Petter Restorp, winner of the 2023 S1 Ultra, ITRA 834, is not only an elite trail runner, but also a traveller who loves to discover new places through running. Originally from Sweden and now living in Chamonix, France, Petter sees La Corsa della Bora as an energy boost and a refreshing break from the winter routine. The race, which takes place in a fascinating and historical location, has been a real 'little winter adventure', which tested him not only physically but also mentally.
According to Petter, La Corsa della Bora is a great way to kick off the racing season, serving as ideal preparation for the longer events scheduled for early or late summer. The course offers a combination of terrain and conditions that makes it varied and challenging, but not exhausting, allowing runners to focus entirely on the race or to be enchanted by the breathtaking views.
But don't be fooled: La Corsa della Bora is anything but simple. From the cold of the night to the heat of the day, from the plains to the mountains, each stage requires a well-thought-out strategy and the right equipment. Here are Petter's tips for tackling this unique and exciting winter challenge.
What attracted you most about La Corsa della Bora?
I like to travel and a good way to discover a new place is on foot. If there is a race to run, that is even better. The routes are usually planned to make the most of the surroundings and the social aspect of participating in a race is great. When I discovered La Corsa della Bora, I immediately knew it would be the perfect little winter adventure. I was attracted by the location and the history of the place. Oh, and it is by no means a small challenge, but a solid test in the middle of winter. I had just recovered from a long post-Covid period and was eager to test my skills. I also found it challenging and different to run a long race outside the normal racing season. I came from my home in the mountains of Chamonix, France, where there was hardly any trail running at that time of year.
What were your feelings during the race?
Of course I started off too fast, but I couldn't help it. I moved in a controlled and efficient manner during the night. There was a cold mist on the top of the first hills, but spirits were high and I could run without hesitation. When I arrived at the Austro-Hungarian tunnel at Sveta Gora, someone had probably hurt their head in the low ceiling and there was a trail of blood, a macabre reminder of the battles of over a century ago. Later in the race, my lack of training before this race made itself felt and gave me problems. Especially on the descents, my legs didn't want to cooperate. But then I saw the sea for the first time and hopes rose again. Towards the end our route crossed the paths of the other race distances and it was good to see people again. The change from a lonely struggle to a fun, collective race was encouraging and suddenly I had the energy to run the last stretch to the finish line at a pace that felt good. At the small harbour and in the Bora village, the party was already in full swing.
What would you recommend eating during a long winter race?
Eating during long races is always a challenge and one of the most difficult pieces of the puzzle to solve. It is important to have a plan and try to follow it, but it is equally important to realise that the plan will never work completely and so have a plan B and then improvise. I usually drink my calories and take the rest in the form of gels, bars and some sweets. Towards the end of the race I prefer to drink water and rely on more gels and energy supplements at the refreshment points. For winter races it is good to have something warm. If the organisation offers soup at one of the refreshment points, make sure you don't miss it. Put on all your clothes, sit down for a few moments and enjoy. My favourite is minestrone soup with parmesan cheese and some saltine crackers or chips. If the weather is cold, it is a good idea to carry liquid in a water bag along the back of your running jacket. If you can heat it up, it will also keep your back nice and warm. The best I have found so far is Moonvalley's blackcurrant sports drink. I never get tired of it.
How do you train during the winter?
The variation in training is good. I try to do more kilometres at certain times of the year and train with more intensity at other times. More uphill training at a certain time and focus on the flat and speed at another time of the year. Everything has to fit in with plans, family situation, location, weather conditions and life in general. For me, winter is usually a good time to increase my fitness. The paths around my house are covered with a thick layer of snow. It is fun to run, but for training I turn to the roads, tracks and the treadmill. I mainly do flat running intervals and use ski touring as a complement for longer days outside.
What positive characteristics can the S1 route have for athletic preparation?
Running La Corsa della Bora is a refreshing break from the winter training routine. It is a boost! Most races take place in the summer, and I have found it to be a great reminder of the other aspects of running long races. Some of these are food and drink management, running in the dark, planning and preparation and using the right equipment and clothing.
Which races would you recommend to prepare for La Corsa della Bora and for which races can La Corsa della Bora serve as preparation?
In order to participate in La Corsa della Bora it is useful to arrive prepared having done some longer runs and races beforehand. I like to tell people that they don't have to climb the km scale by going through all the distances, but the difference here is the fact that it is winter and the weather can get pretty bad and change a lot between night and day. Try it if you feel prepared, but even better is to do a shorter winter race around the marathon distance plus a summer race of 80 to 100 km.
La Corsa della Bora is excellent preparation for any of the longer races at the beginning of the season.
What equipment is a must-have for winter running?
The Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX is the best shoe for winter running. Integrated gaiter, waterproof, good grip and very comfortable.
The headlamp Silva Trail Speed 5X has a superior light and the possibility of keeping the battery warm in a pocket with an extension cable. A good combination of high brightness and battery life.