The Ultra-Trail du Haut Giffre (UTHG), a popular multi-day trail running event in the French Alps, was struck by tragedy on Saturday, June 15th, 2024, when a runner died and three others were injured due to treacherous weather conditions.
The incident occurred in the early morning hours as heavy rain and snow at higher elevations transformed the mountainous terrain into a slippery and hazardous course. Four runners fell on a particularly challenging section of the trail, leading to the unfortunate death of a man in his 50s, believed to be due to cardiac arrest. Three other runners, two men and one woman, were also injured and transported to a nearby hospital. Two of the injured are reported to be in serious but stable condition, while the third sustained less severe injuries.
Race organizers, upon learning of the accidents, promptly halted the event and initiated a large-scale rescue operation involving local firefighters and the Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne (PGHM), a specialized mountain rescue service. The remaining participants were evacuated from the course, ensuring their safety amidst the deteriorating conditions.
In a statement, UTHG organizers expressed their deep sadness over the tragic events and offered condolences to the family and friends of the deceased runner. “In such circumstances, we have decided to cancel the rest of the event,” they stated. “All our thoughts are with the victim’s family and relatives.”
The Bonneville public prosecutor’s office has launched an investigation into the incident, seeking to determine the exact cause of the falls and evaluate the safety measures implemented by race organizers. Météo Alpes, a weather service provider for the region, had forecasted intense meteorological conditions, including thunderstorms and snow at higher elevations, raising questions about the decision to proceed with the race.
The UTHG tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with mountain running and the importance of preparedness in unpredictable weather conditions. While the French Alps offer breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain for trail runners, they can also pose significant dangers, particularly during inclement weather.
This unfortunate event has sent shockwaves through the trail running community, with many expressing their condolences and sharing their experiences from the race. It highlights the need for continued vigilance and comprehensive safety protocols in such challenging environments.
As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the affected runners and their families while ensuring that lessons are learned from this tragedy to prevent similar incidents in the future.
