The fourth edition of the British Ski Mountaineering Championships was held in France on 15 February as part of the Grand Trace race in the Devoluy Alps. Ben Bardsley reports from the race.

In the last couple of days preceding this year’s event, the snow fell in biblical quantities. In fact, with 24 hours to go, the organisers had been instructed by the Community Chiefs to abandon the race. However, carefully considered contingency arrangements were presented to the authorities and a safe route agreed upon. That was a BIG relief for me!

I have done this race twice before and was really excited when “Head Honcho” (and fellow ski racer) Florent Besses approached me to see if I would consider holding the British Championships there. It’s a great race with a tremendous vibe.

So on Sunday 15 February the hardy Brits who had braved the elements to make the start, lined up against some of France’s best ski mountaineers.

The course was varied and interesting with some open powder slopes and tight tree skiing to negotiate. With 1900m height elevation gain, there was plenty of time for the racers to battle out their positions.

It was good to see some new names on the scene – two of whom managed to podium – in this respect well done Ben Bradford and Rozzi Martin.

Many thanks to Lyon Outdoor and La Sportiva. Lyon provided a beanie for every racer and were really helpful with promotion of the event. 

Thanks to The BMC who have provided perpetual trophies and prizes.

Thanks to Florent Besses, Xavier Nopre and all the “La Grande Trace” team whose many hours of work to put on this event were very gratefully received.

The band “Monik et Les Sex Pistons” greeted racers at the finish line to catchy upbeat funky tunes. … always a pleasure!

2015 British Ski Mountaineering Championships
in association with La Sportiva: Results

Men’s
1st Ben Bardsley
2nd Ben Bradford
3rd Misha Gopaul

Women’s
1st Ursula Moore
2nd Janine Frost
3rd Rozzi Martin

For full results and more information about La Grande Trace, visit the race website

2016 British Ski Mountaineering Championships
Next year’s race may well be at the end of January hosted by “La Croix de Chamrousse” near Grenoble. I will release further details as they become available.

About the Devoluy Alps
The Devoluy Alps lie just to the East of Gap, and are well worth a visit in winter or summer. The lift skiing, ski touring, rock climbing and hiking in this area are all of the highest calibre.
www.ledevoluy.com

Watch a video of the Le Grand Trace 2015 race below.

Grande Trace 2015 from Altitude Films on Vimeo.

Video from the World Championships in Verbier

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