GRP Run: Québec Mega Trail 2025 Race Report
by Britta Clark – 2nd Place, Women’s 80 km
Québec Mega Trail was my main tune-up race ahead of UTMB coming up in August. I chose the 80 km distance for its significant elevation gain and because it fit well in my training schedule. This year’s race also served as the Canadian Long Trail Championship, so the field was strong.
The day was warm and humid, conditions that usually challenge me. When we started at 5 a.m., I worried it would be a tough one. The elite women went out fast, and I watched them pull away early. But once the climbing began, I caught up to a group and was glad I’d started conservatively.
A key goal was to test my hydration and fueling plan I plan to use at UTMB. GRP nutritionist Megan had recommended a Gatorade sweat test, which helped me target 1 liter of fluid and 1000 mg of sodium per hour. That meant carrying two soft flasks and a handheld, refilling at every aid station. I ended up drinking over 20 pounds of liquid throughout the day, which felt like a lot. But it paid off! I handled the heat better than usual and was also able to take in about 75 g of carbs per hour.
At the final crewed aid station, I caught up to the first place woman, Claudine. She left the aid a few minutes ahead, and although I tried to close the gap, she held strong to the finish. I faded on the technical ‘Mestachibo’ section but held onto second place, finishing in 10:20.
Overall, I was happy with the effort. It was encouraging to run a long race without major issues and to dial in my fueling and pacing. There’s still work to do before UTMB, but this was a solid confidence boost.
One of the best parts of the weekend was sharing it with GRP teammate Mead Binhammer. Mead also had a great race as part of his build to CCC at UTMB. He said:
“I really enjoyed racing QMT 80km this year. The course was beautiful, technical, and (this year) exceptionally muddy, which made for many engaging, slow miles with occasional dramatic views of the St. Lawrence. The field was quite competitive, and I felt like I was racing for positions all day. Despite some hydration issues toward the end, I was happy to still hang on to 5th place!”
Thanks to the race organizers and volunteers for a smooth event! Time for more miles and vert before heading to Chamonix!