55 th Birthday Race Adventure -Whistler UTMB

70 km pre race with Elliot and Caitlin .

How many people remember what they did on their birthday? For me, the birthdays I truly remember are those when I did something epic or memorable. I recall my 25th birthday vividly; I participated in a mountain bike race from Squamish to Whistler called the Cheakamus Challenge. I placed 3rd among the females and won $500, which was a significant amount back then. My 40th birthday featured a surprise party, while my 50th was marked by a “50 km fun run” organized by David Marlor. For my 55th, I wanted to create another memorable experience.

While researching races for that weekend, I stumbled upon the controversial UTMB Whistler race. I found myself grappling with the decision to enter, feeling anxious about what others might think. Would the local trail community disapprove? I consulted several trusted friends, listened to podcasts, and read up on the controversy involving Gary Robbins and UTMB—neither of whom I had met or raced with before. Ultimately, I realized it was just a race. If a friend wanted to participate, I would have no judgment. You can do whatever you wish on your birthday. After all, we will all be gone a long time, and you only turn 55 once in your life. My ultra-running days are numbered, so what better way to celebrate?

I had everything planned: flying with Harbour Air from Victoria to Whistler, staying at the Whistler Athletes Centre Lodge (my favorite affordable accommodation), and visiting the Scandinavian Spa after the race (it was on my bucket list). It promised to be the perfect birthday weekend.

I flew out on September 26. The weather was overcast, and I was informed we had a 50/50 chance of reaching Whistler due to an incoming storm. Our alternative was to land in Vancouver and take a bus to Whistler. Sam, the pilot, seemed confident we could make it. Fortunately, we did! The flight was turbulent, resembling a magic carpet ride. A few times, I thought, “Is this it? Am I even going to make it to the race?” We landed on Green Lake, right beside the Nicklaus North Golf Course—what a one-hour trip! By car and ferry, it takes at least six hours. Time is money.

The shuttle driver kindly took me to the Whistler Athletes Centre in Function Junction, even though it wasn’t on his route. It was his last day, and he didn’t mind. I’ve stayed at the Whistler Athletes Centre before; I enjoy it. It’s comfortable, with friendly and welcoming staff. It has everything you need: full kitchen facilities, a quiet atmosphere, and it’s 9 km from Whistler Village, with buses running into town. Plus, there are plenty of local businesses in Function Junction, like Pure Bread, Forecast Coffee, Functional Pie Pizzeria (which offers gluten-free and vegan options), the Green Moustache organic restaurant (one of my favorites), and Home Hardware.

One of the three aid stations on the course .

### The Race(s)

The race was initially supposed to be 100 km but was changed to a 70 km event with added elevation gain to make it equivalent to the effort of a 100 km race. The 25 km race on Sunday was optional for those who chose to compete in the 70 or 50 km events. At the pre-race meeting, the organizers went over the course details and emphasized the mandatory gear, assuring us they would check bags at the start line and conduct random checks along the course (though I never had my bag checked). The event felt professional and organized, with a bit of a corporate atmosphere reminiscent of Ironman events from back in the day.

The course itself was stunning, featuring mountain peaks and alpine meadows. The trails were mostly fire roads, with some technical single-track sections sprinkled in. There was a lot of climbing—3850 meters of elevation gain—with a generous 18-hour cut-off. I used my poles throughout both the 70 km and 25 km races.

One of the more technical sections on the course ,

The highlights of the race were undoubtedly the breathtaking mountain views and the challenging course. The aid stations were fully stocked, and the volunteers were amazing. At the Roundhouse aid station, they offered “banana shooters”—a slice of banana with salt. I downed that with pickle juice; it was the perfect muscle anti-cramping concoction.

Celebrating finishing the 2 Day challenge with Laddie .

Upon finishing the 70 km race, I was greeted by Laddie Hannam, a Whistler local. We met during the Fat Dog race back in 2019 on the bus ride to the start of the 70-miler. It was a lovely surprise to see her, and we celebrated my birthday with a post-race beer alongside Elliot Brady and his partner Caitlin.

The biggest highlight was my visit to the Scandinavian Spa. I treated myself to a therapeutic post-race massage from a body worker named Julie and enjoyed the hot pools, cold plunges, sauna, and relaxing lounge with Laddie. It was heavenly and worth every penny; I even received a 20% discount for my birthday!

One low point was when my Black Diamond pack (well beyond warranty) decided to blow apart at the seams during the first climb. However, a volunteer at the Roundhouse aid station quickly repaired it with zip ties while I filled up my hydration. Thank you! Another low was a nagging knee issue; I booked an emergency physio session the day before the race with Isabelle Pasin at Peak Performance Physiotherapy in Whistler Village. I was grateful to get in on such short notice. I experienced shockwave therapy for the first time (breaking the rule of not trying something new before a race). It felt like little jackhammers on my leg. Nonetheless, the treatment provided some relief and helped me get through both races. Thanks, Isabelle!

One of the Cold Piunge pools 13 degrees Celsius .

I finished 3rd in my new age group (55-59) for the 70 km and 2nd in the 25 km the following day. I am grateful to have completed both races and had such a great experience. I don’t take for granted the ability to embark on these crazy adventures at my age. There’s no secret; consistency is key. I hope I still have a few years of ultras left in my body. I did my first marathon at 18.

I would like to thank my coach, Matt Cecil, for his guidance and outstanding coaching over the years; Holly Dickinson for the run-specific strength programs that keep my knees strong; and Andie Pask for leading Vic Fit Collective strength and mobility training with a wonderful group of ladies in my neighborhood. Mercury Rising—swimming is my nemesis, but it’s excellent active recovery from running. Ma Yoga for keeping me flexible and mobile in my old age .

As far as I’m concerned, UTMB Whistler knocked it out of the park. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Thank you for creating wonderful memories on my 55th birthday weekend in Whistler.