From the road to the track and now the trails, Ida-Sophie Hegemann has competed in just about every form of running. And curiously, what makes trail running special to her isn’t something extra the sport has, but rather something that is completely absent.
In trail running, there is no distinction between women and men. At UTMB, Transgrancanaria and every other major trail race, women and men compete side by side.
Same course, same distance, same opportunity, which gives generational female talents like Ida the chance to show just what they can do.
“Now you’re seeing more and more... Women are finishing in the top 10, the top 5 at the biggest races in the world.”
The longer, the better
Far from just lining up together on the start line, male and female trail runners are more and more evenly matched, particularly on long courses. “I think women are incredible at thinking positively and overcoming challenges,” says Ida. “When it’s more about the head than the legs, we come to the fore in races.”
Run your own race
Whereas there’s no distinction between athletes in trail running, the same can’t be said of the courses. “Every race has different terrain, distance and elevation” Ida explains. “But this is also super nice as it means it’s all about running your own race and pushing your perceived limits.”
“In trail running there isn’t a record time for 5k or 10k so you’re not constantly comparing yourself. It’s all about you and your aims.”
Never Stop Her.
Not a demand to those who standing in our way.
But a message from those paving it.
Three simple words, and so much more.
Words of encouragement. Votes of confidence.
Heartfelt assurance that you can do this.
No race too long. No move too hard.
No pressure around you. No ceiling above you.
Take it from us. There are no limits.
Save for the ones you set yourself.
Never Stop Molly
Molly Thompson-Smith
Never Stop Camilla
Camilla-Moroni