Estelle

I had only 13 months of running experience. I had done some 10-12 km trails with 150 to 350 meters ascent and the 20km Marseille-Cassis. Just before this trail in Guadeloupe, I tested myself against the SaintéSprint: 24.5 km 500m ascent and 900m descent, which I completed in 3h14. I struggled with the downhills.

Two years ago, when I returned to the island, the idea of running made me uncomfortable. I didn’t truly believe I was capable. Yet, a year ago, I left that limiting belief behind and started running three times a week. A year ago, I registered on Campus, and I followed, one by one, the running plans that transformed my life.

Today, I explore the world of trail running. The trail that draws from my origins, me, who grew up in the mountains, surrounded by tropical forests. I have been following a specific trail plan for 11 weeks. I am advancing slowly towards my goals.

I was eager to run a race on my native island. I didn’t have a time goal. There was no time barrier either. I wanted to explore a distance with twice the elevation gain than I was used to, to prepare for my major goal in 2023.

This race was perilous but beautiful. I got lost several times. I exhausted my muscles on a climb that seemed endless. I thought I was going to lose my joints on the equally difficult downhill until the finish. I did 6km more than planned. I admired magnificent landscapes. I crossed the finish line with Vincent, a comrade in misfortune. We were last at 5H44, but the incredible atmosphere at our arrival would have brought a tear to the most unfeeling. 🥹

This unforgettable race for the small runner I am is a tribute to everything this island gave me during my childhood and everything it still teaches me today. This return to one's origins forces humility and resilience. This is exactly what I came to find. I'll return to the European mainland with doubled motivation and one more stone to pave the path towards achieving my goals, my dreams.

Guadeloupe, I'll never thank you enough!

I often sought the opinion of Campus members, coaches, and experts within the community: before launching my trail plan, to choose my target races, to discuss elevation, nutrition, and equipment. Going from 12 km trails to nearly 30 km scared me. I was even more afraid of the elevation. I received a lot of very wise advice that I follow to the letter to prepare myself. I can also see that my Trail plan workouts are helping me progress.

This year, my major goal will be early July: the Mini Hard with 27km and 1950 meters ascent.
I have planned several trails of 20 to 25 km to get used to this type of distance, a few days in the high mountains, hikes, and quite a bit of strengthening to handle the elevation. I also have a road half-marathon planned for the end of the year, but 2023 is marked by Trail!