UTMB®: A dream that builds step by step

The UTMB® is the ultimate dream when you watch it on TV or follow it online. You see the runners tackling the high ridges around Mont-Blanc, the electric atmosphere in Chamonix, and you always tell yourself: “One day, I want to experience that too.”

Of course, when starting out in trail running, you often doubt whether you'll ever be capable of it. The distances seem huge, the elevation gain intimidating. But step by step, you increase the mileage and build consistency:

• Starting with 10 km, then 20 km;
• Gradually lengthening your runs to 40 km, then 60 km;
• Learning how to dial in nutrition, pacing, and mountain gear.

Some people try to rush into ultra distances all at once, but that carries a high risk of injury. While small setbacks can happen, listening to your body makes progression steady and deeply rewarding.

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The Turning Point: Qualifying Race and the Lottery Draw

To earn the right to apply for Chamonix, you have to collect the coveted Running Stones.

Enter an official World Series event, like Val d'Aran by UTMB® in the stunning Pyrenees. Once you cross that finish line, the stones are in your pocket.

Then comes the anticipation of the official lottery. And when that email finally lands in your inbox: You got selected!

It is a moment of pure relief and excitement. You realize that you now have 6 months to a year of focused preparation ahead to ensure everything comes together on race day.

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Months of Training: Weather Challenges and Epic Mountains

Throughout this training journey, you experience the whole spectrum of ultra running:

• Training in torrential rain, scorching summer heat, and freezing winter mornings;
• Waking up before dawn and grinding uphill intervals by the beam of your headlamp;
• But above all, experiencing magnificent mountain runs, breathtaking summits, unforgettable sunrises, and great camaraderie with training partners.

Every run generates stunning photos, rich GPS traces, and stories to cherish.

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Experiencing the UTMB®: The Pinnacle of the Adventure

And when race week finally arrives, it is an unforgettable experience: the iconic start to the notes of Vangelis, the roar of the crowds in Chamonix, running under the stars, and sharing these powerful moments with family and friends.

A profound human adventure that stays with you forever.

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Crown the Adventure: Create Your Custom AdvenBook

An epic journey like this doesn’t end at the finish line, and shouldn't be lost in a digital feed. The entire journey leading up to the race is what truly holds lasting value.

With AdvenBook, you can turn your complete path towards the UTMB® into a premium printed book:

1. Connect your Strava account in one click.
2. Select your key activities: pivotal training runs, qualifying race (Val d'Aran), and the main event.
3. Add your favorite photos and notes, and let our automated layout highlight your GPS routes and elevation profiles in gallery quality.
4. Receive your hardcover book at home, ready to be shared with loved ones and treasured for a lifetime.

Create my UTMB keepsake book on AdvenBook