LOUISE SERBAN-PENHOAT, Elite French trail runner and 2025 UTMB® Live commentator
A new chapter, a new role. Louise Serban-Penhoat reflects on her new adventure as UTMB Live commentator, the importance of broadcasting trail running, and the evolution of women’s participation in the sport....
You’ve built a reputation as a high-level trail runner. What inspired you to step away from the trails and into the commentary booth this season? What drew you to the UTMB Live project?
This year has been quite unusual. I suffered an injury early in the season, which turned everything upside down. Recovery would take at least six months, possibly up to a year. Though rehab has been demanding, I found myself with more time. I decided to stay in Annecy, and when the opportunity to join UTMB Live arose, it felt like the perfect chance to experience the events and the racing from a different perspective – from the inside. It was a unique opportunity — something to embrace and share. Working alongside Yoann (Jadaud) and Margaux (Le Map) was a fantastic experience. Hosting an 11-hour live show really pushed me out of my comfort zone. It was a genuine challenge — and a rewarding one.
What does your role as a live commentator involve? How do you prepare for an event like Chianti Ultra Trail? How do you bring the race to life for viewers?
For Chianti Ultra Trail we shared responsibilities, although we all had our roles. Yoann (Jadaud), with his anchor experience, naturally led the broadcast — keeping the energy up and steering the conversation. My role was more focused on offering an athlete’s perspective — conveying how runners might be feeling during key moments, their emotional state, their condition as the race evolved, and insights into those I knew personally. The idea was to give an insider’s view. In preparation, Margaux (Le Map) and I spent time researching the line-up, identifying favourites and outsiders, studying the course and its challenges, and understanding each athlete’s form and training. We also explored the local area — the countryside, the town, the region — to enrich quieter moments of the broadcast with engaging cultural stories.
Why do you believe live trail race coverage is important? How has UTMB Live contributed to the sport’s media evolution, and what impact does this have on the trail community and the development of the discipline?
Live broadcasting is essential for showing the depth and unpredictability of trail running. There’s a misconception that these races are long and uneventful, or that results are decided early on. In reality, anything can happen — cramps, falls, nutrition issues. Nothing is guaranteed until the finish line. Live coverage increases visibility, inspires newcomers to have a go, and builds a deeper engagement with the sport. The diversity of commentators offering varied insights and voices enhances the viewing experience. Increased media coverage is key to growing the sport’s appeal.
UTMB Live prioritises gender-equal coverage. From your experience, how has women’s trail running progressed in recent years? Is that shift reflected in your role as a commentator?
It’s a crucial topic. At a recent conference, we learned that women represent just 33% of trail entries. Through live broadcasts we can send powerful messages and demonstrate that women can sign up, take on challenges, and push their limits. Progress may be gradual, but it’s happening and must be sustained. It’s vital to spotlight female athletes — showcasing the intensity of the competition, their remarkable results, their impressive speed. By celebrating their achievements, we can inspire more women to step onto the trail.
You made your commentary debut at Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB and more big events lie ahead this season. What excites you most about this new role? Any moments you’re looking forward to behind the mic?
Chianti Ultra Trail by UTMB as a debut was unforgettable — it was incredible to kick-off with a race that brought together the last three UTMB winners. This first event will leave a lasting impression on me — the women’s race was especially dramatic, with emotional finishes that I’ll never forget. Those are the moments I hope to relive — intense moments, emotional highs, and the joy of sharing it all with the other commentators. Being part of the team with Margaux and Yoann was a true pleasure, and I can’t wait for more! I’m incredibly grateful for this unforgettable experience — a big thank you!
