French Mountaineer Breaks Mont Blanc Speed Record in Historic Feat
French mountaineer Benjamin Védrines has set a new speed record for ascending and descending Mont Blanc, marking a historic achievement in alpine sports. On May 25, 2025, Védrines completed the round trip from Chamonix to the summit and back in an astonishing 4 hours, 54 minutes, and 41 seconds, surpassing the previous record set by Spanish ultra-runner Kilian Jornet in 2013. His feat has been hailed as a groundbreaking moment in high-altitude endurance climbing.
Védrines, known for his rapid alpine-style ascents, began his climb just before 9:00 AM, navigating treacherous conditions and extreme altitude. Unlike Jornet, who ran to the summit, Védrines combined trail running and skiing, adapting to the mountain’s shifting terrain. His approach allowed him to maintain speed while managing the physical toll of the ascent. Despite battling high winds, a twisted ankle, and impaired vision, he pushed through to secure the record.
The climb followed the Col de la Brenva route, which, while longer than traditional paths, was in optimal condition for the attempt. Védrines’ strategy involved precise pacing and technical expertise, ensuring efficiency in both ascent and descent. His achievement has sparked discussions about the evolving techniques in speed mountaineering and the potential for even faster times in the future.
Following his record-breaking climb, Védrines expressed disbelief at his own accomplishment, stating that he had initially lacked the confidence to attempt the feat. His success has drawn praise from the mountaineering community, including Jornet himself, who congratulated him on social media. Védrines’ previous achievements, including a record-setting ascent of K2, further solidify his reputation as one of the most formidable climbers of his generation.
The significance of this record extends beyond personal achievement, highlighting the growing popularity of speed climbing and endurance challenges in the mountaineering world. Védrines’ accomplishment has inspired discussions about the limits of human endurance and the future of high-altitude sports. Experts believe that with further advancements in technique and training, even faster times may be possible in the coming years.
As Védrines takes time to recover from his grueling climb, he has hinted at future challenges that could push the boundaries of speed mountaineering even further. His Mont Blanc record stands as a testament to skill, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of extreme sports.