At 2 am on the 23rd of August 2024, at a quaint white church in Chamonix, a daunting challenge is brewing. 

The race begins in silence but with palpable nervous energy. The square empties within seconds as runners disappear into the night. 

The Speed Project's first European adventure has begun. 

The layout is simple, teams need to run 450km from Chamonix to Marseille in the shortest time possible.  The beauty of this race is that there are no predefined rules, routes, or checkpoints. Teams are given the freedom to determine their own paths and set their own pace, with the journey taking them across diverse and often treacherous terrains—from steep, mountainous trails to smooth but grueling paved roads. Each step introduces new physical and logistical challenges, testing the strength, strategy, and endurance of every participant.

This race is not merely a test of physical ability, but a comprehensive examination of mental resilience. Pain, fatigue, and exhaustion are constants, woven into the fabric of the experience. With no fixed course and minimal guidance, teams face chaotic and unpredictable conditions along the way—getting lost in unfamiliar landscapes, navigating interactions with local police, and managing the risks of hazardous roads. Rest is an elusive luxury, deemed "optional" by the race culture but often ends up sacrificed. The unrelenting pace demands that participants push past their limits, facing not only the physical terrain but also the psychological toll of prolonged exertion and sleep deprivation.

Yet, The Speed Project is not defined by competition. It transcends the conventional concept of a race, focusing instead on the journey itself. The true essence of this event lies in the determination and unity forged through shared adversity. As participants traverse rugged landscapes and confront their own physical and mental boundaries, they are drawn into a deeper reflection on their internal battles. The race becomes a metaphor for life’s broader challenges, urging runners to embrace the pain as temporary and keep their eyes on the transformative experience, rather than just the finish line.

This race strips running down to its rawest form, not driven by the need for accolades, but by the pursuit of personal growth, teamwork, and shared achievement. The Speed Project encourages participants to form bonds, support one another, and find strength in unity. Ultimately, it’s not about who finishes first, but how each team confronts their own obstacles and emerges stronger, both individually and collectively, by the end of the journey.

At PACE, we caught up with Edenlys (@dontwishmewell_) and Sandrine (@sheisgoretex), part of the team Sisterhood. For them, The race began in Chamonix with eight runners, four support crew members, and an emotional support dog, Moon.

Reflecting on the moments leading up to the race, Sandrine shared her thoughts on the intense anticipation that everyone felt. She commented on the mix of emotions running through her, saying, "It’s a weird feeling; you're both excited and emotional at the same time. Showing up at 2 AM, you realise how insane it is, what we're about to do."

That sense of unpredictability carried through the race, as Edenlys explained the team's strategic approach: “We segmented the race into 5-10 km sections, with one team resting and the other running. In the mountains, it was impossible to swap runners, so we had to push through.” “At some point, we were so tired, swapping runners every 500 metres just to keep going.”

When it finally came to crossing the finish line, Edenlys reflected on the emotional and physical journey: “You witness the wonder of nature, going from mountains to the sea, and realise what your body is capable of.” But with the post-race high came a bittersweet reality, as Sandrine admitted, “I was happy and proud, but also sad because once you’ve done TSP, you’re left chasing another experience like this.”

Reflecting on the camaraderie and collective spirit of The Speed Project, Sandrine described the experience as more than just a race: “It’s a cult. We’re all in this together, passing the flame from team captain to runner, and becoming part of something bigger.” This sense of unity transcended the physical challenge, binding the team through shared adversity and triumph.

Edenlys expanded on the profound sense of accomplishment that came with completing the race, stating, “Now, anything else in life seems small in comparison. Running is just a metaphor for how strong you truly are.” For the runners, the journey was as much about personal growth as it was about reaching the finish line.

What Makes The Speed Project So Special?

The Speed Project stands out for its unique ability to merge personal challenges with a collective experience, fostering deep connections among runners. Each participant faces their struggles, yet the shared journey cultivates a profound sense of unity that transcends individual efforts. This interconnectedness underscores the power of teamwork and mutual support in overcoming obstacles, creating an environment where everyone uplifts one another.

Furthermore, The Speed Project embodies a rebellious and exploratory ethos, celebrating the freedom of movement and the exhilaration of adventure. It encourages runners to break free from conventional boundaries and embrace the raw essence of running. This spirit of rebellion invites participants to venture into uncharted territories, both physically and mentally, as they navigate the race.

Importantly, TSP emphasises the journey over the destination. By prioritising teamwork and self-discovery, the experience becomes richer, allowing runners to reflect on their personal growth and the relationships forged along the way. 

Ultimately, it is the shared moments and invaluable lessons learned throughout the race that define the true essence of this extraordinary adventure.

With the evolution of running culture becoming increasingly visible online, events like The Speed Project provide a valuable opportunity to transform this online community into real-world experiences, bringing participants together in person.

The event serves as a testament to the profound impact that running can have on individuals and communities alike. As runners embark on their journeys, they discover the power of teamwork, the thrill of exploration, and the importance of the shared experience. Ultimately, it is the spirit of adventure and the bonds formed through challenges that define the essence of The Speed Project, leaving a lasting legacy that resonates far beyond the finish line.