Start Groups
To improve course flow and the overall race experience, start groups are designed to help runners set off with others of a similar expected pace.
No. If you are happy for your UTMB Index to be used when determining your start group, no action is required.
That is optional and for runners who consider their UTMB index is not reflective of their current performance.
We strongly encourage you to provide a realistic predicted finish time by the published deadline.
If you would like to start with a friend or group, we recommend entering the same predicted finish time. Please use the slowest realistic predicted finish time from your group. Small differences in predicted finish times may result in athletes being allocated to different start groups. If you are allocated to different start groups, you may start together in the later start group.
Start groups are determined using the available performance information for the registered field. This helps us place runners with others of a similar expected pace, support course flow, reduce congestion and create a safer, more enjoyable race experience.
Most runners will not need to provide proof. However, if your predicted finish time falls within an elite or competitive range, we will ask you to provide supporting performance information so we can review it fairly and consistently. Examples of supporting information may include official race results, UTMB race history, comparable trail running performances or other relevant performance record.
Your predicted finish time should be a realistic estimate based on your current training, previous race results and experience over a similar distance or terrain. If you are unsure, use the predicted finish time guide in the form to help choose an appropriate estimate.
We cannot determine that in advance. Allocations are finalized closer to the event when all available performance data is available. This allows Event Organisers to adjust Start Groups based on the registered field.
Whoops, skipped ahead to an earlier start group? You will automatically be disqualified. This cannot be contested. Missed your start group? Your time will start from the start group you started in. You will not be disqualified.
