Two top ultra runners have called for a UTMB boycott and there is a Canadian connection.
So, Canadian endurance runners might be familiar with the whole Ultra Trail Whistler brouhaha that left the ultra running community in the area fuming. Well, turns out this might not have been an isolated issue with UTMB. In fact, two of the best-known ultra runners on the planet are calling for a boycott of the organisers of some of the top ultramarathon races in the world.
UTMB is probably the best-known ultramarathon race in the world, but the company behind the famed French race also organises a massive and expanding international race series to the tune of some 41 events taking place across Asia, Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Americas.
A leaked email, shared by coach Martin Cox, highlights worries about UTMB’s recent direction, especially its partnership with UTMB Group and Ironman. Jornet and Miller emphasize responsible business practices, advocating for positive growth in the sport.
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They propose a collective boycott by the top 15 male and female runners, aiming to pressure UTMB for positive changes. The controversy extends to reactions within the ultra-running community, raising questions about the impact on athletes’ choices.
The athletes are proposing an alternative race in 2024, seeking unity among elite runners to apply pressure on UTMB organizers for positive changes. The email emphasizes a desire for better management, consideration, and improvement for the sport of trail running. Athletes are encouraged to share their thoughts and explore alternatives, aiming for a constructive dialogue and potential positive change within the ultra-running community.
The situation is underscored by the recent announcement of UTMB’s Canadian edition, Ultra Trail Whistler, facing criticism from the local ultra trail community and beyond.
Criticism arises from the concurrent cancellation of the Whistler Alpine Meadows ultra marathon (WAM), an independently run event at the same venue. Safety concerns and issues with Whistler Blackcomb, the hosting ski resort, apparently led to WAM’s cancellation, but there seems to be much more to it than what UTMB and Whister Blackcomb have to say. For more on that, check out this post by Gary Robbins, Canadian ultra legend and a fantastic local event organizer.
Jornet and Miller’s call sheds light on broader concerns within the ultra-running community, sparking ongoing discussions about the future of major races like UTMB and the delicate balance between the sport’s growth and its core values.
UTMB, for its part, responded to the Instagram post above in the comments, stating:
“While we would have welcomed a direct conversation on this topic with Zach and Kilian before learning of this email, we have reached out to both of them to understand their position and discuss it directly. We value the opinions of the whole community and are always open to discussion and collaboration.”
This is not over. Stay tuned.
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