116 local life A history of enthusiasts The history of the event began with the creation of the new UTMB World Series Trail circuit, also known as the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc. When Jean-Yves Rey, currently Director of Crans Montana Exploitation, heard about UTMB’s search to create a new trail circuit, he discussed it with Rémi Duchemin, a Crans Montana resident who was also a member of UTMB. Jean-Yves had already completed the Wildstrubel tour more than ten years ago. Together, they approached the resort’s Tourist Office. As a result, a reconnaissance of the route was organised for September 2021. Jean-Yves Rey, Rémi Duchemin and Ryan Baumann had the privilege of exploring the trails. The beauty of the course was enough to convince them of its exceptional potential. So Crans Montana submitted its bid to become a World Tour event. In November 2021, the UTMB accepted Wildstrubel’s bid to become one of 30 UTMB World Series races worldwide. After taking part in the UTMB six times, Ryan Baumann, who has been passionate about trail running for 20 years, became the race director. The first edition has been scheduled for September 2022, leaving them just a few months to organise everything. This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the close collaboration of the five resorts: Crans Montana, Leukerbad, Kandersteg, Adelboden and La Lenk. These prestigious locations are an integral part of the Grand Tour, the Wildstrubel’s premier race. What’s more, the regions of Bern and Valais have generously supported the event, both financially and logistically.
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