I tried this route for the first time on the 23rd of July, running with a friend and a full team of support + pacers. I had to drop out after 100km near Pointe de Talamarche.
So I decided to have another approach for this attempt and started solo at 9:46am Sunday the 13th of September from Samoëns.
Struggled hard with finding water along the course especially at this time of the year. Particularly hard between Refuge de Sales and La Colonnaz, Morette et Chalet d'Aulp. Only had 2*500ml flasks, I would recommend having at least 500ml more. I even had to adapt my pace to save water because I was highly dehydrated. Had to take strange water in Morette but at one point you just need to drink ! I would suggest carrying a purifying straw.
Beware of the shepherd dogs (Les Patous), especially in crossing Les Aravis.
Regarding food and beverage here is a quick list :
- A cute and generous couple of trail runners gave me a liter of water in Flaine, I was about to faint.
- Had a fantastic cheese omelette at Col des Annes
- Veggie Burger and fries at the paraglider club in Doussard, a classic.
- Reblochon pasta in Chambéry to finish in Style !
After 170km I was in a lot of pain because of my shoes, luckily my friend Matt who came to film had his running shoes with him (who knew Vega is doing sports shoes ??). Too small was better than nothing :)
Finally arrived in Epernay Tuesday at 07:03pm, bells were ringing. As promised I've jumped in the fountain and had my first beer in 4 years to celebrate.
What an amazing journey. Being solo was fantastic. I know I could have ran faster but the most important is autre part.