Ruth Croft: Preparing for the 2025 Transvulcania Ultramarathon
In the world of ultramarathon racing, few athletes shine as brightly as Ruth Croft from New Zealand. As the reigning champion and current course record holder of the Transvulcania Ultramarathon, Ruth returns for the 2025 event with a wealth of experience and determination. In a recent interview, she shared her insights on the race, her past performance, and her training strategies leading up to this highly competitive event.
Returning to a Unique Challenge
Ruth first raced the Transvulcania in 2016, finishing third. Since then, her journey has seen her rise to the top of the ultra-running world, clinching victory in 2024 and setting the course record. When asked what motivates her return for a third time, Ruth expressed appreciation for the race’s unique characteristics. “You start at the ocean and climb up a volcano,” she shared, highlighting the stunning scenery and the enthusiastic local support that makes the event special.
The Journey to La Palma
Traveling from New Zealand to the Canary Islands is no small feat, with a journey time of around 40 hours. Ruth arrived several days ahead of the event to mitigate jet lag, stating that it typically takes her about five days to adjust. “I started feeling a lot better just yesterday,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of acclimatization in her race preparation.
Reflecting on Last Year’s Performance
Ruth’s 2024 performance was remarkable. She led the race for a significant portion and managed to set a new course record, finishing just two minutes under the previous record held by Ida Nilsson. Despite the pressure of competition, Ruth candidly acknowledged her struggles with altitude during the race. She felt she could improve on her performance, particularly in the high-altitude sections, where she encountered difficulties last year.
Strategizing for Success
To enhance her performance this year, Ruth focused on specific areas of improvement. “I want to feel better in that section where I struggled last year,” she said, indicating her intent to tackle the challenging terrain with renewed vigor. In addition to traditional training runs, Ruth has incorporated unique strategies, such as using a weighted vest to build strength in her climbs.
Comprehensive Training and Recovery
Ruth’s journey over the past year has not been limited to training for Transvulcania. She indicated that her experience at last year’s UTMB helped her understand long-distance racing better. Following UTMB, she took time off to recover both physically and mentally, allowing her to realign her focus and eventually prepare for this year’s challenges.
Embracing Balance in Life and Training
The balance between rigorous training and personal time is essential for Ruth. She recently spent her recovery period engaging in various activities, including studying naturopathy, renovating her home, and even undergoing a 10-day silent meditation retreat. “It was a refreshing break, and I came back ready to dive into training,” she noted, demonstrating her commitment to both her sport and personal growth.
Looking Forward to 2025
As race day approaches, Ruth reflects on the importance of training diversity. While she acknowledges the risks associated with injuries stemming from extensive exploratory activities, such as tramping, she also considers the mental and physical benefits of increased time spent on her feet. “It’s a fine line,” she remarked, advocating for safety while also emphasizing the enriching experience provided by nature.
Join the Live Coverage
Fans and followers of ultra-running can look forward to comprehensive coverage leading up to the race weekend. Be sure to check out in-depth previews for the men’s and women’s events, and stay tuned for live coverage on Twitter/X to catch all the action as it unfolds.
Final Thoughts
Ruth Croft’s insightful reflections as she prepares for the 2025 Transvulcania Ultramarathon underline the dedication and resilience required in elite sports. Her journey offers lessons not just for aspiring ultrarunners, but for anyone looking to blend passion with perseverance. With anticipation building for the upcoming race, all eyes will be on Ruth as she strives to conquer the course yet again.
