UTAT: When and why did you start trail running ?

PAU:  I started 8 years ago when I had problems with my knee. I had torn my ligaments, after recovering from the operation I started running. Why trail running? I guess that to get in touch with yourself being in a natural environment is ideal.

UTAT: How would you describe a typical preparation for an ultra-trail, and what is your advice to recuperate?

PAU:  I’m an athlete and I train so I train on a daily basis, three to five hours a day. I’m also a coach so I prepare the programs for my clients. Recuperation is very important, I’m strict with my eating habits and I have a massage every day.

UTAT: You will participate for the 5th time at the Transgrancanaria, after three victories. What does this race represent for you?

PAU:  It’s the first race I participated a few years back, so yes, it’s special to me. I like the island and its inhabitants, to me it’s the best way to start the season.

UTAT: You will be present at the UTMB again this year after your victory last year, do you feel a particular pressure?

PAU:   No, the pressure is on those who have never won. For me it will be a pleasure to run as the defending winner.

UTAT:  Just over a month after the UTMB, UTAT will be your last race of the season. The terrain at the UTAT, and generally in the High Atlas, is different. A median altitude of 2400 m, 6 cols above 3000, one at almost 3700 m, a significant thermal amplitude, semi-autonomy, technical trails, etc. Does your approach to the UTAT differ to that of another race?

PAU:  The UTAT will be my last race of the season, I want to enjoy and finish my season in the Atlas range. I’ve never been there, so it will be a mix of new impressions: the culture, the mountains, the people and the food… I’m sure it will be a great experience!

UTAT:  The authenticity of the UTAT makes it a race of its own. You will be running in mountains quite different from what you are used to in Europe, cross villages of another age, discover another culture and much more. What is your idea about this today?

PAU:  I don’t know. I prefer to come and discover this stunning environment without any preset ideas. The best thing about this kind of events is to just come and discover.

UTAT:  What made you interested in participating ?

PAU:  I’ve never been to the Atlas range, that is the main reason for accepting the offer.

UTAT: To finish, what is your advice to our readers?

PAU: ENJOY!!