Ultra trail support: the other unsung hero
In ultra trail, there are those you see… and those without whom nothing would be possible. Behind every finisher, there is often a silent, devoted duo, invisible at the finish line but essential at every step. That’s the key role support plays. Without it, ultra would simply be… less human, less smooth, less bearable.
The art of support
Sure, most races are designed for autonomy, with regular aid stations and sometimes drop bags. But when you aim for performance — or just better mental and physical management — support becomes a valuable lever. Provided it’s well prepared. A well-run aid station means saving time, energy… and sometimes morale.
Have you ever seen those Formula 1-style "pit stops" in the middle of an ultra? Nothing is left to chance. Every move is anticipated, every need foreseen. And behind this well-oiled ballet, there’s often someone who hasn’t slept, hasn’t run, but has given everything.
Mickaël and Fiona: ultra, duo style
Mickaël Berthon is one of those trail runners who loves very long distances. Chartreuse Terminorum, TOR des Géants… he lines up legendary races. But what you don’t always see is Fiona, his partner, who accompanies him on every ultra with extraordinary commitment.
She doesn’t run… but she makes all the difference.
At the TOR des Géants (330 km and 24,000 m elevation gain), Fiona is present at every life base. Her mission? Be everywhere. And think of everything. Nutrition, gear, hydration, motivation. She prepares the aid stations, manages clothing changes, recharges the watch, cleans the flasks, anticipates the weather, packs the bags, recharges the headlamps… and smiles.
Thinking for two
When Mickaël arrives, often exhausted, Fiona has to be an extension of himself. React quickly, speak little, do right. She knows if he needs a coffee or a snack, a moment of calm or a word to shake him up. She prepared identical bags to switch easily, without forgetting anything. She knows that if one detail is off, the whole race can turn upside down.
And when he leaves? She tidies up, does it all again, hits the road, posts a story, follows the GPS track, anticipates the next point… and starts over.
Community manager, nutritionist, logistician, lover
In these races where you run alone… you never succeed alone. Fiona is that constant presence, invisible on Strava segments, but essential at every stride. And she’s not alone: behind every ultra-trail runner, there’s often a Fiona, a brother, a friend, a parent who lives the adventure intensely, but differently.
We can’t wait to see this duo back on the trails
Because ultra is anything but an individual sport. It’s a story of trust, organization, resilience… as a pair. Kudos to Mickaël for his feats. And kudos to Fiona, for everything she does without ever crossing the finish line — but contributing 100% to it.
