Helder’s UTMB dream : the story of an extraordinary adventure

The summer of 2025 will remain etched in Helder’s memory as the fulfillment of a dream: participating in the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), the ultimate ultra-marathon. It was a goal he had cherished for a long time, having already received several rejections. But life gave him a second chance: he was accepted, and the surprise of being able to take part moved him deeply.

The previous months had been marked by intense preparation: hours of training, long runs, mental work, and all the determination of an amateur runner ready to push his limits. However, two weeks before the race, Helder had to deal with stomach problems that threatened to compromise everything. Fortunately, these issues were partially resolved in time, and he was able to set off with peace of mind.

The 2025 UTMB was exceptional in many ways. The route crossed Italy, Switzerland, and France, offering a true tour of the Mont Blanc massif: 174 km and 9,900 m of elevation gain.

Chamonix, Friday, August 29, 5:45 p.m., the start of the great adventure!

During the race, Helder experienced some intense moments: the first night was particularly challenging, with incessant rain and snow falling on the mountain peaks, making the terrain muddy and slippery. He fell several times, without serious injury, but these difficult conditions tested his mental strength and endurance.

One of the most moving moments was at the aid stations: in Saint-Gervais and Courmayeur, his family was there to support him. These moments had a profound effect on him, giving him a burst of energy in the middle of the night. Friends also supported him, pushing him to keep going despite his fatigue.

Then, after hours of struggle, the finish line became a reality. On Sunday, August 31, around 1 p.m., after 42 long hours of racing, Helder crossed the line in Chamonix, hand in hand with his daughter, under a bright sun. The emotion was overwhelming. It was more than just a victory: it was a dream come true.

There were a few moments of delirium, and two sleepless nights during the race sometimes challenged him mentally, but happiness and pride outweighed any fatigue. Surrounded by family and friends, smiles were everywhere. 

Beyond his individual achievement, Helder’s success is also hugely important for Relaxinc. It symbolizes team spirit: perseverance, mutual support, passion, and the desire to always go that little bit further. But this adventure goes beyond the team: it inspires the entire Relaxinc community. Customers, friends, partners, those who run a lot and those who run a little, can all see proof that consistency, discipline, and the joy of moving forward can lead to unexpected heights. 

Seeing one of our own cross the finish line of the UTMB, one of the most legendary races in the world, strengthens the identity and motivation of everyone involved with Relaxinc. Helder’s story reminds us that, even in the face of obstacles, our dreams remain within reach when we move forward together, and it will continue to inspire energy and confidence throughout the community for a long time to come.

Watch the video of this adventure right here.