UTMB Nice Training: felt good

From this weekend onwards, the long sessions really start to live up to their name: the intensity is ramping up.

On the programme:
– Day 1: 1 hr 45 mins and 440 D+
– Day 2: 4 hr 50 mins and 1,200 D+

Ouen Toro
As usual, I did this session on Ouen Toro to string together several sets of ascents and descents – a bit of a leg-burner.

After a very rainy morning, I set off. The start was a bit tricky, but after a 10-minute warm-up, I tackled a very steep section. I wanted to work on climbs with a high gradient, even though they aren’t very long here.

Everything went well on this ride. The pace was good; I didn’t have to struggle to keep going. An effective session, I think.

Mont Dore
Yes, Mont Dore again! This route is ideal for long climbs and descents, offering the option of:
– a 6 km rolling climb/descent (access via the Passage de Plum);
– a technical 3–4 km section, but with the same elevation gain throughout – around 650 D+, on the sea side.

I take the first rolling section at a leisurely pace; I know this route well. Time flies by quite quickly, and in 1 hour 10 minutes I reach the summit. Just like yesterday, no particular difficulties. I take the time to take in the 360° view before heading back down towards the sea-side trail, which is more technical and slippery.

I curse this red earth, as slippery as packed snow… but well, I’ll just have to get used to it: more than three-quarters of New Caledonia is covered in it! 😊

What a view! A great source of motivation.

A little further down, the shaded section has a tropical feel to it, with a lovely flight of steps. But I’m keeping my options open: in a few minutes, I’ll have to climb them again.

Once I reach the car park, I have a portion of fruit purée, exchange a few words with some walkers, then set off again along the path in the opposite direction.

This technical and very steep section really takes it out of me. I dig deep to maintain a good pace. My body keeps up… and I’m savouring the moment!

Just a little more effort – the summit isn’t far away now.

Once at the summit, I take a little longer to eat. Then I head back down to the starting point. Unlike last time, my knees aren’t hurting. I descend smoothly, not trying to go fast, but at a pace that’s appropriate for my level.

I arrive a little ahead of schedule: I turn round for a short detour to reach 4 hours 50 minutes, and that’s it.

Unlike previous training sessions, I don’t feel exhausted, and I’m not in any pain. I’m just relaxed.

This weekend has been a great long run… and I’m more than satisfied! 😊