3 powerful lessons all runners can take away from UTMB
Let those tears out–it's encouraged
Photo by:
UTMB
The 20th edition of the Ultra-trail du Mont Blanc just wrapped up, and fans are still reeling from the epic achievements and courage of the runners in Chamonix. Whether they finished or not, lining up for a 170-kilometre trek with 10,000 metres of elevation gain, often over two entire days and nights, is a very brave endeavour in itself (and, without a doubt, a massive privilege).
Regardless of whether you ever plan on tackling an ultra, there are a few beautiful lessons we can all learn from UTMB. We may never be able to join the crowds in Chamonix, but we can learn from the magic that happens there and carry it over into our own running careers (even if the 5,000 metres is more your jam). Here are a few things UTMB shows us every year.
Sometimes you need to try a few times to get it right
While American ultrarunning great Jim Walmsley has made some massive accomplishments look easy, he took a few years to get UTMB right. Not only did the runner have to return to UTMB five times seeking a win to conquer that podium, but he also had (and was lucky enough to be able to) to uproot his life in the U.S. and move to France to fully learn and embrace the European running lifestyle. Walmsley did that for one year, missed the podium altogether in 2022, and decided to stay in France to try again.
Most of us aren’t aiming for a podium finish anywhere, let alone at UTMB. Whether it’s a PB in your distance of choice or qualifying for a goal race (or even conquering that learn-to-run program) if you’re a runner, you probably have a goal or two. It’s not only more than OK if you experience setbacks and disappointments and have to start over–it’s normal.
Finish-line tears are always justified
Whether you are first or last (and no matter your distance) the men and women of UTMB demonstrated the emotional aspect of running, over and over. From moments connecting with loved ones in aid stations to the finish-line feels from the first finisher (here’s looking at you, Jim and Courtney) to the last, races are exciting. No matter if you’ve smashed your goals or left unfinished business out on the course, running has probably pulled at your heartstrings and left you feeling a bit raw and vulnerable.
If you watched any of this year’s UTMB you will have noticed that no one held back–tears of joy and suffering alike flowed freely from both athletes and fans. Let it out. Emotion and running are both beautiful, very human things to be savoured and enjoyed. Shout with enthusiasm over your own finish, give out high-fives with reckless abandon, and accept those big, comforting hugs when you’re in need.
It takes a village (accepting help is important)
Many people running around Mont Blanc have a whole group of supporters with them at the race, or sending messages of love and support from afar. They may have trained with running clubs, coaches or friends to log the miles necessary for an up-to-48-hour race. And not all of us are lucky enough to have family and friends who can afford to come with us to races, or maybe it’s just not their jam–and that’s where the volunteers (and random fans!) come in.
If you have ever participated in a race of any type you’ve probably noticed (and appreciated) the volunteers at water stations and all over the race course. At ultras, these helpers play a particularly integral role. They are often as likely to help you tie your shoelaces, listen to your fatigue-laden rant or encourage you to get back on course as they are to refill a water bottle.
It’s OK to want and need help, even if your event of choice is much shorter than an ultra. That help can come in a multitude of forms, from the guidance of a coach to the cheers of a stranger. Soak it in, and don’t be afraid to ask for more. Chances are, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how eagerly others step forward to give you what you need, and you’ll most definitely have the opportunity to pay it forward.
Check out the latest buyer's guide:
