UTMB 2025: Albert Courau’s Mountain Marathon

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) week draws the biggest names in trail running every year, along with passionate runners chasing their own mountain dreams. Among them was 23-year-old Albert Courau, who lined up for the MCC from Martigny-Combe to Chamonix, a 40 km race with 2,300 m of elevation gain in the heart of the Alps. More than a sporting challenge, he was carrying a powerful mission: raising awareness of youth suicide in memory of his friend Gaspard.

Running to raise awareness

We interviewed Albert a few weeks ago in a previous article. The 23-year-old runs for a cause: to raise awareness and break the silence surrounding youth suicide. It is a campaign he leads in memory of his friend Gaspard, who died three years ago.

The race bib of the summer

Summer was far from restful for Albert, who was deep into his preparations for the MCC, held on Monday, August 25 between Martigny-Combe and Chamonix. The challenge: 40 kilometers and 2,350 meters of elevation gain, to be completed in under 10 hours to avoid disqualification. Albert finished in 5 hours and 33 minutes, placing 217th among 1,198 finishers.

Race debrief

In a cheerful voice and with no shortage of superlatives, Albert told us how his race had gone. A sneaker enthusiast who knows the area around Chamonix well, he loved taking in the spectacular scenery near Mont Blanc for more than five hours. Beyond the sporting challenge, he spoke at length about the atmosphere and the enjoyment he felt throughout the race.

What is your best memory?

It was a childhood dream to be here in Chamonix for the UTMB, wearing a race bib. Running alongside Mathis Dumas, crossing paths with Germain Grangier on the course and seeing Baptiste Chassagne at the aid station was incredible. All the biggest names in trail running were there.

How did you manage your race?

I loved the race, the course and the atmosphere were exceptional. I managed my effort well and was happy with how things went, even though it got a little tougher around Argentière, at about kilometer 28. Overall, everything went well. I felt good and really enjoyed it.

What’s next?

I’m going to take stock of the fundraiser and the communications work carried out to support the study on psychological distress among young people, conducted by the Femme Mère Enfant Hospital (HFME) in partnership with the Hospices Civils de Lyon (HCL) foundation. For now, my priority is getting back to Paris for the start of the new academic year.

By completing this mountain marathon in 5:33, Albert Courau once again showed that running can be about far more than a physical challenge. It can be a vehicle for solidarity, awareness and hope. The UTMB gave him a unique platform to amplify his message, and there is little doubt this is only one step in his fight to break the silence around youth mental health.