After spending years collecting Running Stone, entering qualification races and finally getting through the lottery, don’t throw it all away by getting DQ’d on race day! There are a number of ways runners can be disqualified or heavily penalised for a minor infraction whilst completing the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB). Here are the 8 most common ways to get disqualified at the UTMB. 

Please note: These infractions may also apply to other events at the UTMB Mont-Blanc including CCC, TDS, OCC, MCC and ETC though the penalties may differ. The full list of Rules are available here.

1. Running too slow (Disqualification)

The most common way to DNF (“Did Not Finish”) the UTMB is by failing to reach each of the checkpoints prior to the cutoff times. The UTMB requires all runners to finish the 171 km course in a time of 46.5 hours. There are also cutoffs at each of the major checkpoints along the way.

Not reaching cutoffs at the UTMB is technically DNFing but they will take your bib. Departing a checkpoint after the cutoff results in Disqualification in accordance with the Breach of Regulations.

2. Taking Aspirin (Disqualification)

Aspirin along with painkillers and other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) are listed as banned substances. This applies even if taken in the 24 hours prior to the event! 

If you refuse a drug test and/or found to have taken a banned substance, you’ll be disqualified and potentially banned from future events.

Don’t risk it!

3. Not carrying a Torch (Disqualification)

Remember your head torch! 

Failure to carry Mandatory Gear will result in, at minimum, a 1 hour penalty. Failure to carry equipment including head torch, drink bottles, jacket, survival blanket or smartphone will result in getting DQ’d. All other mandatory equipment will be a 1 hour penalty. 

Yep it’s a steep penalty, but not as severe as summiting the Grand Col Ferret without a jacket or warm gear!

4. Refusing gear check (Disqualification)

Refusing to get your gear checked carries the same penalty as if you were not carrying the mandatory gear in the first place. Automatic disqualification. 

Seems strange not to allow someone to check your gear though. What are you carrying that you don’t want the officials to see!?

5. Being Impolite (Disqualification)

Showing a lack of respect for others can result in disqualification. Penalties will also apply to your crew members and/or supporters! Be kind, don’t be rude. It’s a tough race but no need for the ******* bad language!

6. Not helping another runner (Disqualification)

Runners need to assist others that are in need of care. If fellow runners are in need of medical assistance, food or water and/or are in a bad way, lend a helping hand or stay with them until additional help arrives. 

This is a particularly serious one especially if the runner is facing life threatening concerns. 

7. Not complying with orders (Disqualification)

If you fail to comply with an order from the race directors, stewards, aid station volunteers, doctors or search and rescue staff, you’ll likely get DQ’d. 

Listen to the people in charge. There’s usually a good reason they’re asking you to do something. It might save your life, or more importantly, help you to get to the next checkpoint ahead of the cutoff 🙂

8. Hitchhiking mid race (Banned for life)

The most severe penalty has been allocated to those that are cheating. By using a means of transport, sharing a race-bib or other methods of cheating other runners, this will result in an immediate disqualification and lifetime ban. It sounds pretty harsh but most runners would agree it is reasonable for maintaining the integrity of the sport. 

That’s it! Follow the simple rules and get there safely. But not too slowly. And with the right gear. Without taking banned substances. And without being rude. With your head torch 😉