From Vermont to the Alps – David Sinclair’s Remarkable 2nd Place at the CCC 100K.

After a summer of focused training in the mountains of Vermont, David Sinclair took on the legendary CCC 100K trail race, part of the UTMB World Series. Spanning Italy, Switzerland, and France — with over 20,000 feet of climbing and 1,900 competitors from around the globe — CCC is more than just a race; it's a true test of endurance.

Preparation – Sugarbush to Chamonix. David spent the summer training on Vermont’s Sugarbush Mountain, logging long runs and grinding out steep climbs to build strength and endurance. His cross-country skiing background gave him a distinct edge — especially on the grueling climbs, where his efficiency with poles helped him move smoothly and conserve energy. In the final month before the race, David was running around 40 km each week to prepare for the sustained vertical gain and technical descents of the CCC.

“Over a year now I wanted to move up to 100K. It was really cool to commit to it.”

Race Day – Smart Racing, Steady Climbing. The race begins with a brutal 4,000-foot climb in the first five miles, but David settled in quickly. Glimpses of Mont Blanc’s glaciers and a perfect morning helped him stay locked in. “I felt good early and found a rhythm.”

What Made the Difference. David’s success at CCC came down to a blend of smart decisions, disciplined preparation, and sharp execution. Months of focused training laid the foundation, while a composed mindset on race day carried him through.

Confident in his plan, David relied on a simple, well-tested nutrition strategy — all liquid calories, including neutral-flavored gels and Coke at aid stations. His gear setup was equally intentional: lightweight, efficient, and built for technical mountain terrain. A key component was the super gravel shoe, which combined reliable traction with a responsive feel, helping him confidently power through every climb and descent.

All the commitment paid off. After countless hours on the trails, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, David Sinclair delivered the performance of a lifetime, powering through one of the most competitive fields in ultra-trail running.

Crossing the finish line in 10 hours, 13 minutes, and 42 seconds, David claimed 2nd place in one of the fastest times ever on the course. A moment that will be remembered for years to come.

“It’s the most incredible race I’ve ever done, I had to dig really deep to get to the finish.”

“It’s been an incredible couple of weeks here. I’m leaving satisfied, proud to cap off a long summer of training with this second-place finish.”

What’s next? Only time will tell. But one thing’s certain — David’s just getting started. And with that 10-hour barrier in sight, there’s every reason to believe he’ll be back, ready to chase it down.