The Road to UTMB: A Journey of Resilience

Scott Rob is a member of WildStrong Falkland. His journey to completing the legendary Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is nothing short of extraordinary. From broken toes and kneecaps to battling osteopenia, Scott faced immense physical and mental challenges. His story highlights resilience, the power of community, and the transformative role WildStrong played in helping him achieve his ultimate goal. Despite setbacks, Scott reflects on the "hardest race he's ever done" with pride, gratitude, and a renewed appreciation for the adventure.

Scott writes…

Created in 2003, the UTMB is often called "the most mythical and prestigious trail running race in the world." Spanning 171 kilometres and 10,000 metres of positive elevation gain, the course circles Mont Blanc, crossing through Italy, Switzerland, and France. It's widely regarded as the ultimate challenge that every ultra-runner should attempt at least once in their life.

I first discovered the UTMB in 2010 when I began running ultras and quickly became obsessed with the idea of participating. However, getting there isn’t straightforward. You must first collect points from other 100-mile races. Once you have enough points, you enter a lottery that can take years to secure a place.

I finally earned my spot in 2019, but four weeks before the race, I broke my toe. I decided to start anyway, despite the risks. Unfortunately, midway through, I kicked a boulder while descending a mountain and re-broke the toe. I had to pull out at Courmayeur. From that moment, my focus was on qualifying again.

Disaster struck in 2022 when I slipped and broke my kneecap while running in the Highlands. A doctor told me my ultra-running days were likely over. But I wasn't ready to accept that. I’ve seen athletes with significant physical challenges thrive, so why couldn’t I?

After three months in a leg brace, I joined WildStrong. My wife, Lisa, had been a member and loved it. I needed to rebuild strength in my legs and regain overall fitness. Within a few months, I noticed a remarkable difference, especially in my leg’s flexibility and strength. I was on my way back.

I attempted a 40-mile race during my recovery, but a nagging pain in my right leg turned out to be a stress fracture. This led to further tests, which revealed I had osteopenia due to a lack of calcium and vitamin D. With advice from a consultant and a nutritionist, I revamped my diet and began working on a sustainable recovery plan.

In 2023, I finally secured a spot in the UTMB but decided to defer to 2024. Returning to WildStrong after healing my fracture made all the difference. It strengthened me to a level where I felt "bulletproof" against injury.

Completing the UTMB in 2024 was the most challenging yet rewarding experience of my life. Running and moving for 45 hours without rest, covering 110 miles of mountainous terrain, was both a physical and mental battle. The massive climbs broke my spirit at times, but I was determined to finish. I can’t say the race was enjoyable—it was grueling—but the sense of accomplishment afterwards is indescribable. A month later, I’m still riding the high.

WildStrong has been pivotal in my journey. The workouts, the banter, and the community make even the darkest, rainiest evenings enjoyable. It’s not like going to a gym—I always leave WildStrong feeling great. Without it, I don’t think my body could handle the punishment these endurance events demand.

For anyone considering the UTMB, my advice is simple: train your body, prepare your mind for the "pain cave," and embrace the adventure. It’s an experience like no other, and while it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, it’s also the most rewarding.