In the world of trail running, the UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) is often considered the pinnacle of competitive achievement. This year, at the OCC (Orsières-Champex-Chamonix), the shorter yet fiercely challenging race of the UTMB series, Eli Hemming emerged victorious, adding a remarkable chapter to his trail running journey.
A Rising Star on the Trails
Eli Hemming, a former professional triathlete turned trail runner, has been making waves in the trail running community with his consistent performances and relentless determination. His transition from the triathlon circuit to trail running wasn't just a change of scenery; it was a strategic move that has seen him climb the ranks swiftly. This year, his efforts culminated in a win at the OCC, a race known for its grueling 56 km course with 3,500 meters of elevation gain.
The UTMB OCC: A Race to Remember
The OCC is known for its technical terrain, demanding ascents, and the breathtaking scenery of the Mont Blanc massif. It attracts some of the best trail runners from around the world, each hoping to test their limits on this prestigious stage. For Eli, this race was an opportunity to showcase not just his physical prowess but also his strategic acumen.
In the podcast with LEVER Movement earlier this year, Eli delved into his preparation and mindset leading up to the season. He emphasized the importance of balancing training intensity with recovery and focusing on the mental aspects of racing. Eli shared that his approach to the OCC was to stay calm and composed in the early stages, conserving energy for the latter half of the race, where the real challenge lay. This strategy paid off handsomely as he surged ahead in the final sections, overtaking his competitors and securing the win.
The LEVER Movement Podcast: Insights into Eli’s Mindset
In his interview with Brad, Eli provided a rare glimpse into the mindset of a champion. He discussed the mental fortitude required to endure long, grueling races and the importance of staying adaptable. Eli highlighted how his background in triathlon has given him a unique perspective on endurance sports, helping him approach races with a balance of speed and endurance.
One of the key takeaways from the podcast was Eli's focus on consistency and adaptability. He explained that while physical training is crucial, the ability to adapt to the unpredictable nature of trail running is what often separates the winners from the rest. This adaptability was on full display during the OCC, where varying weather conditions and the challenging terrain demanded quick thinking and resilience.
As this season progressed, it was rewarding for us to follow Eli’s unique training and racing successes. From training full time at an altitude above 8k feet, doing double threshold workouts with the LEVER system, and working as a cowboy on the family ranch, Eli’s approach to this season was a little unconventional, but it was exactly what he needed to continue establishing himself as one of the best Ultra runners in the sport.
A New Chapter in Trail Running
Eli Hemming’s win at the UTMB OCC is more than just a personal victory; it's a testament to his hard work, strategic approach, and love for the sport. It also highlights the exciting evolution of his career, from triathlon to trail running, and the potential for even greater achievements in the future.
For trail running enthusiasts and aspiring athletes, Eli’s story is a source of inspiration. His journey reminds us that with dedication, smart training, and a passion for the sport, it's possible to achieve greatness, even when transitioning to a new discipline.
As we celebrate Eli’s remarkable achievement at the UTMB OCC, we look forward to seeing what he will accomplish next. One thing is for certain: Eli Hemming is a name cemented into the world of trail running. His victory is not just a win for him but a significant milestone in the sport, showcasing the growing talent pool and the exciting future of trail running.
To gain more insights into Eli's preparation, mindset, and the race itself, be sure to listen to the full podcast with LEVER Movement, where Eli shares more about his journey, the challenges he faced, and the strategies that led him to victory at the UTMB OCC. And also check out his recent Youtube video where he and Tabor put the final touches into their UTMB training.
