Every August, Chamonix transforms into the epicenter of trail running with the legendary Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB®). Over the course of one unforgettable week, the world’s best trail runners descend on this Alpine village to take part in one of eight iconic races — all leading to the most celebrated finish line in mountain sports: the Chamonix town square. 

BOA® is no stranger to this epic event. Our team and athletes have been pushing boundaries in the Alps and showing up strong at UTMB since 2019. Like every runner who steps into this arena, they’ve tasted the highs of victory — and the sting of falling short. But every experience fuels the next challenge. 

In 2025, meet the BOA® athletes who are Dialed In for another epic showdown in Chamonix. 

Virginia Pérez Mesonero 

The Spanish ultra-trail specialist returns to CCC® by UTMB® in 2025 with renewed determination. After a heart-breaking DNF in 2024 — when she was running in the Top 10 but twisted her ankle just 9 km into the race — Virginia is back, stronger and more focused than ever. 

“This year, my dream is to reach the finish line with a good feeling, having given my 200%, and with a big smile on my face and great personal satisfaction for a job well done.” 

Her comeback started with a standout performance at Monte Rosa Trail by UTMB®, where she finished second in 12h 34min 33sec — placing 18th overall. Already familiar with UTMB World Series podiums (2nd at MCC® in 2023), she heads into CCC® with experience and a clear mindset: 

“It’s easy to get carried away by other people’s pace. You really have to stay focused on what you are capable of doing.” 

Her strategy? Save energy for Trient, then push hard through Vallorcine and attack the final stretch into Chamonix. For this journey, she trusts the Altra Timp 5 BOA®, equipped with PerformFit™ Wrap for micro-adjustable precision fit.

Philipp Ausserhofer 

The South Tyrolean ultra-runner returns to the 2025 UTMB® with unfinished business. After a difficult race in 2024, Philipp didn’t just move on — he analyzed every detail and came back hungrier than ever: 

“After the disappointment last year, I didn’t just move on — I sat down, reflected, and took action. I learned a lot from failing, and this time I’m coming back with more intention than ever. The goal is clear: crossing the finish line. And then, a lot is possible.” 

His recent 6th place at Lavaredo Ultra Trail by UTMB® (12h 41min 30s) and a win at UTVV Slovenia are proof that he's in top form. Training in the rugged terrain of the Stubai Alps, Philipp has honed not just his fitness, but his mindset: 

“You can’t fake it at UTMB. It demands everything — physically, mentally, logistically. I’ve made mistakes with pacing, fueling, mindset. This time, I’m going in with a calm, focused strategy.” 

He’s also helping shape the future of trail footwear: testing a new prototype shoe developed with SCARPA and BOA®. 

“It’s lightweight and fast, yet delivers the protection and stability I need. It’s built for the demands of high-level trail racing.” 

Gerald Fister "Sancho" 

Lining up beside Philipp at UTMB® 2025 is Austrian runner Gerald Fister — better known in the trail community as Sancho. Quiet in the media, loud in the mountains, his results speak for themselves. 

This year, Sancho claimed 2nd place at Hochkönigman Endurance (84.2 km / 5,030 m+) and 4th at Istria 100 by UTMB® (169 km / 6,600 m+). 

“I’m very satisfied with these results. Over the past six years, I’ve successfully completed ultratrails of various distances to build the toughness needed for 100 miles. I know how much has to align on race day — and I trust the experience I’ve gained so far.” 

Chamonix 2025 marks his third appearance at UTMB®, and he’s bringing both humility and firepower to the start line. His goal? To finish knowing: “I was well prepared, did everything right, and fought to the very end.”  Stay tuned — this might be the year the rest of the world learns his name. 

Here’s what makes the UTMB® week so iconic: 

UTMB® – Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (171 km / 10,000 m+) 

The crown jewel of ultra-trail running. A full circumnavigation of Mont Blanc through France, Italy, and Switzerland. This race is the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and mental strength. 

 TDS® – Sur les Traces des Ducs de Savoie (145 km / 9,100 m+) 

Known for its rugged terrain and remote alpine passes, the TDS demands strong technical skills and mountain savvy. A true wild race. 

 CCC® – Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix (100 km / 6,100 m+) 

The “little sister” of the UTMB — though there's nothing small about it. A high-altitude route through three countries, it's one of the most competitive races in the series. 

 OCC® – Orsières-Champex-Chamonix (55 km / 3,500 m+) 

Shorter in distance, but fast and fierce. A favorite among rising stars and mountain specialists. 

 PTL® – La Petite Trotte à Léon (300 km / 25,000 m+) 

An expedition race like no other. Unmarked, team-based, and without rankings, the PTL is about autonomy, adventure, and resilience. 

Each race finishes under the legendary arch in Chamonix.