|
The compulsory equipment required to run the UTMB®, the CCC® or the TDS has evolved. Over the years, we have tried to organise our races using rules stemming from the world of running. The lesson learnt from the apocalyptic conditions of 2010, is that the mountain decides, always. Meaning that the runners, and thus trailers, have to think firstly "Mountain" before thinking "Trail", to advance not only effectively, but essentially safely. In other words, if we want to run an ultra in the mountains, it is necessary to accept different rules from those of other races, and that includes of course the great majority of trails. It seems evident that to run in the desert, one needs special equipment; in the mountains that is also true.
 |
How can we communicate better with you?
By taking a few minutes to answer this questionnaire we can get to know you better. Thank you in advance for your assistance. |
|
Thought proceeds action
Think before acting. Think before running. To put chance on your side, it is necessary to avoid gross errors. Sébastien Chaigneau, Vincent Delebarre, Kilian Jornet and Jean-Yves Rey, advise you on the essentials. These trailers have specialized knowledge of the mountains and explain the importance of equipment or particular conditions for races such as the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc®.
Always stay dry due to...
A waterproof and breathable jacket
« A waterproof jacket is obligatory. During the first UTMB®, in 2003, it rained almost ceaselessly and the rare finishers (10 %) doubtless had a very protective garment. All brands propose this type of product, but beware of those which are too light. Its breathability is the key. Try to run in an oilskin! The technical membranes allow the evacuation of sweat while at the same time preventing water from entering. The use of the hood, complete with a cap allows one a free field of vision with immediate heat and comfort. » Vincent Delebarre
« In the case of cold and rain, the wet body cools very fast when we go up a pass and the water can freeze you. I consider that staying dry, as much as possible, is very important. » Kilian Jornet
Never be cold due to having...
Warm clothing
« If it rains, or even snows, and we are moving, the jacket would be enough with almost nothing underneath. But as soon as we are obliged to stop, and that inevitably happens, or as soon as the temperatures are negative and we have seen that almost every year, the decrease in energy levels begins, and negative influences pay their toll. The logical result: the change in our physical integrity. » Vincent Delebarre
Think about the vital details: over-trousers, gloves…
Waterproof over-trousers
« They are, for me indispensable. Long leggings are useless when they are wet. » Kilian Jornet
Waterproof and warm gloves
« Gloves are very important. Cold fingers hamper your ability to eat or drink. Personally I suffer from Rayaud's syndrome, which means a loss of feeling in the hands and I have found myself unable to unwrap a cereal bar or hold a gourd! » Sébastien Chaigneau
Equipment in general
« I think that this type of equipment (jacket, gloves, over-trousers…) shouldn't be part of the obligatory equipment but should be found permanently at the bottom of the pack because it is essential. We should not even have to impose it. It is when we find ourselves confronted with problems or bad conditions that we question it but then, it is too late… » Sébastien Chaigneau
Respect the mountain
The importance of specific preparation for the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® (night, mountains, semi-autonomy and duration)
Night
« The passage during the night leads to stress and a decline of attentiveness. The body is faced more with difficulties due to the difficult weather conditions... Personally I like the night but I think that it is because I have never hesitated to put on more clothes, the comfort and the serenity it gives means more efficiency. » Vincent Delebarre
Mountain
« I am afraid of the mountains in spite of my long experience in this environment. Crossing the passes must not be underestimated and even more so if it is at night and windy, where the importance of clothes adapted to these conditions is essential. » Jean-Yves Rey
Semi-autonomy
« Knowing how to manage one self is a crucial point towards the success of one's race, maybe the most important. Everything must be tested and corrected before D-day, without which damage is virtually certain... » Jean-Yves Rey
Duration
« One hour, passes, five hours, it is already harder, ten hours and more, I am not even talking about whether one's equipment is adequate. » Vincent Delebarre
|
