Kilian jornet’s legendary return to the western states: analysing an extraordinary performance

Fourteen years after his first victory, Kilian Jornet made his grand return to the mythical Western States 100 in June 2025. The Spaniard, now aged 37, finished on the third step of the podium in 14h19min, in extreme heat conditions that tested even the most seasoned veterans. This return marks a new chapter in the career of a man who remains one of the most iconic figures in global ultra-trail.

HOW DID KILIAN JORNET PREPARE FOR HIS RETURN TO THE WESTERN STATES AFTER A 14-YEAR ABSENCE?

For his return to the Californian trails, Kilian Jornet adopted a different approach from the one that led him to victory in 2011. Back then, the 23-year-old runner surprised the world by winning the race with disconcerting ease. Today, with a career rich in exploits across all terrains and altitudes, the Catalan athlete implemented specific preparation to face California’s formidable heat.

Thermal preparation was a central element of his training. Accustomed to the snowy peaks and cool temperatures of the European mountains, Jornet had to adapt his body to the sweltering conditions that characterise the Western States. Temperatures can exceed 40°C in the canyons, transforming the race into a true physiological challenge where wearing performance sunglasses and managing hydration become survival factors.

The NNormal team, which now accompanies Kilian in his projects, played a decisive role in this preparation. Together, they developed progressive acclimatisation protocols and optimised nutritional strategies to manage effort in the heat. This collective approach reflects the evolution of the sport and the way elite athletes now tackle the challenges of ultra-trail.

WHAT RACE STRATEGY DID KILIAN JORNET ADOPT AGAINST CALEB OLSON AND CHRIS MYERS?

From the start at Squaw Valley, Kilian Jornet opted for a measured and thoughtful race strategy. Unlike his usual style, often characterised by fast starts and calculated risks, the Spaniard chose to remain behind the lead group during the early miles. This approach testifies to his maturity and the experience accumulated over the years.

Passing Robinson Flat at mile 30, Jornet was in fifth position, letting Caleb Olson and Chris Myers set the pace at the front. This stalking position allowed him to manage his effort while keeping an eye on his main rivals. The crushing midday heat quickly took its toll on the pack, notably with the withdrawal of Vincent Bouillard, one of the French favourites.

It was in the second half of the race that Kilian progressively moved up the rankings. His legendary ability to maintain a constant pace over long distances allowed him to overtake several competitors weakened by the extreme conditions. In the end, only Caleb Olson—the winner in 14h 11min 25s with the second-best time in history—and Chris Myers resisted his comeback.

WHAT DIFFERENTIATES THE KILIAN JORNET OF 2025 FROM THE ONE OF 2011?

Between his 2011 victory and his 2025 podium, Kilian Jornet has lived a thousand sporting lives. From the summits of Everest to records on trails worldwide, including the Winter Olympics, the Catalan athlete has pushed the boundaries of the possible in multiple disciplines. This wealth of experience has profoundly transformed his approach to racing.

The Jornet of 2025 is a more complete athlete, but also one more aware of his limits. As a father, he has learned to balance his passion for performance with a fulfilling personal life. This evolution is reflected in his way of running: less impulsive, more strategic, but still animated by the flame that has characterised him since his beginnings.

His management of effort at the Western States perfectly illustrates this maturity. Where the young Kilian might have tried to follow the frantic pace set by Olson, the veteran preferred to run by feel, accepting to let his opponents go to better return in the final stages. This tactical wisdom, combined with his still exceptional physical qualities, makes him a formidable competitor over all distances.

WHAT LESSONS CAN BE DRAWN FROM THIS PERFORMANCE FOR THE FUTURE OF ULTRA-TRAIL?

Kilian Jornet’s third place at the 2025 Western States offers several valuable lessons for understanding the evolution of modern ultra-trail. First, it confirms that the global level of the discipline continues to rise year after year. The fact that an athlete of Jornet’s calibre can "only" reach the third step of the podium speaks to the exceptional density of the field.

This race also highlights the increasing importance of specific preparation. The unique conditions of each event, whether it be Californian heat, the altitude of Alpine races, or the technicality of the courses, require precise adaptations. The athletes who succeed are those who manage to optimise every aspect of their preparation, from the choice of their speed shades to their nutritional strategy, based on the specific challenges they will encounter.

Finally, Jornet’s performance reminds us that longevity at the highest level is possible in ultra-trail. At 37, he remains capable of rivaling younger runners in the most demanding races on the circuit. This durability is explained by a global approach to training, integrating:

• Variety in sporting practices to avoid premature wear;
• Particular attention paid to recovery and injury prevention;
• A balance between sporting and personal life;
• A capacity to reinvent himself and find new sources of motivation.

For ultra-trail enthusiasts dreaming of following in Kilian Jornet's footsteps, this 2025 Western States demonstrates that beyond raw talent, it is the capacity for adaptation and race intelligence that make the difference in the most prestigious endurance events. Whether you are aiming for your first ultra or looking to improve your performance, Jornet’s example reminds us that every race is a new adventure, with its unique challenges and precious lessons.