UTMB 2024: Rosanna Buchauer Secures Third Place in CCC Race
The annual UTMB event in Chamonix kicked off with the iconic anthem „Conquest of Paradise,“ signaling the start of the 21st edition. 2,300 runners embarked on the challenging 176 km course with 10,000 meters of elevation gain from the Place du Triangle de l’Amitié, symbolizing unity between France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Shortly after, spectators in Chamonix cheered on the winners of the CCC®, the final race of the UTMB® World Series in the 100 km category, following a thrilling competition. This year, the key to success lay in managing one’s effort under the scorching conditions.
The women’s race saw an international podium emerge after 101 km and 6,050 meters of climbing. Toni McCann from South Africa (UTMB Index 801), who faced challenges between Champex and Trento, claimed victory in 11h57’59“, followed by Martyna Mlynarczyk from Poland (UTMB Index 743) in 12h11’12“, and Rosanna Buchauer from Germany (UTMB Index 768) in 12h16’55“. After crossing the finish line, Toni McCann expressed gratitude towards her family for their unwavering support, stating, „During my tough phase in Champex, I always thought of my family, and that gave me the strength to push through.“
Having won the OCC in 2023 and the CCC in 2024, the question naturally arose whether Toni McCann would tackle the UTMB next year. She responded, „No… but why not?“
Intense Competition Among Men
The men’s race was fiercely contested among a group of elite athletes vying for the lead. As the kilometers passed, a duo emerged from the background – Hayden Hawks from the USA (UTMB Index 915) and Adam Peterman from the USA (UTMB Index 927) – gradually widening the gap to the chasers. After a neck-and-neck battle that remained undecided until the last kilometer, American Hayden Hawks clinched victory without poles in 10h20’11“, 4 minutes and 20 seconds faster than his previous win in 2017. He was followed 6 minutes later by Slovakian Peter Frano (SVK – UTMB Index 879), who made a remarkable comeback from 7th place, overtaking American Adam Peterman to complete the podium in 10h28’50“. Reflecting on his win, Hayden Hawks shared, „I am very happy to share this podium with Peter as we have had some great battles in recent years. It was also great to share it with Adam, especially because we were both injured last year and supported each other through this challenge to overcome those tough moments.“
UTMB 2024: A Glimpse into the Future
As the UTMB 2024 event concluded with remarkable performances from both male and female athletes, the focus shifted towards the future. With athletes like Toni McCann and Hayden Hawks showcasing their exceptional talent and determination, the prospect of what lies ahead in the next edition of the UTMB is filled with excitement and anticipation.
Overall, the UTMB 2024 event was a testament to the resilience, strength, and spirit of the participants who conquered the challenging course in the heart of the Alps. As the sun set on another edition of this iconic race, the memories of triumph, camaraderie, and sheer determination will continue to inspire athletes and spectators alike for years to come.