The three-time winner of the UTMB is now fully committed to thinking about the environment. The Jura native no longer flies, is involved in Kilian Jornet's association and chooses sponsors in line with his principles.
What world-class athlete can afford not to fly these days? While more and more professional athletes are taking environmental issues into account in their communications at least, very few are giving up the ease (and necessity for most) of air travel. But that's exactly what Xavier Thévenard, three-time winner of the UTMB and, along with François D'Haene, considered one of France's top two trail runners, has pledged to do. In 2020, the Jurassien announced his decision to stop taking long-haul flights. "It's not conceivable to say to myself that I'm going to fly 15,000 kilometers to run on the other side of the planet and do a 170-kilometer trail and come back," explains the man who has already won every UTMB race (UTMB, CCC, TDS and OCC). "I won't be going to the USA any more since I say I won't be taking long-haul flights. And besides, we've got lots of great races in or near the Alps that I've never done before. So let's do those first. I don't need to go to the other side of the world to run. I'm having a great time here."
It is also with this in mind that Xavier Thévenard joined the Kilian Jornet Foundation. The aim is first and foremost to raise public awareness of new outdoor sports practices. Alongside the Spaniard (who has also announced his intention to limit his air travel), Xavier Thévenard helped to draw up a charter containing a list of tips to help mountain sports enthusiasts reduce their impact on the environment. "Kilian and I are a lot alike. He's a mountain and nature enthusiast like me," explains the Jura native. "Being in a natural environment is what makes us happy. That's why we have to work towards it. That's why, with his foundation, we're working on a form of carbon footprint application designed not to exceed a certain threshold each year."
The latest proof of his ecological commitment, Xavier Thévenard signed up with Swiss brand ON Running at the beginning of January, after a 10-year partnership with Asics. Although the Frenchman trains regularly in Switzerland (he lives close to the border, where he renovates an old barn with his architect partner, Amélie), it was above all because of the Zurich-based brand's ecological commitment that Thevenard signed up with them. On Running claims to dispense with virgin plastics and aims to use recycled products throughout its footwear and clothing range (by 2021, shoes will be made from half recycled materials). Last but not least, the French runner's new sponsor has also accepted his decision to stop flying. "On is supporting me in this approach," confirms Xavier Thévenard. "Currently, On and I are working together to develop 100% recyclable shoes. Today, we all know the current state of our planet, we can no longer deny it. So we all have a role to play in preserving all living beings on this planet, and enabling us to look forward to a better future. There are no small or large gestures."