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Elite Trail Runner

Gian is an elite trail runner from eastern Switzerland, specializing in ultra-distance events and self-supported mountain projects. Raised in a remote alpine village at 1700m above sea level, he grew up immersed in the outdoors, developing an early love for movement in nature. His active childhood, combined with altitude and year-round outdoor activity, laid the foundation for his fast progression in endurance sports.   Before running, Gian excelled in ice hockey and freeskiing, gaining experience in professional athletics and training science. However, a world trip with his girlfriend changed the course of his life. A spontaneous entry into a trail race in Canada unlocked a fascination for endurance challenges, which led him to pursue running full-time. Soon after, he completed a self-supported crossing of the Swiss Alps - 700km and 33,000m+ in elevation - solidifying his belief in his potential for ultra-endurance feats.   Gian quickly rose through the ranks, winning his first 100km race and securing a podium finish at the renowned Lavaredo Ultra Trail. Known for excelling in technical, mountainous terrain, he balances strategy, science, and creativity in his approach. Despite facing a significant injury, Gian has returned stronger than ever in 2024, showing his versatility by competing at elite levels in distances from 15km to 100km.   With a deep passion for the sport, Gian is committed to exploring what the human body is capable of, always striving for peak performance. His journey is far from over, with ambitious goals like winning the World Championships and UTMB on the horizon. Through authenticity, hard work, and a genuine connection with his audience, Gian inspires others to pursue their own endurance challenges.

Achievements

2024 - 14th UTMB Mont-Blanc ETC
2024 - 17th Marathon du Mont-Blanc
2024 - 14th place at Zegama Aizkorri
2024 - 17th Skyrace des Matheysins
2024 - 7th Trail Acantilados del Norte 29K
2024 - 1st Trail de la Sainte Baume La Skybaume
2023 - 3rd Eiger Ultra-Trail E35
2023 - 2nd Bernina Ultraks Steinbock Trail
2023 - 2nd Scuol Trail Enziana Trail
2023 - 3rd Ultra Trail Snowdonia by UTMB ERYRI 25K 
2022 - 2nd Lavaredo Ultra Trail 120K
2021 - 1st Swiss Alps 100
2021 - 1st Engadin Ultra Trail EUT 102
2020 - 3rd Arosa Trailrun AT46
2020 - Run across Switzerland (Samnaun to Geneva):
700km with 30,000m+ elevation in under 12 days.

Goals

2025 - Win the World Championships (long-distance)
2026 - Win UTMB CCC
2027 - Win UTMB
 
Far future - Take on larger projects like breaking the record for crossing the Via Alpina.

Approach

All or nothing, with a single-minded focus on achieving ambitious goals while balancing calculated strategies rooted in training science. I thrive in extreme conditions, both mentally and physically, pushing limits through creative, unconventional challenges. This includes self-supported ultra-distance projects that test not just physical endurance but mental resilience and durability.
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I’m known for being a bit "crazy" in the best sense - creative, experimental, and fully committed to what I do. My contradiction, between rational strategy and extreme physical challenges, fuel my success. While I’m seen as pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, everything I do is rooted in knowledge, preparation, and passion for the sport.

Work with Gian

As an elite trail runner and adventurer, I offer brands a unique opportunity to connect with an engaged and passionate audience. My journey - from growing up in the mountains of Switzerland to competing in top international ultra-endurance races - reflects authenticity, performance, and a deep connection to nature.

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