only by 1-second, 3:02:32 and 3:01:33 respectively.

Joseph Gray finished 4^th and looked very disappointed, so disappointed he didn’t collect his finishers medal. Pere Rullan and Martin Anthamatten rounded out the top-5.

Lady on fire Megan Kimmel once again pulled off another incredible Skyrunning victory in the ladies showing that she is ‘the’ lady to beat at the moment. In the early stages of the race she ran with the front group and eventually she pulled away with Laura Orgue, the Friday VK winner.

On the slopes of Lone Peak Megan was in the lead and then at the summit she made a move, just like in the Dolomites and build away for an incredible victory over a tired Laura Orgue; 3:35:02 and 3:40:49 respectively. Maite Maiora ran a sold race and had the race been 1-mile longer, she may possibly have taken 2^nd place, her time of 3:41:06 showing how close it was.

The weather and altitude played a key factor in the 25km and on the line many of the runners expressed how technical the downhill section was. Showing incredible recovery from the VK, Yngvild Kaspersen closed ranks in the later stages of the race and took 4^th place ahead of Emelie Forsberg and Stevie Kremer. Emelie intends to run all 3-races of runtherut this weekend.

Attention now turns to Sundays 50km event which will start at 0600 local time.

Results:

Megan Kimmel 03:35:04
Laura Orgue 03:40:49
Maite Maiora 03:41:06

Remi Bonnet 02:58:55
Tadei Pivk 03:01:32
Marco De Gasperi 03:01:33

2nd Gallery

THE RUT – LONE PEAK VK 2015 Race Images and Summary

Posted on September 5, 2015 by talkultra

Starting at the Big Sky Resort base area, the Lone Peak VK offered Skyrunners a lung busting ascent to the summit of Lone Peak (11,166ft) in just a little less than 5k.

It may not be the steepest VK on the Skyrunner® World Series but it certainly is one of the most dramatic and the views from the summit are quite incredible.

In contrast to 2014, the first half of the VK route had a change based on operational concerns of Big Sky Resort. So this year, the sole hole biking trail is a no go and the route takes on a steeper and more direct route following the ethos and principals of Skyrunning.

Heading up Huntley Hollow and Calamity Jane ski runs the route headed up to the Bone Crusher and the impressive Alto ridge. Here it gets steep, gnarly and technical and the long haul, hands-on-knees grunt continued to the summit. The final sections had a potential for rockfall, exposure and other objective hazards.

View and purchase the RUT IMAGES HERE

Starting in waves, the elite runners departed first on the stroke of 1500 in a mass group. The early stages were always going to be about finding a rhythm, working out a good pace and then looking for a prime position before the more technical and challenging terrain started. Remi Bonnet and Laura Orgue pushed from the start and both looked very strong at the midway point before the more technical sections started.

In the ladies race Morgan Arritola looked to be closing the gap with 500m covered but Laura found the extra reserves to push on to the line. Ladies rising star, Yngvild Kaspersen ran a strong race and relegated ladies Tromso VK winner, Emelie Forsberg with a strong push for 3^rd.

Remi Bonnet was in a class of his own on this course and finished clear of Matterhorn Ultraks winner, Martin Anthamatten and Ferran Teixido moved up from 4^th place and 500m to 3^rd at the line.

At the summit Remi Bonnet arrived first looking spent with the effort in a time of 45:58:04. It was a dominating performance and a confirmation of a star in the making. Holding on for 2^nd was Martin Anthamatten and 3^rd place was Ferran Teixido in 47:38:78 and 48:04:89. respectively.

In the ladies’ race Laura Orgue finished a strong 1st 1-minute clear of Morgan Arritola 2^nd and Yngvild Kaspersen 3^rd. Times were 52:20:36, 53:16:79 and 55:15:05.

The weather and altitude played a key factor in the Lone Peak VK and when a race starts on or around 2000m, a runner’s altitude adaptation was always going to play a key part.

Attention now turns to Saturday and the 25km event. This event will prove to be fast and furious with mixed terrain that includes single track, jeep roads, alpine ridge lines and the summit of the iconic Lone Peak.

Results:

Laura Orgue 52:20:36
Morgan Arritola 53:16:79
Yngvild Kaspersen 55:15:05

Remi Bonnet 45:58:04
Martin Anthamatten 47:38:78
Ferran Teixido 48:04:89

Episode 94 – Glen Coe Skyline and UTMB

Posted on September 3, 2015 by talkultra

Episode 94 of Talk Ultra is all about the Salomon Glen Coe Skyline and UTMB. We have some post race chats with Emelie Forsberg, Florian Reichert and RD, Shane Ohly about Glen Coe and then we have a full and in-depth interview with race winner, Joe Symonds. UTMB was a race of drama and instead of speaking to the top 3, we chat with Damian Hall and Richard Ashton, two Brits who finished in the top 50. Niandi Carmont is my co-host

00:09:30 NEWS

Help Nepal – Nepal images ‘FACES of NEPAL’ – order a print and all funds donated to Nepal charities https://iancorless.org/2015/04/28/nepal-appeal-nepalearthquake/

You will notice a few changes in episode 93 of Talk Ultra. Yes, we have some new music, a new logo and over the coming weeks and months we will start to add some new interview sections.

GLEN COE SKYLINE

1 – Joe Symonds 7:36:21

2 – Mark Harris 7:44:51

3 – Jayson Cavill 7:49:42

00:13:30 INTERVIEW FLORIAN REICHERT

1 – Emelie Forsberg 7:44:12 and 2nd overall

2 – Jasmin Paris 7:54:29

3 – Sarah Ridgway 9:21:44

00:25:15 INTERVIEW EMELIE FORSBERG

00:31:56 INTERVIEW SHANE OHLY

UTMB

1 – Xavier Thevenard 21:09:15

2 – Luis Alberto Hernando 21:57:17

3 – David Laney 21:59:42

1 – Nathalie Mauclair 25:15:33

2 – Uxue Fraille 26:29:35

3 – Denise Zimmerman 27:33:51

LEADVILLE

1 – Ian Sharman 16:33:54

2 – Kyle Pietari 18:16:04

3 – Juan Carlos Sagatsume 18:29:27

1 – Liza Howard 19:34:09

2 – Kara Henry 19:54:08

3 – Danielle Hilson 22:28:00

ULTRAVASEN

1 – Jonas Buud 5:45:08

2 – Max King 6:06:11

3 – Didrik Hermansen 6:08:10

1 – Jasmin Nunige 7:02:35

2 – Ida Nilsson 7:05:56

3 – Petra Kindlund 7:34:02

00:56:31 INTERVIEW

JOE SYMONDS

01:51:05 INTERVIEW

RICHARD ASHTON

02:26:54 INTERVIEW

DAMIAN HALL

UP & COMING RACES

Australia

New South Wales

Great North Walk 100 km | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Great North Walk 100 Miles | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Queensland

Glasshouse 100 km | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Glasshouse 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Victoria

Walhalla Wound-Up – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Austria

“GRAWE” 50km Lauf | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

“NKE Austria” 100km Lauf | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Wörthersee Trail-Maniac 114 K | 114 kilometers | September 18, 2015 | website

Wörthersee Trail Maniak 114K Superior | 114 kilometers | September 18, 2015 | website

Canada

Alberta

Lost Soul 100 Km Ultra | 100 kilometers | September 11, 2015 | website

Lost Soul 100 Mile Ultra | 100 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Lost Soul 50 Km Ultra | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

British Columbia

50K Cody Claim Run | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Finlayson Arm 50k Fat Ass | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Golden Ultra | 80 kilometers | September 18, 2015 | website

Mount Robson 50km Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Ontario

Haliburton Forest Trail 100 Mile Race | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Haliburton Forest Trail 50 km Race | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Haliburton Forest Trail 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Sears Great Canadian Run – Toronto | 141 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Quebec

Chute du Diable 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Chute du Diable 80 km | 80 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Croatia

Ucka Trail – 73 km | 73 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Denmark

Nordjylland

100 Miles – Around the isle of Mors | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

France

Alpes-Maritimes

Ultra-Trail Côte d’Azur Mercantour | 140 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Bas-Rhin

Grand Trail du HK ” The Magic Trail” | 52 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Bouches-du-Rhône

Grand Raid de Camargue | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Isère

Ultra Trail du Vercors | 88 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Lot

Figeac – Conques | 208 kilometers | September 17, 2015 | website

Trail Vallée Cere et Dordogne – 53 km | 53 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Pas-de-Calais

Trail de la côte d’Opale – 62 km | 62 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Rhône

La Nuit des Carbones – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Vendée

Bol d’Air – 50 km | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Vosges

L’infernal Trail des Vosges – 160 km | 158 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

L’infernal Trail des Vosges – 72 km | 72 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Germany

North Rhine-Westphalia

P-Weg Ultramarathon | 73 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Rhineland-Palatinate

Dorint-RUN50 | 50 kilometers | September 18, 2015 | website

Greece

Athens-Sparta | 245 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Iceland

Run Iceland Adventure Trail | 110 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

India

Jammu and Kashmir

Khardung La Challenge | 72 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Tamil Nadu

Chennai Trail Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Ireland

Munster

Dingle Ultra Marathon | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Kerry Way Ultra | 120 miles | September 04, 2015 | website

Italy

Aosta Valley

Tor des Géants | 330 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Liguria

Avatrail – 54 km | 54 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol

Sellaronda Trail Running | 56 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Veneto

Troi dei Cimbri | 53 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Japan

100 km | 100 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

50 km | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Netherlands

Gelderland

53 km | 53 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

New Zealand

Marton-Wanganui Ultramarathon | 66 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Norway

Telemark’s Toughest | 81 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Poland

7 Valleys Run Ultramarathon of the Festival | 100 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Bieg 7 Dolin – Ultramaraton – 100 km | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Bieg 7 Dolin – Ultramaraton – 66 km | 66 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Portugal

180 km | 180 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Romania

Ciucas X3 Ultramaraton | 105 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Dracula 106K | 106 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Dracula 106K 2-Day Stage Race | 106 kilometers | September 04, 2015 | website

Vlad Tepes 52K | 52 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Singapore

Craze Ultra 100 miles | 100 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Craze Ultra 101 km | 101 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Craze Ultra 78 km | 78 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Slovenia

Marathon Celje-Logarska dolina – 75 km | 75 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

South Africa

Bonitas Sunday Mont-Aux-Sources Challenge | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Hout is Goud Day-Breaker | 80 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Spain

Catalonia

Ultra Trail dels Comtes d’Erill | 82 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Principality of Asturias

Ultra Trail Macizo de Ubiña “Los Güeyos del Diablo” | 64 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Switzerland

Valais

Trail des Dents-du-Midi – Trail découverte | 57 kilometers | September 18, 2015 | website

Vaud

Ultratour du Leman | 173 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

United Kingdom

Anglesey

Ring o’ Fire | 131 miles | September 04, 2015 | website

Argyll and Bute

Tiree Ultramarathon | 35 miles | September 06, 2015 | website

Buckinghamshire

Infinity Run – 100 miles in 24hrs | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Cumbria

Lakes Sky Ultra | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Gloucestershire

Cotswold Way Challenge Multistage Ultra | 57 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Northern Ireland

Titanic Quarter 101k | 101 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Titanic Quarter 50k | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Oxfordshire

Thames Path Challenge 100km | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Thames Path Challenge 50km | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Powys

10 Peaks Brecon Beacons – Long Course | 89 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

10 Peaks Brecon Beacons – Short Course | 58 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Shropshire

Double or Nothing | 70 miles | September 18, 2015 | website

Stockport

Bullock Smithy | 56 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Suffolk

Ultra Tour of Suffolk | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

USA

Alaska

Klondike Trail of ’98 International Road Relay | 175 kilometers | September 11, 2015 | website

Arizona

Paatuwaqatsi Run 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

California

Headlands 100mi | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Headlands 50mi | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Headlands 75mi | 75 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Los Pinos 50K | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Lost Sierra 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Robinson Flat 50k | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Tahoe 200 | 200 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Colorado

Devil on the Divide 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Flaming Foilage Relay | 160 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Hideaway Hundred 100 Miler | 101 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Hideaway Hundred 50K | 33 miles | September 06, 2015 | website

Hideaway Hundred 50 Miler | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Run Rabbit Run 100 Mile Ultra Marathon | 100 miles | September 18, 2015 | website

Solemates Silverton 100 Miler | 100 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Tommyknocker 100K | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Tommyknocker 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Florida

The Pinellas Trail Challenge | 46 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Wildcat 100 km | 100 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Wildcat 100 Miler | 100 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Idaho

Moscow Mountain Madness | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Illinois

50K | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Double-Ender 25k | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Evergreen Lake Ultra and a Half | 51 miles | September 13, 2015 | website

Evergreen Lake Ultras | 34 miles | September 13, 2015 | website

The Hennepin Hundred – 100M | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

The Hennepin Hundred – 100M Relay | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

The Hennepin Hundred – 50M | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Kansas

Hawk 100 | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Hawk 50 | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Massachusetts

TARC Fall Classic 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

TARC Fall Classic 50 M | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

The Rock Run | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Michigan

Freak 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Hallucination 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

LSD 100K | 100 kilometers | September 11, 2015 | website

Peace, Love & 50 mile | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Minnesota

Superior Sawtooth 100 Mile | 100 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Superior Trail 50 Mile | 50 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Missouri

Go! KT82 Trail Relay | 82 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Montana

The Rut 50K | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Nebraska

Bohemian Alps 50 Kilometer Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

New York

Shawangunk Ridge 74-Mile Trail Run/Hike | 74 miles | September 18, 2015 | website

North Carolina

Weymouth Woods 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Oklahoma

3 Half Marathons in 3 Days | 39 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

3 Marathons in 3 Days | 78 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Do-Wacka-Do 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

DoWackaDo 50 Mile Trail Run | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

DoWackaDo Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Oregon

McKenzie River Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Pennsylvania

Groundhog Fall 50K | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Pine Creek Challenge 100K | 100 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

Pine Creek Challenge 100M | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Tennessee

Stanky Creek 50K | 50 kilometers | September 13, 2015 | website

Texas

50K | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Utah

Red Rock Relay Zion Edition | 187 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Wasatch Front 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

Vermont

Jay Peak 50K Ultra | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Virginia

Iron Mountain 50 mile Trail Run | 50 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Odyssey 40 Mile Trail Ultra | 40 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

The Blude Ridge Relay | 208 miles | September 11, 2015 | website

The Ring – Massanutten Trail Circuit Run | 71 miles | September 05, 2015 | website

Washington

Day Two- (September 7) 50k | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

First Call Veterans Day 50K (September) | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

PCT Bunker to Bonneville 50K | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Plain 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | September 12, 2015 | website

Volcanic 50 Mt St. Helens | 50 kilometers | September 05, 2015 | website

Wisconsin

Lake Michigan Trail 50K | 50 kilometers | September 06, 2015 | website

Wyoming

Sundance 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | September 12, 2015 | website

03:00:00 CLOSE

03:05:43

http://traffic.libsyn.com/talkultra/Episode_94_GlenCoe_UTMB.mp3

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

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

Website – talkultra.com

Matterhorn Ultraks 2015 Race Summary

Posted on August 26, 2015 by talkultra

The 3^rd edition of the Skyrunning Matterhorn Ultraks Trail took place at the weekend in Zermatt. Once again, the sun and the stars of the Trail kept on shining all day long. The Swiss Martin Anthamatten imposed himself on the men’s main distance, part of the Skyrunner® World Series, while the Italian Elisa Desco won the female’s race. Nearly 1’800 participants took the start of the “16K”, “30K”, “46K” and “VZR”.

This year, the Spanish armada of the Trail couldn’t cope with the local runner and ambassador of the Matterhorn Ultraks, Martin Anthamatten. “To win such an important race here in Zermatt is a real dream. It’s for sure the greatest victory of my career”, commented the Valais winner after his race. He ran ahead the Spanish Manuel Merillas (4:54’32’’) and Aritz Egea (4:56’13’’). Just shortly ahead until he reached the Schwarzsee, Anthamatten finally managed to clearly step ahead over the last 20kms.

On the women’s side, the winner’s podium remained unchanged with the exception of the Italian Elisa Desco, who took her revenge on Stevie Kremer (USA). Second last year after the American, she managed the perfect race this year, imposing herself in 5h23’46’’ and only 59 seconds ahead of her rival, but still not breaking her record. The third place goes once again to the Spanish Maite Maiora (5:31’30’’). To note that the American Megan Kimmel dominated the race until the last quarter, she had to abandon a few kilometers from Zermatt.

In total, 1797 adults and 101 children of 58 nationalities and coming from 46 different countries took part in the third edition of the Matterhorn Ultraks Trail. When crossing the finish line, they all looked radiant after their experience within/through an outstanding mountain environment. It was unique! The barrier in Riffelalp with the sound of the alphorns echoing in front of the Matterhorn – This was one of the most beautiful moments in my life. I truly had tears in my eyes”, commented Antoine, participant of the “16K”. At the same time, the atmosphere was festive all through the day at the “Espace Ultraks”, where hundreds of spectators had come to support their favorite participant. Thanks to the video screen, they were able to follow the most significant moments from the heart of the village of Zermatt.

« 46K » MEN
1. MARTIN ANTHAMATTEN (SUI) 4:45’11”532
2. MERILLAS MOLEDO MANU (ESP) 4:54’32”702
3. ARITZ EGEA (ESP) 4:56’13”303

« 46K » WOMEN
1. DESCO ELISA (ITA) 5:23’46”293
2. KREMER STEVIE (USA) 5:24’45”578
3. MAITE MAIROA (ESP) 5:31’30”936

The inscriptions for 2016 will open during the month of September. Stay tuned: www.matterhorn.ultraks.com

Images by ® Juerg Kaufmann

Press Release by Matterhorn Ultraks race office

Salomon Glen Coe Skyline 2015 – Race Images and Summary

Posted on August 22, 2015 by talkultra

Today, the Salomon Glen Coe Skyline well and truly cemented itself as one of the ‘must-do’ events not only in the UK but the world. At times, it has been a rocky road putting this event on. Not from an organisation point of view I must add but from negative publicity about inappropriate use of the mountains and of course the D A N G E R and the ‘risk-of-death’ that may occur.

Many Scottish papers said that the trails would be strewn with runners going fast and ruining the day of many a mountain lover….

As predicted, the reality was far from the scare mongering of a select few.

Mountain lovers were on the mountains and you know what? They stopped, cheered, applauded and encouraged what (in their words) these ‘super humans’ were doing.

Skyrunning World and European Champion for the ultra distance, Emelie Forsberg won the ladies race and placed 2^nd overall. Her performance was quite literally ‘off-the-scale.’ She relegated several of the UK’s top mountain runners to lower positions and post race she said:

Waow! Seriously the best race in this distance. Super technical ridges and gullies (think Trofeo Kima but no via ferrata!) some parts very runnable on nice but still tricky trails. Glen Coe I’m thrilled to have run this race. Thanks to your amazing organization. Even though it was hard all of the nature and the course made me go fast. Thanks all of you standing along the course, you made me feel so welcomed here!

It was a sentiment echoed by the recent Lakeland 50 runner, Jayson Cavill who placed 3^rd man and 4^th overall:

“Oh my gosh I can’t believe it!! What an amazing race, I am too far gone to put into words just how totally nails that route was, technical descents that went on forever, long steeeeeep climbs that went on for even longer. Great climbing around the ridges and rock faces, I am so so chuffed I really feel like I got the best out of myself today – even if my legs were shot after the first 10 miles – it did hurt a lot! Such a great experience.”

Scotland played ball today too. The previous day’s rain eased over night and the runners were greeted with a perfect day until just after midday. As predicted the cloud came in and with it showers. But at this stage the runners just had one thing in mind; the finish.

In the early stages of the race, it was all going to script with Joe Symonds, Es Tressider and a handful of other top male talent dictating the pace and Emelie Forsberg was holding a slender lead over the 2015 Berghaus Dragons Back winner, Jasmin Paris.

Climbing Curved Ridge was for many, the highlight of the race. Coming just 6-miles in, it was a real brutal way to kick off what would be the UK’s most extreme day in the mountains. For those who don’t know, The Curved Ridge route ascended Stob Dearg (Buachaille Etive Mor) via the exposed Grade III scramble (a ‘Moderate’ graded rock climb).

What followed was a master class of pure Skyrunning by Joe and Emelie. They pushed the pace, extended the gap between the competition and when they entered the Aonach Eagach Ridge barring an accident, the race for the respective top slots was over. However, Joe was only 10-minutes ahead of Emelie… could she close the gap?

Yes!

But only by a couple of minutes. Joe crossed the line in 7:36:21 and Emelie 7:44:19.

“My overall reflections on this race are that the route was absolutely phenomenal. I can’t think of anywhere else on mainland UK that could offer such quality of extreme mountain running. It is no overstatement to say that this really was a first for us in Britain. Elsewhere Emilie has already given her thoughts on how it compares to other races of this distance across the globe. To organise this event was of course brave, given the objective danger involved. But bravery often pays off, and you can mitigate against the dangers, as the organisers did, by taking appropriate safety precautions and vetting participants carefully.” – Joe Symonds

Mark Harris and Jayson Cavill finished 2^nd and 3^rd men after pre-race favourite Es Tressider tired over the final miles.

Jasmin Paris once again produced another top notch result placing 2^nd behind Emelie and 5^th overall in 7:54:29, just 10-minutes back from the Skyrunning World Champion. Sarah Ridgway rounded out the ladies’ podium in 9:21:44.

148 runner started the 1^st edition of the Salomon Glen Coe Skyline and currently (at the time of writing) 24 have withdrawn from the race. This low drop out rate is a testament to the strict vetting procedure that was put in place by race director, Shane Ohly.

The buzz post race is one of adrenaline, stories and how the Salomon Glen Coe Skyline is the hardest race they have ever done.

The stage is now set. This race is set to become a beacon of Skyrunning, not only in the UK but worldwide.

Expect great things for 2016!

“What a great closer of a long, successful and satisfying season: #glencoeskyline had everything (and more) of a skyrace I expected! It was by far the most technical, most demanding, most dramatic and most scenic race I ever did! It’s amazing what the organizers around Shane Ohly put together here in Scotland. I feel deeply priviledged that I could’ve been part of the inaugural race of what will become an epic on the skyrunning calendar! Thanks for having me here and thanks for your support! I went into the race with a minor injury, but up to the highest point I felt really good. Then I took a tumble on a technical downhill and lost a bit of confidence going down, finishing in 17th place in 8:45 h. After all I’m just so happy and satisfied with a great day out in the mountains and an amazing visit to Scotland! – Florian Reichert

Full results are available HERE

The Salomon Glen Coe Website HERE

Skyrunning UK HERE

RESULTS

Joe Symonds 7:36:21

Mark Harris 7:44:51

Jayson Cavill 7:49:42

Emelie Forsberg 7:44:19 (2^nd overall)

Jasmin Paris 7:54:29

Sarah Ridgway 9:21:44

Matterhorn Ultraks 2015 Preview

Posted on August 21, 2015 by talkultra

The 3^rd edition Matterhorn Ultraks 46K kicks off on Saturday, August 22. As the name suggests, the magic Matterhorn mountain provides a stunning backdrop to this iconic race.

Stevie Kremer, 2014 world champion for the combined title and race winner of 2014, return to Zermatt and will look to defend her title. Recent success in America and 4^th place at Sierre-Zinal shows the pocket rocket is in form!

Italian Elisa Desco, placed 3^rd at Sierrie-Zinal just 2 weeks ago and has had a mixed 2015 so far. Placing 2^nd here last year she will without doubt look to take the top slot.

Megan Kimmel is on fire on 2015 and is my hot tip for victory in Zermatt. A stunning victory at the Dolomites Skyrace and 2^nd at Sierre-Zinal shows that the American not only has climbing and descending legs but also plenty of speed.

Maite Maiora, currently ranked third on the Skyrunner® World Series always is a strong and consistent performer, Azara Garcia de Los Salmones has struggled with injury and currently it is questionable if she will run. Paola Cabrerizo, placed 2nd at Zegama-Aizkorri and may well contend the podium, Anna Comet Pascua has been a revelation in 2015 and Eva Maria Moreda.

Stephanie Jimenez and Czech Anna Strakova along with Holland’s Ragna Debats are top 5 contenders.

Italy’s Tadei Pivk currently leads the SWS ranking with two straight wins in Zegama and Dolomites, without doubt he is a strong contender for the win.

Spain’s Manuel Merillas and Romanian Ionut Zinca however would love to beat Tadei in the pursuit for the top of the podium. Ranked 2nd and 3rd respectively in the SWS. Britain’s Tom Owens may well stir up the apple cart and has all the ability to win this race.

Aritz Egea was 3^rd last year and is always a contender for the top-5. Sintu Vives and Jessed Hernandez are among other strong Spaniards and Moroccan Hassan Ait Chaou and Norwegian Eirik Haugsnes will place in the top-10 if all goes well/

Tromsø SkyRace® winner, Jonathan Albon may well be the surprise podium contender. He is an obstacle racing world champion who surprised everyone in Norway.

The records to beat? Kilian Jornet’s 2013 time of 4h43’05” and Stevie Kremer’s 2014 record of 5h18’43”.

The 46 km course takes on a tough 3,600m of ascent and descent. The famous Gornergrat observation station marks the highest point of the race at 3,100m altitude, overlooking the Grenz Glacier and Monte Rosa, Europe’s second highest summit. The entire course is overshadowed by the iconic Matterhorn peak.

Nearly 700 runners from 34 countries will be toeing the line in Zermatt Saturday.

Some 2,000 participants from 44 countries will participate overall in the weekend’s four events – a 30% increase on last year’s figures.

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Argentina

Australia

New South Wales

Queensland

Victoria

Western Australia

Canada

Alberta

Nova Scotia

Ontario

Quebec

Croatia

Finland

Eastern Finland

France

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Aude

Calvados

Essonne

Haute-Corse

Loire-Atlantique

Pyrénées-Orientales

Somme

Germany

Bavaria

North Rhine-Westphalia

Greece

Hong-Kong

India

National Capital Territory of Delhi

Isle of Man

Italy

Emilia-Romagna

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Piedmont

Tuscany

Umbria

Japan

Latvia

Nepal

Netherlands

Gelderland

New Zealand

Poland

Portugal

South Africa

Spain

Aragon

Castile and León

Valencian Community

Sweden

Switzerland

Valais

Vaud

Taiwan

United Kingdom

Bedford

Cornwall

Cumbria

Derbyshire

East Sussex

Essex

Herefordshire

Lancashire

Leicestershire

Norfolk

Northamptonshire

North Yorkshire

Oxfordshire

Shropshire

Somerset

Surrey

Wales

Wiltshire

USA

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Florida