The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is a mountain ultramarathon race that was first held in 2003. It follows the route of the Tour du Mont Blanc, a popular hiking trail that spans France, Italy, and Switzerland. The UTMB is considered one of the most competitive and prestigious trail running races in the world. Here are some key details about the race:
- Distance: The UTMB covers approximately 171 kilometers (106 miles).
- Elevation: Runners face a total elevation gain of about 10,000 meters (32,800 feet) during the race.
- Location: The race takes place in the Mont Blanc massif, which includes the highest mountain in Western Europe.
- Race Points: To qualify for the UTMB, runners must accumulate enough race points through qualifying trail races over the previous two-year period.
- Entry and Qualification Requirements: The UTMB has strict entry and qualification requirements. In 2016 and 2017, 42% and 35% of runners did not finish the race, respectively. Despite the stricter criteria, 10% of qualifying entrants were still denied a place, prompting organizers to raise entry standards for the 2010 event.
- Race Week: The UTMB is part of a week-long festival based around Chamonix in France, which includes several races and various concerts and festivals.
- Ultra-Trail World Tour: The UTMB is a race of the Ultra-Trail World Tour, a series of international ultramarathons.
- 2020 Edition: The 2020 edition of the race was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, with all registrants automatically receiving a 55% refund and given the option of reserving a spot for a future edition.
