Chamonix, France.
British Glory at UTMB as history was made when Britain’s Tom Evans secured victory, becoming the British male champion of the iconic 100-mile race around Mont Blanc. In a day already marked by drama and volatile weather, Evans’ triumph was the crowning moment for UK ultra-running, capped off by fellow Brit Josh Wade’s impressive third place.
While Evans and New Zealand’s Ruth Croft took the top honours, it was the sight of two Union Jacks on the men’s podium that will be remembered as one of the standout moments in UTMB history.
Evans Fulfils His Destiny
After disappointment in the last two years, a third-place finish in 2022 was followed by two consecutive DNFs, Evans finally delivered the performance that many had long predicted. Patient through the early kilometres, he bided his time before launching a decisive move on the climb to the Grand Col Ferret. From there, the 32-year-old Brit only widened the gap, carving out a commanding lead.
He crossed the line in 19:18:56, arms aloft in front of rapturous crowds in Chamonix, securing both personal redemption and national pride.
“It was the most incredible race possible,” Evans said afterwards. “We had snow, rain, sunshine — very British weather! The mountains always test you with everything they’ve got. Today, I managed to hold on.”
Wade’s Charge Completes a British Double
The day wasn’t just about Evans. Fellow Brit Josh Wade produced one of the performances of his career, coming from behind to storm into the top three in the latter stages. His gritty run saw him finish in 20:05:06, earning him the final spot on the podium and sealing a British 1–3 that will go down in UTMB folklore.
Sandwiched between them was American Ben Dhiman, who ran a steady and consistent race to secure second place in 19:51:37.
Croft Creates Her Own Piece of History
In the women’s race, it was New Zealand’s Ruth Croft who took centre stage, winning in 22:56:23. Her victory was not only dominant but also historic: she became the first woman to win all three UTMB World Series Finals (UTMB, CCC and OCC), a feat previously only achieved by Xavier Thévenard.
France’s Camille Bruyas claimed second in 23:28:48, while Germany’s Katharina Hartmuth took third in 24:16:39. Three-time defending champion Courtney Dauwalter faded late and finished outside the top ten, marking a rare off-day for the American superstar.
Photo credit: David Miller
Weather Drama and Emotional Highs
The 22nd edition of the race will also be remembered for the conditions. Unstable weather forced organisers to neutralise the high crossing of the Pyramides Calcaires, with runners instead battling snow, rain, and cold before a late return of sunshine.
Despite the elements, the atmosphere around Mont Blanc was electric. From elite athletes to amateur adventurers, thousands pressed on through the night, fuelled by cheers from packed trailside crowds.
UTMB 2025 – Podium Results
Men
🥇 Tom Evans (GBR) – 19:18:56
🥈 Ben Dhiman (USA) – 19:51:37
🥉 Josh Wade (GBR) – 20:05:06
Women
🥇 Ruth Croft (NZL) – 22:56:23
🥈 Camille Bruyas (FRA) – 23:28:48
🥉 Katharina Hartmuth (GER) – 24:16:39
For British trail running, UTMB 2025 will forever be remembered as the year when Tom Evans stood on top of the world and when Josh Wade proved the next generation is not far behind.
