Salomon Skyrun in South Africa faces extreme conditions

Posted on November 18, 2013 by talkultra

Lady Grey, the start of the 2013 Salomon Skyrun powered by Red Bull, was ravaged by some of the worst weather seen in the 16 year history of this extreme race. Testing from the begining with monsoon conditions greeting the runners at the 4am start on Saturday morning, fierce winds gusting up to 80km/hour were the order of the day as rain and low cloud cover made visibility very poor. The runners were battered by these conditions throughout the day, as the temperatures plummeted and the terrain became very tricky for both athletes and marshals. The very real risk of sever hypothermia and exposure to the brutal elements, left event organisers with no other option but to shorten the race. Always a difficult decision however the safety of runners was top priority. The Salomon Skyrun is an extreme mountain challenge at the best of times but when conditions are as hard as during this year’s race, the need to carry all compulsory equipment as well as a solid event organisation are critical to ensure that all athletes come off the mountain safely. “This year’s race will be spoken about for many years to come by all who were at the Salomon Skyrun 2013 and can only add to the reputation that makes this race one of the toughest ultra-mountain runs in South Africa, if not the world” said Race Director Adrian Saffy.

The Skyrun Lite remained unaffected by the decision and all athletes that reached Balloch completed the race in its entirety. The Skyrun Lite was won by Chris Cronje, with Murray Sanders in 2^nd place and Justin Short in 3^rd. The Ladies Lite was won by Laura O’ Donoghue, with Taryn Mc Donald in 2^nd and Janneke Laesk in 3^rd.

Iain Don-Wauchope took 1^st position in the shortened Men’s full route, with Hylton Dunn in 2^nd and Steven Erasmus in 3^rd. The runners will however have to wait another year in order to take a crack at 2012 winner Ryan Sandes’ lightening quick record of 12hrs36min. Salomon sponsored Sandes did not compete in this year’s event as he will be racing in The San Francisco 50 Miler at the beginning of December. In the ladies race, 1^st place in the full route went to Annemien Ganzevoort, with 2^nd going to Su Don- Wauchope and 3^rd to Tatum Prins.

There is no doubt that athletes will look back on this year’s running of the legend that has become the Salomon Skyrun with a mixture of frustration, relief and respect as so well put by AJ Calitz “ I was humbled by the route, weather and our Maker….felt pretty small out there in the mountains. The fact that everyone is safe is testimony to Pure Adventures incredible team. Well done Mike and Adrian, your team and the mountain rescue crews. 2013 is a year I will never forget…all the athletes are truly bound together by this EPIC experience. See you in 2014.”

For full results and pictures please visit www.skyrun.co.za

Images ©kelvintrautman

Results:

Men’s 100km

Iain Don-Wauchope
Hylton Dunn
Steven Erasmus

Ladies 100km

Annemien Ganzevoort
Su Don- Wauchope
Tatum Prins

Lite Men’s:

Chris Cronje
Murray Sanders
Justin Short

Ladies Lite:

Laura O’ Donoghue
Taryn Mc Donald
Janneke Laesk

2013 Salomon Skyrun powered by Red Bull

Posted on November 5, 2013 by talkultra

ARE YOU READY TO RUN IN THE SKY?

Trail runners and adventure junkies from all over the world are putting their final preparations together for the 2013 Salomon Skyrun powered by Red Bull, that will be taking place in Lady Grey on the 16^th of November 2013. Now in its 16^th year, the race has become known as one of the must-do ultra-wilderness-mountain-runs in the world. “The Salomon SkyRun is an Epic 100km Mountain run considered by many athletes to be the toughest Trail Run in South Africa. The event is made up of two options; the SkyRun Lite, a 65km one day run, or the big daddy of trail, the 100km SkyRun,” explains Race Director and Organiser, Michael de Haast from Pure Adventures. “What makes this event so unique is that it is fully self-supported and athletes must navigate themselves between the check points on the route.”

Some top names taking part this year include two of the greatest adventurers of our time, the legendary Steve Black and Sean Wisedale. Other top names include AJ Calitz, Salomon athlete Ryno Griesel and Dreyer van Huyssteen amongst the men, and Megan Mackenzie, Annemien Ganzevoort and Donna Green amongst the ladies. The race starts in Lady Grey at 4am on Saturday the 16^th and will take the athletes anywhere between 14 – 30 hours.

Michael has some great advice for the athletes, especially those doing it for the first time, for those who might have forgotten and for those who would like to take part next year:

1. You will more than likely have stomach issues. You may vomit. Somewhere between Balloch and the Turn, you may see God (or a lion) and that, in and of itself, will make you want to puke. Don’t worry; you’re not going to die. Just puke, deal with it and move on. Don’t let “I couldn’t keep anything down” be your excuse for a DNF.

2. Sometime during the day you might feel like you have a tiny little pebble in your shoe. For the next hour or so you’ll have this little debate with yourself as to whether you should stop to take the pebble out or just wiggle your foot around a bit to move the pebble to a more comfortable position. Don’t have that debate! That little pebble is possibly the beginning of a blister. If you deal with it the minute you feel it you’ll probably be fine. If you ignore it or wiggle around with it you may end up finishing but you’ll do so with a dagger in your shoe.

3. Finally, you will undoubtedly have a moment between Skiwdor and Edgehill when you feel like you need a Quad Transplant. Everyone feels this way. The downhill pounding you put your legs through at Salomon Skyrun grinds the muscles in your quads into sausage. Don’t let it bother you. Assuming the pain you’re experiencing is less severe than someone sticking a red hot poker into your quad, just slow down, stay hydrated, and shuffle on.

One of the main reasons why the race was first started in the mid 1990’s was to raise awareness and fundraising for the local charities and home based care givers who look after the local children whose lives have been seriously rocked by misfortune. The charities rely heavily on the race for support, and the organisers encourage athletes and supporters to bring along any donations including stationary, writing paper, clothes and money. These donations make a huge difference to these children’s lives and the charity chosen for this year is the House of Light.

For more information please visit www.skyrun.co.za, and find them on facebook and twitter.

Anna Frost, Nick Clark & Michael Wardian join the line up for the 2014, The Coastal Challenge, Costa Rica

Posted on November 1, 2013 by talkultra

The words are still ringing true in my ears, ‘the tenth edition of The Coastal Challenge is going to be special, very special indeed’.

Just two months ago we announced that Philipp Reiter and Julia Bottger (both Salomon) would join Jo Meek (2^nd lady at the 2013 Marathon des Sables) and 2013 ladies TCC winner, Gemma Slaughter in the line up of the 2014 TCC. Today we go one step further…

Anna Frost (Salomon), Michael Wardian (The North Face) and Nick Clark (Pearl Izumi) have confirmed participation in the 2014 edition of the race making it one of the most competitive multi day races on the calendar for 2014. Rodrigo Carazo, race director for the TCC confirmed that it is a ‘dream come true’ to have such a quality field at the race.

‘I have raced in Costa Rica before doing The North Face Endurance Challenge Costa Rica in 2013 and I was lucky enough to have won it and I love racing in heat and humidity, makes me feel like home as Washington, DC gets sweltering in the summer months. I just try and stay small and move fast…’ Mike Wardian

The warmth of Costa Rica, blue skies, varied terrain; it’s a wonderful way to start a new year. The multi day format of the TCC allows all involved an incredible challenge.

Frosty (Anna Frost) when I spoke to her was really excited at the challenges that would lie ahead. ‘Costa Rica is exotic to me. A place I have never been but it intrigues me with images of its beautiful coast lines, native bush that seems a little bit like home (NZ) to me and the bright clear blue sea that is so luring. So when I heard there was a stage race that covers this coastline I wanted to know more.’

Frosty has raced over multiple days before, in early 2013 she participated in Chile and as we chat, she is currently in Nepal at the Manasulu Trail. One of the best female runners out there she is also a threat to many of the men she races as she proved with her stunning victory at the 2012 Transvulcania La Palma.

‘Stage racing is so fun. You are really going somewhere and you get to see so much along the way. The camps between stages are wonderful for spending time with new and old friends. It is really a challenge to get up each morning with aches and pains and stiffness from the days before but you know the whole team feels like that too so you just get moving and really enjoy the day.’

Michael Wardian is equally no stranger to multiple day racing. He is the highest ever placed American at the Marathon des Sables securing 3^rd overall at the 2010 edition. He is also a prolific racer, he has been a 50km champion three times, he has held multiple world records, raced the 135-mile Badwater Ultra Marathon in Death Valley and by contrast ran 2:21 at the US Olympic Trials in Houston, 2012.

‘I definitely enjoy the challenges of multi-day races as there are a lot of factors to account for besides just running and that intrigues me and inspires me. I think of all the things I learned in my previous outings at multi day races; to be as light as possible and balance your energy expenditure throughout the race but also, and this is a little contrarian, but to push more than you think possible because it is possible to recover quicker than you think. I also, take care of the small things because over a week of racing they can make all the difference.’

The Coastal Challenge is not self sufficient, it’s about covering distances in an efficient manner and as fast as possible but at the end of the day, your food is prepared and you can sleep and relax in your own tent, does that mean we can expect some fast running?

‘I actually have only done one multi-day without having to carry a kit, the Himalayan 100 Mile Stage race in India and without the responsibility to carry all you gear for the week, I expect the pace to be wicked fast and I am looking forward to pushing it.’

Michael will not have his own way at TCC, for sure Philipp Reiter will also be keen to push the pace but 2013 Grand Slam participant, Nick Clark will be joining the party in Costa Rica and if anyone knows how to run hard over multiple days, it’s him! In 2013, ‘Clarky’ raced Ian Sharman over four 100-mile races in 12-weeks. It was an incredible battle and one that made everyone in the ultra world turn around with open mouths. Not only did Sharman and Clarky beat the previous best accumulative time but they both each had victories and in the end it came down to the wire for the overall title. A title, which Sharman just won.

I asked Clarky about Costa Rica and how he will adapt for the heat and humidity for the 10^th edition of the TCC?

‘I actually haven’t been to Costa Rica before. Last year I raced in Nicaragua at the Fuego y Agua 100k. Nonetheless, I’m sure conditions will be much the same. Coming from mid-winter in Colorado, the transition to 95+ degree heat and high humidity in Central America is very tough, but I felt like I handled it decently last year. January and February have always been base-building months for me as I prepare for goal races in the summer, so I definitely won’t be sharp, but any time I toe a start line I have my race face on. That will be the case in Costa Rica for sure, especially as it looks like there will be good competition to race against.’

You have a reputation for being one of the best 100-mile runners out there, but what about multi day racing, is that something you have done before?

‘I’ve never done a multi stage race before, so I’m excited to work through some new race dynamics and strategies. I have also never been to Costa Rica, so I’m really looking forward to the vacation aspect too, especially as I’m planning on bringing out the whole family.’

That is a great aspect of the TCC race. It’s possible to bring families and the team are able to provide logistics and entertainment outside of the racing. It’s a fantastic selling point. As a runner you can fulfill your passions and desires but not at the expense of family time.

On a final note, I asked Clarky and Frosty what plans lie ahead for 2014. TCC is in February, so, a full year awaits!

‘Firstly, fingers crossed my body is healthy! And then I have so many things I want to achieve. I really want to race Hardrock 100 so I need to qualify with a 100-miler. I haven’t decided which one yet but maybe Wasatch. The new Buffalo Stampede Sky Run, Transvulcania, Mt Blanc 80km are all on my list, it’s very exciting!’

Frosty has a passion to run but her running is so much more. It’s about experiences, making friends and spending quality time, something that she is convinced she will find in Costa Rica.

Clarky loves to race and race hard, having consistently been close to winning at the iconic Western States, I wondered if that would become a primary target for 2014, after alI, he wouldn’t have three 100’s to follow it?

‘I plan on running Western States again in June, Hardrock 100 if I get in through the lottery, and then the Steamboat 100 in the fall. Other than that, I’ll be looking to take on a couple of FKT (Fastest Known Times) adventure routes in the mountains.’

The stage is set for the 2014 edition of the race. It will, without doubt be the most spectacular edition of the race and possibly the fastest. It’s not too late to get a last minute entry before the prices go up.

Steve Diederich, the UK agent for The Coastal Challenge has made several places available to coincide with this announcement. In addition, a 5% discount will be offered to the first five applicants.

Steve had this to say, ‘The TCC in 2014 is a vintage race in the making. Joining an exclusive club of iconic multi-day ultras, the excitement of what the 10^th edition has in store really is something that we all can’t wait to see unfold’

Race dates: 2nd to 9th February 2014

If you would like to attend the 2014 event and take advantage of a 5% discount, please use the contact box below.

The Coastal Challenge website HERE

IMAGES FROM THE 2013 EDITION ARE AVAILABLE HERE

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Thank you for your response. ✨

Episode 47 – Bowman, Abdelnoor, Hill, Forsberg

Posted on October 31, 2013 by talkultra

Episode 47 of Talk Ultra and we speak with Dylan Bowman, after placing 5th at Western States, Dylan was looking forward to tackling UTMB, however, things didn’t go quite to plan. Lakeland 50 winner, Ben Abdelnoor talks about training and fell running and we catch up with Tessa Hill who has just had a very succesful season on the Skyrunning circuit. Emelie Forsberg talks Diagonale des Fous in Smiles and Miles, Marc Laithwaite talks winter in Talk Training. We have the News, a Blog, Up and Coming races and Speedgoat talks golf…

Himalayan Trail – Philippe Gatta and Anna – https://iancorless.org/2013/10/29/great-himalayan-trail-philippe-anna-gatta/

00:13:42 NEWS

Diagonale des Fous (Reunion)

Men:

Francois D’Haene 22:58

Freddy Thevenin 25:40:16

Pascal Blanc 25:47:18

Ladies:

Nathalie Mauclair 28:45:32

Emelie Forsberg 31:29:05

Christine Benard 34:19:40

Javelina Jundred

Men:

Hal Koerner 14:56:53

Catlow Shipek 15:59:58

Joe Grant 16:50:10

Ladies:

Rhonda Claridge 18:34

Emz Eliason 20:58:55

Erin Churchill 22:56:21

La Course des Templiers

Men 1 Thomas Lorblanchet 6h43min04 2 Xavier Thévenard 6h47min46 3 Michel Lanne 6h48min34

Ladies 1 Nuria Picas Albets (ESP) 7h57min49 2 Malika Coutant (FRA 8h19min19 3 Aurélia Truel (FRA 8h21min47

Ceasers Camp 100-miles only 10 finishers

Stuart Wilkie 21:42

Mick Barnes 22:31

David Rowe 22:48

OMM

Elite

Nick Barrable and Gustav Bergman 9:21:12
Steve Birkinshaw and Kim Collinson 9:29:11
Sander Vaher and Timo Sild 9:35:45

Mixed -Jasmin Paris and Konrad Rawlik 11:40:00

Female – Heather Dawe and Andrea Priestley 14:43:27

Full results – http://www.theomm.com/events/omm2013/

00:38:50 15 MINS of FAME – Tessa Hill

01:00:00 BLOGS

‘And somehow I reached the finish line of my first 100 miler. I don´t have enough words to describe the feelings. It was bigger than all my races I have done before. This was just something greater.’

http://emelieforsberg.com

01:03:55 Interview – BEN ABDELNOOR

01:24:28 TALK TRAINING – with Marc Laithwaite

01:48:12 INTERVIEW

This week’s interview is with Dylan Bowman. Dylan has not been running ultras for too long, however, he has impressed right from the start. Earlier this year he placed 5^th at Western States and was in Europe and ready to run UTMB but unfortunately he picked up an injury while training.

02:30:54 MELTZER MOMENT

GOOD

BAD

UGLY

02:37:40 SMILESandMILES with Emelie Forsberg – smilesandmiles@yahoo.com

03:02:36 RACES

Argentina

The North Face® Endurance Challenge Argentina – 50 km | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

The North Face® Endurance Challenge Argentina – 80 km | 80 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Australia

New South Wales

Carcoar Cup Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

Great North Walk 100 km | 100 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Great North Walk 100 Miles | 100 miles | November 09, 2013 | website

Queensland

Run to Paradise Ultra Marathon | 74 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

France

Aveyron

Trail des Hospitaliers | 75 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

Marne

SPARNATRAIL classique | 55 kilometers | November 10, 2013 | website

Germany

Bavaria

Chiemsee-Ultramarathon November | 108 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Lower Saxony

KILL 50 | 50 miles | November 09, 2013 | website

North Rhine-Westphalia

Bottroper Herbstwaldlauf – 50 km | 50 kilometers | November 10, 2013 | website

Hong-Kong

Salomon LT 70 | 70 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

India

Bangalore Ultra Marathon – 100 km | 100 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Bangalore Ultra Marathon – 50 km | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Bangalore Ultra Marathon – 75 km | 75 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Italy

Tuscany

Eroica Running Ultramaratona | 65 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

Morocco

Trans 333 | 333 kilometers | November 15, 2013 | website

Namibia

100 km of Namib Desert | 100 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Desert Ultra | 250 kilometers | November 15, 2013 | website

Nepal

Everest Trail Race | 160 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

NEPAL Action Asia 3 day ultra 100km | 100 kilometers | November 01, 2013 | website

Nepal Action Asia Ultra 3 day marathon 60k | 60 kilometers | November 01, 2013 | website

New Zealand

Steelformers Around the Mountain | 100 miles | November 09, 2013 | website

Taranaki Steelformers 100 mile Around the mountain Solo | 100 miles | November 08, 2013 | website

Taranaki Steelformers 150 km Around the mountain Running and Walking Relay | 150 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

The Taniwha – 60 km | 60 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

United Kingdom

Northamptonshire

XNRG Druid Challenge 2013 | 84 miles | November 08, 2013 | website

Uruguay

ULTRA Maratón Altas Cumbres Serranas 100K Ultra | 100 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

ULTRA Maratón Altas Cumbres Serranas 60K Ultra | 60 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

USA

Alabama

Pinhoti 100 | 100 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

California

Almaden Hills 50K Run | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Chino Hills Spring Trail Series 50K | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

CTR Lake Chabot Train Run 50 km (Nov) | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Folsom Lake Trail Run – Fall 50K | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

San Lorenzo River Trail Run 50 km | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Two Cities Ultra Marathon | 50 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

Georgia

Georgia Sky to Summit 50k | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Idaho

NorthWest Nazarene University 100 Mile Run & Relay | 100 miles | November 08, 2013 | website

Illinois

Chicago Lakefront 50K | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Indiana

Owen Putnam State Forest 50K | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Owen Putnam State Forest 50 Miles | 50 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Maryland

Rosaryville Veteran’s Day 50k | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Massachusetts

Stone Cat 50 Mile | 50 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Missouri

Ozark Trail 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Nevada

Bootlegger 50K | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Coyote Springs 100K Trail Run | 100 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Coyote Springs 100M Trail Run | 100 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Coyote Springs 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Coyote Springs 50M Trail Run | 50 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Ragnar Relay Las Vegas | 195 miles | November 08, 2013 | website

New Jersey

NJ Trail Series One Day – 50K | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

New York

Mendon 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Oklahoma

Turkey & Taturs 50K Trail Race | 50 kilometers | November 03, 2013 | website

Tennessee

Nashville Ultra Marathon 50 K Race | 50 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Nashville Ultra Marathon 50 Mile Race | 50 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Nashville Ultra Marathon 60 K Race | 60 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Nashville Ultra Marathon 70 K Race | 70 kilometers | November 02, 2013 | website

Upchuck 50K Trail Running Race | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

Virginia

Mountain Masochist Trail Run | 50 miles | November 02, 2013 | website

Washington

First Call Veterans Day 50K | 50 kilometers | November 09, 2013 | website

03:05:23 CLOSE

03:09:40

LINKS:

http://traffic.libsyn.com/talkultra/Episode_47_-_Bowman_Abdelnoor_Hill_Forsberg.mp3

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

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

Website – talkultra.com

Why We Run – Salomon Running TV S3 E01

Posted on October 30, 2013 by talkultra

“Ideally I would like to be a bird but running is a close second”

The African Attacment and Salomon Running once again take our sport and the visual story to the next leveel

©SalomonTrailRunning

Bernd Heinrich is a retired Professor living in a log cabin in the woods of Western Maine. He has held numerous running records throughout his life and has committed much of his time to the study of the natural world. In Episode 01 we look back at this man’s incredible life, his achievements, the lessons he has learned, and what we can possibly learn from him.

Music:
“Breathe”
By SignPost
Written for The African Attachment & SRTV
http://www.signpostsound.co.za

Additional Race Footage:
Transvulcania & Zegama – Kikazaru Producciones
Marathon du Mont Blanc – Mouss Productions
Olympus Marathon – Stamos Birsim

La Course des Templiers – 2013

Posted on October 26, 2013 by talkultra

Nuria Picas Templiers 2012 ©iancorless.com

Millau, Southern France. The iconic ‘La Course des Templier’ has often been regarded as the Holy Grail of Trail in France. Salomon athlete and Brit, Andy Symonds won the race a couple of years ago and it made him a household name. Of course living in France and speaking the lingo did help.

The Great Race of the Knights Templar was founded in 1995 with a humanitarian purpose. To financially support an orphanage in Chad

Sighting the Leadville Trail 100 miler in the US as an influence, Odile and Gilles Bertrand decided to embark on this adventure in March 1995. The project was launched and a date was selected, the last Sunday of October.

But the format of 100 miles as at the Leadville race was considered too long and Odile and Bertrand decided to offer a more appealing distance of 65 km.

In October 1995 before the fortress of St. Eulalie de Cernon 500 runners assembled and the first edition was undertaken. La Course des Templiers gave birth to trail running in France. This first edition of Templiers was won by Patrick Fox and Corinne Favre.

Race start 2012 ©iancorless.com

THE GREAT RACE OF THE TEMPLARS

. Distance: 72 km – altitude: 3200 m +
. Departure: 5:15 (note time change), Millau, Millau Plage road (attention, 1h 20 ‘night in the morning) and arrive in Millau, Millau Beach Road 1.2 km from city center
. 4 stations (Peyreleau, St André de Vézines, Pierrefiche, The Cade)
. Registration limited to 2500 runners

A weekend of racing – Festival de l’Endurance

The Templiers race is part of the Festival de l’Endurance. The main event takes place on Sunday, the Grande Course – THE GREAT RACE OF THE TEMPLARS is steep and rocky, so steep that the race organisers place ropes in many areas so that runners can ease their way through rough spots without falling.

To add to that magical ambiance, it helps to know that Nant was one of many points in a network of secret trails built by the Knights Templar, the monastic, international military order formed at the end of the First Crusade with the mandate of protecting Christian pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem. The Knights Templar, known for their architectural skills and fighting alongside Richard I were the first warrior monks and were prevalent in that part of France until their downfall in 1307.

The race route uses the secret paths of the Templars which ncludes two long tunnels that had been used as shortcuts to beat enemies to strategic locations. The region has become a popular tourist attraction primarily due to the success of Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.

2013 RACE

Miguel Heras TNFUTMB

The 2012 edition of the race concluded the Skyrunner World Series but not this year! However, a quality field is assembled. Miguel Heras (Salomon) just missed out on the win last year so he will be looking for the top of the podium. However, he will have a re match with TNFUTMB winner, Xavier Thevenard (Asics). Thomas Lorblanchet, teammate of Xavier will also return, he has won this race several times before and without doubt be at the front of the race. Julien Rancon will be looking to repeat his victory but Michel Lanne may well be the favourite, he had some time way from the sport with a new baby and an injury but he is back.

Xavier winning TNFUTMB

The ladies race has the return of Nuria Picas (Buff) Nuria dominated the race last year ahead of Emelie Forsberg and Lizzy Hawker. Nuria has gone from strength to strength and after placing second at TNFUTMB and then shortly afterwards winning Cavalls delVent once again, she is for me, the outright favourite for the ladies race. Julia Bottger (Salomon) will also participate, however, I can’t help but feel it will be a little too short for her.

Nuria Picas winning Templiers 2012 ©iancorless.com

The main event takes place on Sunday.

You can see images from the 2012 race HERE

Limone Extreme SKY race video

Posted on October 20, 2013 by talkultra

Great video here showing the terrain, climbing ability and descending ability of some of the best Skyrunners in the world. In particular, make sure you take note about 12-min in, this is why Kilian Jornet is the best in the world; look at his speed!

Enjoy!

Link HERE

Kilian Jornet shares his journey at Diagonale des Fous

Posted on October 19, 2013 by talkultra

≠©kilianjornet read the full post on his website HERE

Hello ! Here for the third year in the Diagonale des Fous! And what a diagonal ! Strong emotions …

1 . The Asphalt is annoying … and dangerous!
Three weeks ago,in UROC , a 100km in the United States with 50km of asphalt and ” semi- roads ” I hurt my TFL ( tensor fascia latta ) the lack of habit of running on hard surfaces and flat ( I had run maximum 20km in asphalte this summer ) caused me inflammation which lasted during training until now. I told myself to try, that maybe the pain will “disappeared ” but (error) injuries do not just disappear .

2 . the race
Bravo François d’Haene! he makes a great race , too happy for him ! It gonna be his wine? 😉
We left on a easy start with long runnable 40km and from the beginning I felt the pain, which worsened from the 14 km . In uphills in small steps, I did not hurt. But when I wanted to make bigger steeps or in the descent it was impossible. I was a little disappointed because I felt in great shape and in good condition, but each race is a world we must learn to re- adapt . It is therefore Cilaos I decided not to compete but to make the race.

3 . Reunion is exceptional!
And going slowly I could really enjoy everything about the race, the beautiful scenery ( mafate , Maido , the sea .. ) of the buffee and aidstations ( without the stress of the struggle for the victory I could eat cari-poulet, rougail-saucisse and pâtés créole ) Enjoy also sharing with lots of spectators that day and night were everywhere (yes all around ) to encourage all the runners. Run with lots of people, François , Pascal Didier , Quentin , David, Emelie… And of course the wonderful massages that have kept me going , five in total. Thank you Antonella , Thibaut and Urko .

4 . to quit or not…..

Follow on Kilian’s website HERE

Episode 46 – Howe, Lightfoot, Bethell, Forsberg

Posted on October 18, 2013 by talkultra

Episode 46 of Talk Ultra and on this weeks show we have an interview with Speedgoat 50k winner and 2^nd place at UROC, Stephanie Howe. Brit fell running sensation, Ricky Lightfoot talks about his progression to ultra. Anthony Bethell provides an insight into his first year participating in the Skyrunning season from an everyday runners perspective. Marc Talks Training. Emelie Smiles and Miles. The news, a blog, up and coming races and Speedgoat is back

15 MINS of FAME – Anthony Bethell

NEWS

Limone Extreme VK and SKY

Men

1. Urban Zemmer 37’10” RECORD 2. Thorbjorn Ludvigsen 37’34″ 3. Marco Moletto 38’37″ 4. Kilian Jornet 39’04″ 5. Philip Gotsch 39’12”

Women

1. Laura Orgue’ 46’10″ 2. Antonella Confortola 47’19″ 3. Samatha Galassi 48’27″ 4. Tessa Hill 48’45″ 5. Leire Aguirrezabala 49’05”

2013 Skyrunner® Vertical Series ranking extract

Men

1. Urban Zemmer (ITA) La Sportiva – 288 points

2. Marco Fachinelli (ITA) La Sportiva – 236 points

3. Marco Moletto (ITA) La Sportiva – 224 points

Women

1. Laura Orgue Salomon (ESP) Salomon – 308 points

2. Vanesa Ortega (ESP) Boquique – 251 points

3. Tessa Hill (GBR) Arc’teryx – 242 ponts

SKY

Men

1. Kilian Jornet (ESP) Salomon – 2h17’03

2. Ionut Zinca (ROU) Valetudo Skyrunning Italia – 2h18’27”

3. Aritz Egea (EMF) – 2h18’53”

4. David Schneider (AUT) inov-8 – 2h20’40”

5. Zaid Ait Malek – 2h21’09”

Women

1. Stevie Kremer (Salomon Agisko) – 2h46’13”

2. Antonella Confortola (GS Forestale) – 2h53’58”

3. Emelie Forsberg (Salomon) – 2h54’54”

4. Tessa Hill (Arc’teryx) – 2h58’20”

5. Leire Aguirrezabala (EMF) – 2h58’54”

Sky World Series Final Ranking

Men

1. Kilian Jornet (ESP) – Salomon

2. Luis Hernando (ESP) adidas Trail Running

3. Alex Nichols (USA) inov-8

4. Jokin Lizeaga (ESP) – EMF

5. Aritz Egea (ESP) EMF

Women

1. Stevie Kremer (USA) – Salomon Agisko

2. Emelie Forsberg (SWE) – Salomon

3. Silvia Serafini (ITA) – Salomon Agisko

4. Nuria Dominguez (ESP) – Buff

5. Anna Lupton (GBR) – inov-8

BLOGS

Dakota Jones writes on iRunFar a very personal and insightful post on the pressures of running and what it means to drop!

Link: http://www.irunfar.com/2013/10/dropping.html

‘My sponsors, however, pay me to do one thing well: race. And this race, though less important on an international scale, is actually a huge deal for Montrail. The company does really well in Japan–they’re the best-selling trail shoe in the country–and they are the title sponsor of this race which has almost 3,000 people. So even though you have never heard of the Hasetsune Cup, Montrail has a lot riding on it. That’s why they were willing to fly me out to Japan two years in a row, by no means a small investment. They are willing to devote the resources to increase the chance of success. Last year I won, but today I dropped out. Fifty percent is an F.’

INTERVIEW – Ricky Lightfoot recently raced in South Africa and smashed the OTTER course record. In this interview we discuss his progression from British Fells to the world of ultra running.

TALK TRAINING – with Marc Laithwaite http://www.theendurancestore.com/blog/blog/2013/10/17/the-periodisation-of-nutrition-what-to-eat-and-when/

INTERVIEW

This week’s interview is with Stephanie Howe. Steph sure is a fast lady and has gained a reputation over faster and shorter distance races. Just recently she placed second behind Emelie Forsberg at UROC.

MELTZER MOMENT

GOOD – Trails are open!

BAD (ass) -Ueli Steck http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2013/10/15/swiss-climber-conquers-annapurna-solo/

UGLY – Karl’s face on TV

SMILESandMILES with Emelie Forsberg – smilesandmiles@yahoo.com

RACES for the next two weeks

Australia

New South Wales

Hume & Hovell 100 | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Hume & Hovell 50 | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Washpool/Gibraltar World Heritage Trails – 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

South Australia

Heysen 105 | 105 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Victoria

Ned Kelly Chase 100km – Wangaratta Fitness Fun Addicts | 100 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Western Australia

Oxfam Trailwalker Australia – Perth | 100 kilometers | October 18, 2013 | website

Chile

Rapa Nui GrandTrail – 80 K | 80 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Estonia

Haanja Jala100 – 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Finland

Western Finland

Wihan kilometrit – 100 km | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Wihan kilometrit – 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

France

Aveyron

Endurance Trail | 106 kilometers | October 25, 2013 | website

La course des templiers | 71 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Charente-Maritime

100 km de Royan | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

50 km de Royan | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Corse-du-Sud

Corsica Coast Race | 95 kilometers | October 30, 2013 | website

Ille-et-Vilaine

Entre Palis et Mégalithes | 64 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Nord

Trail Des Hauts-Pays – 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Savoie

Grande Course du Lac | 55 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Germany

North Rhine-Westphalia

Röntgenlauf Ultramarathon | 63 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Greece

Rodopi Advendurun 100 miles | 100 miles | October 18, 2013 | website

India

Bhatti Lakes 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 27, 2013 | website

Bhatti Lakes 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Italy

Piedmont

Lago d’Orta Ultra Trail – 55 km | 55 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Lago D’Orta Ultra Trail – 80 km | 80 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Trail del Lago d’Orta – 55 km | 55 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Japan

Inagawa 100km Ultra “TOASHI” Fun Run | 100 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Mexico

Carrera de Baja Mexican Trail | 100 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Namibia

Namib Desert Challenge | 220 kilometers | October 28, 2013 | website

Nepal

Everest Sky Race | 360 kilometers | October 18, 2013 | website

NEPAL Action Asia 3 day ultra 100km | 100 kilometers | November 01, 2013 | website

Nepal Action Asia Ultra 3 day marathon 60k | 60 kilometers | November 01, 2013 | website

New Zealand

Blackmores XTERRA Trail Challenge Waihi Ultra Marathon | 60 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Réunion

La Mascareignes | 61 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Trail de Bourbon | 77 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

South Africa

Bonitas Golden Gate Challenge | 70 kilometers | October 24, 2013 | website

Spain

Andalusia

Ultima Frontera – 166 km | 166 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Ultima Frontera – 55 km | 55 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Ultima Frontera – 83 km | 83 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Sweden

Markusloppet | 50 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

United Kingdom

England

Caesar’s Camp 100 | 100 miles and 50 miles | October 20, 2013 | website

Clarendon Way Ultra | 48 miles | October 23, 2013 | website

Coastal Trail Series – Suffolk – Ultra | 34 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

East Devon Way Ultra | 53 miles | October 21, 2013 | website

Ennerdale 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Original Mountain Marathon | 52 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Rowbotham’s Round Rotherham International Trail Event | 50 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Sussex Border Path Ultra | 49 miles | October 24, 2013 | website

Two Moors Way Ultra | 50 miles | October 20, 2013 | website

Vangard Way Ultra | 44 miles | October 25, 2013 | website

Wessex Ridgeway Ultra | 52 miles | October 22, 2013 | website

Wales

Pembrokeshire Coast Challenge | 78 miles | October 18, 2013 | website

USA

Arizona

Cave Creek Thriller 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Line 100 mile Ultra & Relay | 100 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Javelina Jundred 100 Mile Endurance Run | 100 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

California

100 Mile Endurance Challenge | 100 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Coyote Ridge 50 Km Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Dirty Dare Trail Run 50 km | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Lake Hodges 50K | 50 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Whiskeytown 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Connecticut

Bimbler’s Bluff 50k | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Delaware

Sinnemahone Ultra Marathon 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Florida

Mutual Mine 50K | 50 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

“Running for the Bay!” 50K | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Hawaii

Peacock Ultramarathons 100K | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Peacock Ultramarathons 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Illinois

Des Plaines River Trial 50 Miles | 50 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Forest Glen 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Kansas

Lake Perry Rocks! 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Prairie Spirit Trail “Fall Classic” 50K Ultra Race | 50 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Prairie Spirit Trail “Fall Classic” 50 Mile Ultra Race | 50 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Maryland

Fire on the Mountain 50K | 50 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Minnesota

Surf the Murph 50K | 50 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Missouri

C2C Ultramarathon and Team Relay | 39 miles | October 20, 2013 | website

Dogwood Canyon 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Spirit of the Osage 50K Endurance Run | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

Nevada

Pioneer Saloon Ghost Run 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Pioneer Saloon Ghost Run 50 Mile | 50 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

North Carolina

WC-50 Ultra Trail Marathon 50k | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

WC-50 Ultra Trail Marathon 50M | 50 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Ohio

Run With Scissors Double Marathon | 52 miles | October 27, 2013 | website

Stone Steps 50k Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

Oklahoma

Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd 100K | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd 100 Mile | 100 miles | October 19, 2013 | website

Pumpkin Holler Hunnerd 50K | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Pennsylvania

Quad State Quad Buster | 46 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Tussey mOUnTaiNBACK | 50 miles | October 20, 2013 | website

Tennessee

Ragnar Relay Tennessee | 196 miles | October 25, 2013 | website

Texas

Cactus Rose 100 Mi Trail Run | 100 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Cactus Rose 50 Mi Trail Run | 50 miles | October 26, 2013 | website

Utah

Antelope Island 100K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Antelope Island 50K Trail Run | 100 kilometers | October 19, 2013 | website

Goblin Valley Ultra 50K | 50 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

Pony Express Trail 100 | 100 miles | October 18, 2013 | website

Pony Express Trail 50 | 50 miles | October 18, 2013 | website

Washington

Ft. Steilacoom 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | October 20, 2013 | website

SCOTT Cougar Mountain Series 50k | 50 kilometers | October 27, 2013 | website

West Virginia

Run Around the Gorge | 69 kilometers | October 26, 2013 | website

CLOSE

LINKS

http://traffic.libsyn.com/talkultra/Episode_46_-_Howe_Lighfoot_Bethell_Forsberg.mp3
ITunes http://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/talk-ultra/id497318073
Libsyn – feed://talkultra.libsyn.com/rss
Website – talkultra.com

Salomon Running TV Season 3

Posted on October 16, 2013 by talkultra

An all new season of Salomon Running TV! On October 30th, 2013 season 3 of Salomon Running TV begins and it promises to offer a completely new look on the sport we love so much. With a variety of characters and stories that span the globe — join us on our journeys and adventures!

http://www.salomonrunning.com
http://www.facebook.com/salomonrunning/
http://www.twitter.com/salomon_running/
http://www.instagram.com/salomonrunning/