The Alps stand over Chamonix and Courmayeur as Goliath did to David. Even though the towns are only separated by an 11km tunnel they are distinctly unique.
The start of CCC, the second-to-last race in the UTMB week-long festival, is as brutal as it is beautiful. The crowds line the streets to catch a glimpse of the army of runners embark on their ascent.
Refugio Bonatti, an aid station for UTMB, is a breathtaking view with a café, two things Italy tends to pair together. Once through Italy, Champex-Lac in Suisse tends to be the ‘kilometer’ stone that runners rally for the second half.
There’s still another country to trek through as crossing the line in Chamonix is the ultimate objective.
