The Freetrail Podcast with Dylan Bowman

Toni McCann | CCC Pre-Race Interview

12 snips
Aug 24, 2025
Toni McCann, a South African trail runner and 2024 CCC winner, shares her insights ahead of the 2025 Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc. Living in Annecy, she brings local knowledge to the race, highlighting its competitive nature. Toni discusses the pressure of being a favorite, her strategies for tackling tough course sections, and the mental resilience needed for success. She also reflects on her journey, including her previous strong finishes at OCC, showcasing her calm confidence as she prepares for this challenging event.
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ANECDOTE

How UTMB Sparked Her Career

  • Toni McCann first heard about UTMB in 2018 and it sparked her passion for trail running.
  • She has now attended five years in a row and calls UTMB a staple that grew her career rapidly.
INSIGHT

Winning Doesn’t Erase Self-Doubt

  • Toni admits to imposter syndrome despite multiple wins and feeling undeserving at times.
  • She reminds herself that she earned her results and that recognition helps combat self-doubt.
ADVICE

Return To Improve, Not Just Repeat

  • Do return to a race to fix specific weaknesses rather than to chase novelty.
  • Toni came back to CCC aiming to shave minutes and run with more joy after an imperfect winning day.
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