Mike Garvin shared a long and detailed report on this past weekend’s Défi De L’Ile De Montréal; Gravel? What Gravel?-

Let me rewind a bit A couple of weeks ago I decided (after some cajoling from skater friends) to try out the Defi race for the first time. In the past I had always avoided this race; its after my main competitive season, and right before off season training, so I typically just take a rest. Also, I had heard so many horror stories, bad pavement, pot holes, crappy conditions like rain, freezing temperatures, wet leaves etc. But I thought I should finally give a try.

In the last 1Km Stephane and Damien eased up and decided (apparently) that a co-operative finish would be more sporting, and the four of us crossed the finish line together.

I highly recommend this event if you are looking for an ultra-marathon to try. Unlike other events, Defi seems to have a much more laid back, inclusive and fun atmosphere about it. Just seems like a friendlier race than any of the others I’ve been too. Try it out, you’ll see