UTDS 73KM

UTDS 73KM

The format that didn't disappoint

Starting in Franchimont, in Theux, this 73 km stage of the Ultra Trail des Sources makes it immediately clear what lies ahead: 2,279 m of elevation gain and dense, challenging Ardennes terrain with no real respite.

From the very first kilometres, you are immersed in the region’s characteristic atmosphere: deep, sometimes dark forests, where the trails wind between roots and uneven ground, followed by deep valleys that break up the rhythm with steep climbs and technical descents.

The route then alternates with more open sections, where your gaze reaches further, across hilly and open landscapes typical of the foothills of the High Fens.

Occasionally, you run alongside or through areas characterised by water: streams, marshes, soggy ground, which make progress harder and demand precision in your footwork.

This diversity of landscapes gives the race its rhythm, but never really lets you catch your breath: every environment brings its own difficulties. Over this distance, you remain in race mode, but with the basic rules of the ultra: pace management, nutrition, mental clarity.

The pitfall is to start too fast, assuming that ‘73 km is doable’: here, the accumulation of climbs and the gruelling profile ultimately always make the difference.

If you stay focused and in control, you can perform; otherwise, the course will quickly catch up with you.

A demanding, uncompromising format, ideal for reaching a milestone... or for learning to take the rough with the smooth.