Lessons from the UTMB: Valentin Orange on DNF and Growth

In this Lecka Bites episode, trail runner Valentin Orange talks about his recent attempt at the UTMB 100-mile race. Valentin shares his rigorous training journey after moving back to the French Alps and how his excitement turned to struggle during the race, with fatigue and knee pain eventually forcing him to stop at kilometre 115.
Reflecting on his DNF (Did Not Finish), Valentin identifies factors such as overtraining, inadequate rest, and lack of focus on nutrition, noting that his mental resilience was also tested.
The experience has prompted him to adjust his approach to future races, focusing more on setting realistic goals and listening to his body.
Valentin finds gratitude in the lessons learned, recognizing that setbacks can provide valuable insights into both physical and mental endurance.
Timestamps:
(00:10) Intro Valentin Orange
(01:20) Recap of his UTMB 100 mile race
(06:00) What's happening inside the mind when stopping?
(11:30) The new feeling of DNF & how to overcome it
(16:40) The importance of nutrition in training
(21:20) Dealing with impermanent pain
(24:16) How a DNF builds character & changes one's life
(26:00) Changing approach in public exposure
(29:15) Training the mind
(30:50) Many factors impact performance
Links:
/ val_orange
/ @val_orange
valentinorange...
Available on all major podcast platforms:
Listen on Spotify (open.spotify.c...) Listen on Apple Podcast (podcasts.apple...)
---
Special 10% discount for US listeners: BITES10
Visit our website: www.getlecka.com
Follow us on Instagram: leckanutrition
Reach out: [e-mail]
Shop on Amazon: amazon.com