Collaborations

For many, entering into the sport of trail racing is a daunting idea. For those who live in cities, or places with limited trail access, it can be a challenge to feel empowered to race on trails.

There is an African proverb well-used in the running world: to go fast, you should go alone. But to go far, you should go together. But what if you want to go far and fast?

A runner collapses at the finish line, caught in a moment of raw, unfiltered feeling as the weight of their accomplishment finally hits. Another, the bitter tears of disappointment written across their face – of failure, but …

Inspiration is a key ingredient when encouraging people to get outside and into the mountains. Arc’teryx has dedicated itself to that part of the recipe since its launch in 1989.

There is a particular breed of athlete that thrives in alpine environments. This person is gritty and resilient: courageous in many aspects, especially when facing daunting terrain.

This is a story – like so many running stories – that is about challenge of distances. One of the distances in this story is 7,000 miles, or thereabouts. Another is 3,200 miles. Then there is the classic 26.2 miles.

It’s almost impossible to arrive in the Chamonix Valley, in the heart of the French Alps, and not look up. The mountains dominate, especially the Massif du Mont-Blanc to the south, carving a jagged outline against the sky.