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Max Mcdonald Running - Image Supplied
By Sian Bantock
Tully resident Max McDonald took on one of the world’s most prestigious trail running events over the weekend, a competition in the renowned Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) hosted in Europe over the weekend.
The UTMB features several race distances including the iconic 174km UTMB, the challenging CCC estimated at just over 100KM, and the OCC - the shortest of the three at 50KM.
Max was accepted into the CCC race, a challenging course with rugged mountain terrain, relentless climbs that offer breathtaking vistas. Covering more than 100 kilometers with approximately 6,200 metre elevation gain, the route passes through Mont Blanc Massive of Italy, Switzerland and France.
Max started his race in Courmayeur, Italy after the initial 3KM the weather changed from sunny and dry to wild, wet and windy.
He battled through the weather and travelled into Champex-Lac, Switzerland but was hit with unexpected news.
“An extra 7KM and 500 metre elevation gain was added due to the mudslides in the mountains,” Max said.
“Finishing was the aim after 80KM in, knowing how difficult it was going to be now at the end. I stopped more than I should have but crossing the finish line was more important than quitting.”
At just 27, Max demonstrated exceptional perseverance, resilience and mental fortitude, crossing the prestigious trail running event in Chamonix, France in an impressive 17 hours 39 minutes and 02 seconds.
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