-Introduce yourself in a few lines: Name, surname, age, profession, hobbies, passion(s), family life, etc.
Léa Duhet, 24 years old, is training to become a mountain guide. After studying marketing and communication, and gaining several professional experiences, particularly in sports events, I've become increasingly passionate about outdoor sports. Having lived in the mountains since childhood, I want to develop sports tourism with my father's guesthouse and restaurant located in the Gordolasque Valley. Alongside this, I've created a personal blog and an Instagram community under the name "lea.nicoise" where I share my mountain outings and offer advice on the hiking trails I take. I'm a bit of an adventurer; I love traveling and discovering new destinations, but I remain very attached to my home region!
-Why running and what does it bring you on a daily basis? (At what age did you start, why this sport, what are its benefits, how do you feel afterwards, etc.)
I've tried many different sports, I've always been sporty, but I really started running regularly 3 years ago and I quickly became addicted!
Before, I simply ran occasionally on the road and took group classes at the gym, did crossfit, and also did competitive boxing at university.
Let's just say I've always loved competition, sports with a challenge!
I like to push myself, it feels so good to succeed in overcoming challenges.
Thanks to sports I have experienced unforgettable moments, exceptional encounters, and powerful experiences that make me feel alive!
-Can you tell us about your physical and mental preparation before the Utecam trail race?
Before a race I try not to panic, and to trust myself, I know that I have prepared as best I could and that I will give my all.
Of course I always have an apprehension for fear of not feeling well, of getting hurt, but it's a pleasant adrenaline rush.
When I can, I do a yoga and relaxation session in the last week, where I try to "make some juice" and conserve energy to have it in my legs on race day.
The bulk of the preparation was this winter with specific training but also cross-training with other sports such as ski touring and cycling.
-How did your race go? (feelings, unexpected events...)
I knew I had to start fast, the path quickly narrowed and afterwards it's very difficult to overtake, so I had to position myself well.
In the end, I quickly realized that I was the second girl. Not knowing where the first and third were, the most important thing was to listen to each other; I still wanted to conserve energy. I knew there was only one climb, but a long one (more than 1000m of elevation gain in one go).
I feel quite at home in the Vésubie valley, so I really enjoyed myself and felt great. When I reached the summit of Pépoiri, I knew the first runner was far ahead (8 minutes), but I quickly caught up with her on the descent.
I love picking up speed, feeling like I'm flying, so I really went for it, and when the marshals on the course told me I was getting closer, I felt like I could fly! I overtook him 4km into the final descent. I felt great, just a little dehydrated, but that didn't stop me from taking first place! An exceptional race, meeting other trail runners, volunteers… in short, unforgettable!
-Do you have any advice for those who practice trail running or who would like to get started?
Don't be afraid, listen to your body and take it slowly so you don't get discouraged. Start by walking uphill and gradually try to climb faster. It all depends on whether you're already a road runner or a hiker; you'll feel more or less apprehensive on the descent, but don't rush things when you see better runners than you—it's not pleasant, but we've all been there! The trail running spirit is truly exceptional; I recommend you try it—you'll quickly become addicted :)
-What are your future plans in the race?
I'd like to try longer formats next year; it appeals to me, even though it's a little scary. You learn to know yourself better, to manage yourself. And it's a slower pace too.
I would still do some short formats because I like speed and competition too! Ultra trail running is different, it's more about introspection.
