Record-breaking German star trying ‘to make the impossible possible’ at Hardrock 100

Last year’s record-breaking Tor des Géants winner Katharina Hartmuth returns to the fray at Hardrock 100 this week – her first race since.

The Swiss-based German star was third at Hardrock 12 months ago and was also runner-up to the GOAT Courtney Dauwalter in her historic 2023 triumph at UTMB.

But she’s had a bit of a rollercoaster ride since that epic victory last year in the feature race at Tor – which covered 330km in the Italian Alps and over 24,000 metres of climbing.

Injury meant she did more cycling than running at points earlier this year but now things appear to be very much back on track.

‘Many ups and downs’

Writing on her Instagram page recently, Hartmuth said: “Time flies… only one more week to go until we run at @hardrock100run!! Excitement levels are definitely rising and I am so much looking forward to finally race again 😊

“Its been a long way since @tordesgeants with many ups and downs.

“With all the different setbacks in mind I’m actually quite surprised I still could squeeze in a couple longer days in the last few weeks! However, I was operating along a very fine line between doing everything I can and doing too much given I couldn’t run for almost two months.

“A few niggles here and there were unavoidable – but I guess thats what it takes when you try to make the impossible possible 🙃”

Schide stands in her way

An on-song Hartmuth would clearly be one of the big favourites, though reigning UTMB champ Katie Schide tops that list on what is her first Hardrock appearance.

And Hartmuth added: “My last long run is in the books and now its time to rest. I certainly need that rest after an intense couple weeks at altitude.

“At the same time, I’m getting more excited with every day and can’t wait to line up with a bunch of wonderful people for a wild & tough adventure!”