A change and a new start for the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc®

Press Release / 14.11.2014

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® and The North Face® agreed not to renew their partnership. The success of the 2014 edition concluded twelve years of a very positive cooperation for both organizations.

"During 12 years of shared adventure, the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® and The North Face® have woven together the necessary solid links to give the event an international dimension. UTMB® continues on his way with the same team spirit and sharing that he has shown since the beginning" - Catherine Poletti

As of today the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® is proud and happy to welcome three new brands from the Columbia Sportswear Company - Columbia, Mountain Hardwear and Montrail - into its Partners Club. These three brands share the spirit, enthusiasm and passion which are all part of the event's DNA. Their intention is to be highly involved with the development of the UTMB® event 2015 (August 24th-30th) and beyond.

"We are very excited to support this iconic, world class event that brings together such a large number of outdoor athletes setting new boundaries for the sport." says Franco Fogliato, SVP, General Manager EMEA, Columbia Sportswear Company. "Our brands are committed to deliver unique products and technologies to support all participants and outdoor enthusiasts in the most challenging conditions."

"Mountain Hardwear is a proud partner of the UTMB. The UTMB brings together the largest and most diverse global community of outdoor, mountain and trail running cultures to test themselves on the most demanding, beautiful, awe-inspiring trails in the world." says Topher Gaylord, President Mountain Hardwear and several times Finisher of the UTMB (2nd at the first race edition). "The spirit of commitment, resolve and camaraderie bonds runners to each other - and the will to finish".

In 12 years the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc® has become an event which successfully runs five large races recognised by trail runners worldwide. It links together communities and the world of trail-running around common values and enthusiasm as it travels through three countries - France, Italy and Switzerland. 

The UTMB® is following its path through team spirit and the sense of sharing that it has had from the very start.

Columbia Sportswear Company is a leading innovator in the global apparel, footwear, accessories and equipment markets. Columbia Sportswear Company designs, develops, markets and distributes active outdoor and lifestyle products under the following brands: Columbia, Mountain Hardwear, Sorel, Montrail and prAna.

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