Qualification plan · UTMB Mont-Blanc
From winning pace to cut-off
The 2026 race covered 171 km and 10,000 m+. Here is how fast the winner moved, how much time the cut-off allows, and 16 weeks of training to get you to the start line.
Two ends of the same race
| Benchmark | Time | Average pace | Average speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blandine L'Hirondel, 1st woman 2026 | 21:54:49 | 7:41 /km | 7.80 km/h |
| Final cut-off | 46h 30m | 16:19 /km | 3.68 km/h |
Averages are calculated from finish time over 171 km and include every climb, descent and aid stop. Finish time reported by Trail Runner; montblanc.utmb.world. Cut-offs can change, so check the official page.
Weekly training splits
Climb is shown as a share of your own peak week, so the plan scales to you. General guidance, not a personal prescription.
| Week | Phase | Climb | Focus | Key session |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base | 40% | Easy, frequent running. Build the habit before the hills. | Long easy run or hike 1.5–2 h |
| 2 | Base | 45% | Easy, frequent running. Build the habit before the hills. | Long easy run or hike 1.5–2 h |
| Weeks 3–16 are for members. See plans | ||||
Project 171 is independent of UTMB®. Mont-Blanc race guide · Full 16-week plan with every session