Highlights and Notable Moments
The 2024 edition of the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) once again proved why it remains the crown jewel of ultra-endurance racing. Athletes from across the globe converged in the picturesque town of Chamonix, France, to face the grueling 109-mile course that winds through France, Italy, and Switzerland, demanding over 30,000 feet of elevation gain. This year’s race was marked by extraordinary performances, unexpected victories, and historic milestones that will resonate in the ultra-running community for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Katie Schide shatters the women’s course record, claiming her second consecutive UTMB title with a remarkable performance.
- Vincent Bouillard, a relatively unknown French runner, surprises the field with an exhilarating victory in the men’s race.
- In a rare feat, Katie Schide joins an elite group as only the third woman to win both Western States 100 and UTMB in a single year, cementing her status among ultra-running legends.
- Defending champion Jim Walmsley faced unforeseen adversity, withdrawing from the race after a knee injury, underscoring the unpredictable nature of ultra-trail racing.
- Overall, UTMB 2024 reaffirms its reputation as one of the world’s most demanding and prestigious ultra-trail events, inspiring athletes and fans alike.
Men’s Race Recap
The men’s competition at UTMB 2024 delivered edge-of-the-seat excitement. French runner Vincent Bouillard emerged unexpectedly as the champion, taking control after the 48-mile mark and maintaining his lead through the final stretch. He crossed the finish line in Chamonix with an impressive time of 19:54:23, defying predictions and establishing himself among the ultra-trail elite. His victory was a testament to resilience and strategic pacing, as he navigated the challenging terrain with determination.
Frenchman Baptiste Chassagne finished strong in second place with a time of 20:22:45, while Ecuadorian Joaquín López secured third position with a time of 20:26:22. Last year’s champion, Jim Walmsley from the United States, faced a setback due to a knee injury shortly after the 50-mile point, leading to his withdrawal. His absence was a reminder of the race’s brutal demands and the fine line between victory and adversity.
Top 10 Men’s Finishers
- Vincent Bouillard (France) – 19:54:23
- Baptiste Chassagne (France) – 20:22:45
- Joaquín López (Ecuador) – 20:26:22
- Hannes Namberger (Germany) – 20:31:54
- Ludovic Pommeret (France) – 20:57:48
- Arthur Joyeux-Bouillon (France) – 21:12:12
- Cody Lind (U.S.) – 21:33:16
- Manuel Anguita (Spain) – 21:41:01
- Gautier Bonnecarrère (France) – 21:45:16
- Yannick Noël (France) – 21:45:16
Women’s Race Highlights
The women’s race was dominated by Katie Schide, whose commanding performance led her to a second consecutive UTMB victory. Finishing in an astonishing 22:09:31, Schide not only defended her title but also broke the course record previously held by Courtney Dauwalter in 2021 by a significant 21-minute margin. Her undefeated season included major wins at the Canyons 100K in April and the Western States 100 in June, showcasing her versatility and endurance.
New Zealand’s Ruth Croft delivered a stellar effort, finishing second with a time of 22:48:37. She managed to overtake Canada’s Marianne Hogan just after the 100-mile mark, with Hogan finishing third in 23:11:15. Schide’s historic victory places her alongside legendary figures in ultra-running, as only the third woman to win both Western States and UTMB within the same year, joining Courtney Dauwalter and Nikki Kimball in this elite group.
Top 10 Women’s Results
- Katie Schide (U.S., residing in France) – 22:09:31
- Ruth Croft (New Zealand) – 22:48:37
- Marianne Hogan (Canada, based in France) – 23:11:15
- Lin Chen (China) – 24:16:33
- Blandine L’Hirondel (France) – 24:35:54
- Emily Hawgood (Zimbabwe, living in U.S.) – 24:58:19
- Sabrina Stanley (U.S.) – 25:32:10
- Claudia Tremps (Spain) – 25:39:37
- Martina Valmassoi (Italy) – 25:42:02
- Lucy Bartholomew (Australia) – 25:55:31
Final Thoughts
The 2024 UTMB was a year filled with surprises, inspiring triumphs, and profound displays of endurance. Katie Schide’s record-breaking win and Vincent Bouillard’s astonishing upset victory exemplified the race’s unpredictable and awe-inspiring nature. As athletes battled the rugged terrain of the Mont-Blanc massif, they pushed beyond their perceived limits, demonstrating resilience and grit. This edition reaffirmed UTMB’s position as one of the most challenging and revered events in the world of ultra-trail running. With remarkable stories and historic achievements, the 2024 race has set a new standard for future editions. As the dust settles in Chamonix, the global ultra-running community eagerly looks forward to what the next chapter will bring, energized by the spirit of adventure and perseverance that defines UTMB.
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