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I Attempted the Swiss Alps 100 in 35 DEGREE Heat and THIS is what happened

Film My Run

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In 1865, my great uncle Edward Whymper became the first person to conquer the iconic Matterhorn, but only after facing multiple failed attempts. Inspired by his perseverance, I set out to run the Swiss Alps 100K, a race known for its breathtaking views and brutal challenges.

With 6,000 meters of elevation gain, searing heat, and dizzying heights over the Aspi-Titter suspension bridge, this journey was more than a race. It was a tribute to the resilience that runs in my family’s blood. Like Whymper, who faced defeat seven times before triumphing, I took on this race knowing that success isn’t always immediate but always worth pursuing.

I battle the elements, confront my limits, and reflect on my great uncle’s legacy along the way. It’s a story of grit, defeat, and the relentless pursuit of achievement. With @timeonfeet and @JeffPelletier

Hit subscribe and follow along on this journey of endurance, grit, and relentless pursuit of success. Join me when I try again, because, like Whymper, I won’t give up.

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Chapters

1. Introduction and Background (0:00)
Edward Whymper and the Matterhorn
Arriving in Feisch for the Swiss Alps 100K

2. Pre-Race Preparations (2:30)
Exploring the area with friends
Crossing the suspension bridge
Losing and finding apartment key

3. Race Day Eve (6:00)
Meeting other runners
Watching 100 mile race start

4. Race Morning (9:30)
Final preparations
Race start

5. The First Climb (11:30)
Initial ascent details
Reaching first aid station

6. Along the Glacier (15:00)
Running alongside Aletsh Glacier
Meeting Carla on the course

7. The Suspension Bridge (18:30)
Approaching and crossing the bridge
Reaching next aid station

8. The Heat Intensifies (21:30)
Struggling with rising temperatures
Reaching 30km mark

9. Fighting to Continue (25:00)
Battling heat and nausea
Reaching Blitzingen aid station

10. The Final Push (29:00)
Attempting last climb
Decision to stop

11. Reflection and Future Plans (34:00)
Thoughts on DNF the next day
Plans to return next year

#filmmyrun
#swissalps100
#runningvideos
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20 Comments

@konrad983 1 year ago (edited)

Stephen, you should win The Channel of The Lifetime Award in the Running category. I love watching your films. Congrats on this run and all challenges on a route. You're the best!

@barriehobbs4533 1 year ago

I sometimes think Brits underestimate just how difficult it is taking on the Alps. You might think there are mountains in the UK but if you look at the background in your last summary to camera it puts it into perspective. And whereas there are undoubtedly very tough routes in Scotland and Wales they rarely come packaged with 30C plus heat. And all that's before dealing with altitude which is never an issue in the UK. Certainly no shame at all in your effort.

@andrewbennett875 1 year ago

Great video Stephen, i think its really important to give us these DNF videos aswell as the glory. I recently DNF'd a 100 and its tough to swallow. As for a certain 'not being mean' comment... I wouldnt pay too much attention to it, we all have an option to not watch anything we dont get on with. Keep uo the good work! And the advice you kindly gave me on running ultras just weeks apart worked a treat, i managed 66 miles in the 12 hour limit on the track, which is the fastest I have ever covered that kind of distance.

@Phantom_Six 1 year ago

I absolutely love this video! You are such an inspiration for me on my running journey. Even when you are unable to complete something you still give it your all and come out the other side with a great attitude. I know you will crush it next year my friend and I look forward to seeing that effort! I hope I'll run into you out on the trails someday. Keep up the amazing work with these films!

@picabo104jp 1 year ago

What a tough challenge! My sincere thanks for filming under the circumstances. Thanks for the beautiful scenery, music and great stories. Good luck next year Stephen!!

@timeonfeet 1 year ago

Loved this Stephen, brought back some amazing memories of a special trip. Beautifully crafted video as always, always honest and sharing the highs and lows. Glad you can head back next year too with Victoria!

@nicoleschegg1337 1 year ago

Your film has inspired me to cross the Swiss Alps 100 off our to-do list and give my husband a starting place for Christmas 🎄. I have already signed up to volunteer at one of the aid stations. We certainly hope that you will give it another go, joined by the wonderful and incredibly inspiring Victoria. Hopefully we will see you in Fiesch 🥵

@TheBramptonValleyRunner 1 year ago

Well done on that effort in the heat. That bridge reminds me of the end of Temple of doom!

@Ballard74 1 year ago

Well done x great effort don't be hard on yourself looked a tough day out in the heat. Keep the videos coming and hopefully will bump into you on the trails soon 💪

@chrisarnell1 1 year ago

Loved the video, Stephen. Those of us who've run with you know how good an athlete you are and for you to DNF shows just how tough some of these events can be. I'm delighted you're going back next year and wishing you and Victoria the very best of luck.

@tpgenge 1 year ago

as always - great video!!

@Frabart05 1 year ago

The heat was brutal that day, so many people dropped out. Thanks for the great film, brings back memories

@SebRunning 1 year ago

I'm so impressed, it's so beautiful there. Your film is, as always, brilliant.

@Dee78584 1 year ago (edited)

Looks like an amazing race. I went to Zermatt for the first time in the summer - what an amazing place, a trail lovers dream. As always your videos are inspiring no matter your result, you capture the highs and lows of our sport, thank you.

@laurippt 1 year ago

Really beautiful trail! So sorry about the DNF and the heat! It’s so hard to keep going when your body is not heat acclimated, and even so some days are just too much! Awesome video! I really enjoyed it!

@gerrybesworth7762 1 year ago

Stephen, thanks for this raw and honest video. Even when knackered you have wonderful composure and a positive (or perhaps well edited) attitude. You continue to be an inspiration!

@roychambers2900 1 year ago

Stephen - always enjoy these videos. Thank you for putting them together whatever the race outcome. You have achieved so many great finishes over the years that this heat induced DNF seems irrelevant in the grand scheme of your achievements. It did allow for a great watching experience through some breathtaking scenery. Thanks again.

@RunTrails 1 year ago

Always good to see you suffer Stephen! Looks like you got a bit too much sun too early on. You’ll smash it next year.

@danielrosner4296 1 year ago

If you want to have a cool Matterhorn experience, hike to the Hörnlihut. It's super spectacular... a white-blue-white graded trail but a relatively easy one. You can reach the hut either from Zermatt village or also from Schwarzsee.