Virginie: How did you get to know UTAT?

Laurent: I knew UTAT through a friend who knew I was a volunteer on the MDS. The project interested me and I contacted the organization. Six months later I discovered UTAT. So I was there for the 3rd edition in 2011. Since then, I do not miss any UTAT.

Virginie: What is your role, your missions during the event?

Laurent: I’m part of the medical team, I’m a nurse. Each CP is composed of at least one doc or nurse. We are in touch with the medical CP. Medical equipment is made available to us by LCE. We ensure that each rider is able to continue the race.

Virginie: What motivates you to come to UTAT?

Laurent: UTAT allowed me to know the Moroccan High Atlas with its magnificent landscapes and to go and meet its inhabitants. Without volunteers the UTAT could not exist. It is with great pleasure that I contribute to this event.

Virginie: What do you personally like, what does your commitment bring you?

Laurent: Over the years, I have seen the UTAT grow. From a human point of view, links have been forged with guides, muleteers and volunteers. At the professional level, it is always interesting to be able to practice your profession in other circumstances.

Virginie: A memory that marked you (runners, volunteers, local …)?

Laurent: A shepherd whom I met at the top of Tizi n Tifourate (CP 7) at over 3000 m asks me why the runners need so much equipment while he needs “only his legs” to walk the trails of the High Atlas !!!

Virginie: What do you like most about UTAT?

Laurent: Very difficult to make a choice but I would say the hospitality of the Berbers, the landscapes of the High Atlas and the recognition of the runners towards the volunteers.

Virginie: What do you like the least?

Laurent: So there, without hesitation the day of departure !! After spending several days at 3000 m of altitude near the Toubkal it is very hard to return to everyday life.

Virginie: How do you see the future of UTAT?

Laurent: If the trailers realize that there is no more risk of running in the High Atlas than elsewhere, then I am certain that UTAT will become a major event in the world of trail.

Virginie: What else do you want to say?

Laurent: UTAT is not only a sporting event, it also has an economic and social dimension. Indeed, this makes it possible to work the local population (guides, muleteers, traders …). Moreover, it allows young Berbers to participate free of charge in the UTAT and thus discover new talents.