Imagine coming from one of the world’s flattest countries, where the highest point is barely over 100 meters, and then conquering the pinnacle of ultra-running.
In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we share the awe-inspiring story of Fatema Husain, the first Bahraini national, and first GCC national woman to complete the legendary UTMB (Ultra-Trail Du Mont Blanc).
UTMB is widely considered the hardest ultramarathon in the world: a grueling 171 km trail race with an astounding 10,000m of elevation, all to be completed within a tight 46 hours and 30 minutes. In 2023, the year which Fatema competed, the race started September 1st and traversed the iconic Tour Du Mont Blanc hiking path across France, Italy & Switzerland, with the majestic Mont Blanc as its breathtaking backdrop.
What makes Fatema’s achievement even more remarkable is her beginning: she once didn’t consider herself a runner and took a year and a half just to run 3 km on a treadmill!. Her journey from minimal physical activity to completing this ultimate endurance challenge is a testament to sheer determination.
In this powerful episode, published on September 25th, 2023, we chat with Fatema about:
- Her decade-long journey building endurance, from running to ultra-running,
- Her cycling career – she’s also a Bahraini National cycling champion,
- A day-by-day account of the UTMB race, including crucial support, battling cut-off times, and making peace with pain,
- The emotional moment of carrying the Bahraini flag across the UTMB finish line for the very first time, and
- Fatema is determination embodied, and her story will undoubtedly inspire you to move your own mountains.
🎧 Listen to the episode now
📸 Follow Fatema Husain on Instagram: @FateMoves
Learn more about UTMB
Read about her historic achievement: Check out the Bahrain News Agency article.
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