Those magazine fans who read our active lifestyle publications will know that we have a penchant for active family holidays on the white coral indian ocean volcanic island that floats on the warm ocean like a vanilla ice cream in hot chocolate lava sauce. We love it there. It's a short flight from SA, has Supersport on TV to stay dialed into the world and you simply can't beat starting each day with a full belly, floating over tropical fish in clear, balmy salt water. Add in a trail run or ride in the magical mountains and you have the ideal fit-cation.
Most people have no idea that Mauritius is more than just palm tree lined white beaches with endless sunbeds for slothful living. There's a whole 2000 square kilometers of game reserves, sugar plantations and uninhabited steep volcanic mountains - all criss-crossed with bubbling rivers and animal & hiker trails. There's nothing like the view from high up a mountain in a tropical forest, looking down over turquoise water where you know you'll be soaking your tired muscles all afternoon, probably with a bottomless fresh coconut water infused cocktail glass.
I know the mountains there well but didn't know what to expect from the inaugural UTMB. How would a global series play out on a tourist island that has established trail run races and a relatively small running community?
I chose to cover the 100 miler, 100km and 50km on the saturday and then run the 20km on sunday to start and finish on the famous kite surfing beach below the magnificent Le Morne mountain where the serious candle burners were finishing saturday's ultras. I got to observe and experience this new event from both sides of the lens.
In short, the first ever UTMB Mauritius was a resounding success. Over 800 enthusiastic & friendly people signed up, many from Europe, especially France and a mix of countries from around the globe, including many South Africans. Despite the drenching rain, I loved the technical and spectacular short run. It was scenic, challenging, clearly marked and well organised. I also thoroughly enjoyed scouting the longer courses while witnessing the brave runners tackling the brutal ultras through a mix of terrain in pouring rain. Staying at the ideally located Heritage Awali golf and spa resort that was loaded with activities for family, right next to the registration and only a 30 minute very scenic coastal drive to the finish was a real plus to race and support runners of all distances and speeds.
Running on a tropical island in summer can mean stifling heat and humidity but in winter the temperature and humidity are mild. The gentle cooling rain made concentration, gear choices and technical skills critical which always add an element of excitement and the odd heart-resting forced walk. In June the ocean is still warm for swimming and snorkeling but not the wind free sunshine weather you get for much of the year - that's a trade off.
Registration process and services were solid, both online and pre-race in the enchanting old sugar mill, beside the world's largest sea shell museum. The early morning atmosphere at the start was electric and the stylish & exclusive 220 year old Parc du Château de Bel Ombre homestead ultras start venue added a real wow factor. The drink stations were well stocked and very friendly, as you can expect on an island famous for tourist service. With 750-2000m ascents the muddy trails were tough as hell but fortunately there were no serious accidents.
I would certainly go back, despite the weather. I spent much of my time interviewing participants and supporters of all ages and origins and all seemed stoked with what they experienced and keen to give the race a go in 2025. Amongst the crowds I noticed many happy saffas. Sit back and see why we think this race is worth a short hop flight for a memorable stone collecting holiday.
