On paper, it’s a DNF.
In reality, it’s my closest attempt yet.

This was my third try at the Swiss Alps 160. I’ve been further before in distance, but never this far in control. My pacing was sharper. My fueling was more deliberate. My decision-making was clearer — even in the heat, fever, and cramps.

Most importantly — I proved to myself that the fear of heights I’ve carried for years is gone. That was a huge mental weight lifted. I moved through those exposed sections fast and confident. That alone is a win I’ll carry forever.

The 14 Lessons from This Year
1. Go in with low expectations — you never know what race day will bring.
2. Push early enough to set a strong pace, but never past the point of no return.
3. Accept problems early — it saves more mental energy than fighting them.
4. Curiosity at the start line is already a win.
5. Trust your intuition when it says protect the body.
6. Don’t trust your mind in the lows — it will find excuses to stop.
7. Pain is temporary — and your body can endure far more than you think.
8. Know your “why” — it’s your anchor in the hard moments.
9. Learn the difference between discomfort and injury risk.
10. Find positives in chaos — they’ll keep you steady when everything feels unstable.
11. Reaction beats preparation — adapt to what’s in front of you.
12. Build the body for your unique demands — with 78 kg muscle and 7% body fat, my fueling strategy has to be precise.
13. The right team is rare — they’ll keep you moving when you can’t see straight.
14. Work with what you have — not what you wish you had.

The Pride

I’m leaving the Swiss Alps with:
• A proud chest.
• A deeper belief in my ability.
• More proof that I can make the hard calls in real time.
• Gratitude for my team and for the people I met out there — some strangers who became friends within minutes.

I’ve learned I don’t need to prove anything — not to anyone, not even to myself. One day, I’ll finish this race, and it won’t be by sheer force — it will be with flow, joy, and presence, embracing the pain alongside the people who matter most.

What’s Next

August 23: 100 km training run.
2026: Swiss Alps 160 — but this time with a looser grip, a steadier flow, and more joy at every aid station, no matter the cut-offs. This year showed me I’m already close. Now it’s about small adjustments, smarter training, and keeping the belief sharp.

Let’s fucking go!