UTMB Champion Katie Schide Kicks Off 2025 with a Blazing 10K Personal Best

(Photo: EMMANUEL DUNAND / Getty Images)

Trail running’s elite are already making waves in 2025, and none more so than Katie Schide, the reigning UTMB champion, who just shattered her 10K personal best to kick off the new year in style. Known for her dominance in ultra-distance mountain races, Schide's performance on the road demonstrates her versatility and sends a strong signal to the trail running world—particularly to her rival and trail running icon, Courtney Dauwalter.

Here’s how Katie Schide’s remarkable start to the 2025 season is setting the tone for what could be an exciting year in trail running.

From the Mountains to the Road

Katie Schide’s victory at the 2022 UTMB (Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc) established her as one of the world’s premier trail runners. Tackling the grueling 106-mile course with over 10,000 meters of climbing through the Mont Blanc massif, Schide’s win was a masterclass in endurance and mountain running prowess. But now, she’s proving that her talents extend far beyond the trails.

In a local 10K road race, Schide smashed her personal best with a stunning time of 35:28, a performance that turned heads across the running community. While her trail achievements are well-documented, this result shows a new layer to her training and racing, as she pushes herself to improve her speed over shorter distances.

What This Means for 2025

Schide’s 10K PB signals that she’s not just focused on maintaining her dominance in trail ultras, but is also working to build speed and efficiency—skills that will only enhance her trail running performances. With this strong start to the year, Schide has set the tone for what could be a thrilling 2025, as she looks to defend her UTMB crown and take on new challenges.

But this performance isn’t just about personal improvement—it’s also a message to her main rival, Courtney Dauwalter, who had a record-breaking 2023 and 2024, winning races like UTMB, Hardrock 100, and Western States 100 in jaw-dropping fashion. The showdown between Schide and Dauwalter is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated storylines in trail running for 2025.

Schide vs. Dauwalter: A Rivalry to Watch

The rivalry between Katie Schide and Courtney Dauwalter is one of the most compelling in trail running today. While both athletes have enormous respect for one another, they’ve consistently pushed each other to new heights.

• Schide’s Strengths: A meticulous planner and tactical runner, Schide excels on technical terrain and mountainous courses like UTMB. Her ability to pace herself and manage tough conditions has been the key to her success.

• Dauwalter’s Strengths: Known for her otherworldly endurance and resilience, Dauwalter has proven unbeatable in many of the toughest ultramarathons, breaking records in nearly every event she enters.

Schide’s new focus on speed will only help her narrow the gap with Dauwalter, particularly in races where faster flat sections play a critical role. Her 10K PB hints at a refined training strategy designed to give her an edge in 2025’s marquee events.

Why Road Running Matters for Trail Runners

While trail running and road running are vastly different disciplines, success on the road often translates to better trail performances. Speed and efficiency gained from shorter road races can make a significant difference in trail ultras, where pacing and turnover are key in flatter sections.

Katie Schide’s decision to focus on a 10K highlights her dedication to refining every aspect of her running. It’s a reminder that even the world’s best trail runners see the value in stepping outside their comfort zone to improve their performance.

What’s Next for Katie Schide?

With this incredible start to 2025, Katie Schide has her sights set on several major goals:

1. Defending Her UTMB Title: All eyes will be on the Mont Blanc massif in August, where Schide will aim to repeat her 2022 triumph.

2. Taking on Courtney Dauwalter: As Dauwalter has dominated many of the world’s biggest ultras, Schide will look to reclaim victories and assert herself as the top trail runner of the year.

3. Exploring New Races: Schide’s increased speed could open the door to competing in shorter ultras or events with more runnable terrain, where she can leverage her growing efficiency.

Trail Running’s Bright Future

Katie Schide’s breakout road performance is just one example of how trail runners continue to evolve and push the sport forward. As more athletes combine mountain endurance with road speed, the level of competition in ultra-trail races is reaching new heights.

For Schide, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of opportunity, growth, and fierce competition. Whether on the trails of Chamonix or in a head-to-head battle with Courtney Dauwalter, Schide is proving she’s ready to rise to the challenge and leave her mark on the sport.

Conclusion

Katie Schide’s record-breaking 10K performance is more than just a fast time—it’s a statement. By stepping outside her trail running specialty and excelling on the road, Schide is laying the groundwork for an even stronger year in 2025. Her focus on speed and versatility shows she’s prepared to go toe-to-toe with the best in the world, including Courtney Dauwalter, in what promises to be one of the most exciting seasons in trail running history.