Dhiman and L'Hirondel win UTMB in Chamonix — image accompanying Athletics Weekly's report. Image accompanying Athletics Weekly’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
American Ben Dhiman set a new fastest time in UTMB history, finishing in 18:16:29. Blandine L'Hirondel won the women's race, completing a rare career sweep. Both achieved the fastest times ever recorded on the course.
The race faced challenges with storms reshaping the course and several top runners not finishing. Dhiman led early, finishing 31:09 ahead of Baptiste Chassagne. L'Hirondel took the lead after Courtney Dauwalter's withdrawal and finished well ahead of Rachel Entrekin and Emily Schmitz. Read more trail coverage.
Neither winning time is officially recognized as a course record due to course changes. L'Hirondel's victory is significant as she had barely raced since an injury in May. She is the first Frenchwoman to win UTMB since 2016. Related: Lucy Bartholomew Reflects on UTMB Journey Ahead of 2026 Race.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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Questions about this report
What should runners know about Dhiman and L'Hirondel win UTMB in Chamonix?
Ben Dhiman and Blandine L'Hirondel claimed the titles in a dramatic race. American Ben Dhiman set a new fastest time in UTMB history, finishing in 18:16:29. Blandine L'Hirondel won the women's race, completing a rare career sweep. Both achieved the fastest times ever recorded on the course.
When did Runner World publish this trail brief?
Runner World published this brief on August 29, 2026. The underlying Athletics Weekly report was dated August 29, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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