Ludo Pommeret and Katie Schide Dominate a Gritty 2025 Hardrock 100

The 2025 Hardrock 100 delivered everything the ultra-trail world expects from one of the sport’s most iconic races—grit, altitude, heartbreak, and triumph. At the heart of it all, France’s Ludovic “Ludo” Pommeret successfully defended his title, while American ultra star Katie Schide shattered the women’s course record.

Pommeret Goes Back-to-Back

For the second year in a row, the 49-year-old Pommeret conquered the brutal 102.5-mile loop through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, finishing in 22:21:55—the fifth-fastest time in race history. Battling thin air, smoky conditions from nearby wildfires, and rugged terrain with over 33,000 feet of elevation gain, Pommeret executed a masterclass in pacing.

Starting conservatively on the climbs, he surged on the descents, aided by elite pacers Jim Walmsleyand Vincent Bouillard. By dawn, he had extended his lead and cruised into Silverton well under the 48-hour cutoff, earning another coveted kiss of the Hardrock finish-line rock.

The men’s podium was a French sweep: Mathieu Blanchard placed second in 23:44, followed by Germain Grangier in 24:04.

“I was worried about the smoke early on,” Pommeret said afterward, “but the final miles were magic. I even walked the last climb to take it all in.”

Schide Smashes Course Record

In the women’s race, Katie Schide delivered one of the most commanding performances in Hardrock history, crossing the finish in 25:50—the fastest counterclockwise time ever on this course. Her effort redefined what’s possible on one of the toughest 100-milers in the world, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite.

A Somber Note

The celebration was tempered by tragedy. One of the 146 starters, 60-year-old Elaine Stypula, passed away early in the race. The trail community paused to honor her memory, a reminder of both the beauty and the inherent risk of this extreme pursuit.

Why This Race Matters

• Age is just a number: At nearly 50, Pommeret continues to perform at the highest level, adding another major title to a résumé that includes victories at UTMB (2016) and Diagonale des Fous (2021).

• Trail’s toughest test: With extreme elevation, altitude averaging over 11,000 feet, and no room for error, Hardrock remains a crucible for the toughest athletes on Earth.

• Global competition: With a French men’s podium and an American record-breaker, the international caliber of this year’s race underscored its global significance.

2025 Hardrock 100 Key Results

With record-breaking performances and powerful moments of perseverance, the 2025 Hardrock 100 once again proved why it’s one of the most respected races in the world of ultrarunning.

posted Sunday July 13th
by Boris Baron