Former UTMB champion Pau Capell has lined up a very different challenge this summer.
The ultrarunning star, the winner in Chamonix in trail running’s blue riband event in 2019, is taking on the Everesting 48-hour Challenge in Andorra.
It will take place between 29 May and 1 June in the Andorran ski resort of Ordino-ArcalÃs, with participants looking to climb the 480-metre ascent of the Mirador de Tristaina 19 times to total the same elevation gain as Mount Everest (8,848 metres or 29,029 feet).
What is Everesting?
Everesting is an ultra-endurance concept which began in 2014 in Australia but really grew in popularity in the lockdowns during the global Covid-19 pandemic.
Cycling, running and skiing tend to be the most common methods but the aim remains the same – repeatedly climbing a hill until reaching the elevation of Everest.
It can be any slope, at any time and using any method. In Capell’s case, it will be in Ordino, in the spring and on foot.
Transgrancanaria comes first
It will be the first official event to be held by Everesting worldwide and the 19 ascents of the top part of the Mirador de Tristaina will each be from 2,220 to 2,700 metres.
Participants have 48 hours to complete the 8,848 metres of vertical gain in what is described as an “inclusive” and “non-competitive experience”.
And the Catalan star said: “Participating in the first Everesting event is something I’m really looking forward to. Sharing the experience with other athletes who are looking to push their limits is very motivating.”
Before then he will tackle the very competitive Transgrancanaria race this weekend, the latest stop in the World Trail Majors Series. Among his rivals are Jon Albon and Tom Evans.
Capell won that 126km race four consecutive times between 2017 and 2020 but missed it last year when Raul Butaci and women’s ultrarunning legend Courtney Dauwalter came out on top.
Click here for our in-depth preview of this year’s race.
