Which race to choose: UTMB, CCC, TDS, OCC or MCC?
Publié le 12 juillet 2026
Eight formats are run every year around the Mont-Blanc massif, from 15 to 300 km. The choice depends on three criteria: ultra-trail experience, the UTMB Index already acquired, and the time available for specific training.
UTMB (174 km) — the historic format
The full tour of the massif, around 9,900 m of elevation gain, run over 2 to 3 days of near-continuous racing. Reserved for runners already experienced on 100-mile races, with a valid UTMB Index in the 100K or 100M category.
TDS (153 km) — the most technical
On the Traces des Ducs de Savoie explores the wildest, most demanding part of the massif, with a highly technical profile. Same index requirement as the UTMB (100K or 100M).
CCC (101 km) — the classic alternative
Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix crosses some of the most beautiful scenery in the Alps over a long but shorter format than the UTMB. Required index: 50K, 100K or 100M.
OCC (57 km) — the intermediate format
Orsières-Champex-Chamonix is the most common entry point for discovering the UTMB world without aiming for a 100-mile race. Index required from the 20K category.
MCC (40 km) — friendliness and proximity
Martigny-Combe-Chamonix is reserved for volunteers, partners and local residents. The most accessible format in the program, oriented toward enjoyment rather than performance.
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FAQ
Which UTMB race should I choose for a first ultra-trail?
The OCC (57 km, 3,500 m D+) is the most recommended intermediate format for discovering the UTMB world without aiming straight for a 100-mile race. The MCC (40 km) is even more accessible but reserved for volunteers, partners and local residents.
Which is the hardest UTMB race?
The PTL (Petite Trotte à Léon), 300 km and around 25,000 m of elevation gain, run in teams of 2 or 3, outside the UTMB World Series rankings. Among the individually ranked races, the TDS (153 km, 9,000 m D+) is considered the most technical and demanding.
What is the difference between the CCC and the OCC?
The CCC (Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix, 101 km, 6,050 m D+) is a long, demanding format. The OCC (Orsières-Champex-Chamonix, 57 km, 3,500 m D+) shares part of the same route but over roughly half the distance — a good compromise for a first big format.
Do I need the same points to enter the UTMB and the CCC?
No. The UTMB Index required depends on the targeted category: 100K/100M category for the UTMB and the TDS, 50K/100K/100M for the CCC, and from 20K for the OCC. The longer the race, the higher the required index.