Aberdeen-based ultra runner Dave Thompson has completed the legendary Ultra Tour Monte Rosa (UTMR), a 104-mile mountain race through the Swiss and Italian Alps, in an incredible 45 hours and 12 minutes — all in support of Denis Law Legacy Trust, a children’s charity initiative providing free weekly sports and creative activity sessions for young people across Aberdeen City.
Dave, who is aiming to raise £2,000 for new sports equipment for the sessions, has already raised £1,600. His efforts were backed by his employer, RMI, who generously donated £500. RMI provides medical and risk management services to the global offshore energy industry and is committed to supporting local communities around the world.
The UTMR, founded by world-renowned ultra runner Lizzy Hawker — herself, a five-time winner of the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc — is one of the most demanding races in the world.
Dave’s journey took him from Grächen to Saas-Fee, Switzerland, climbing a staggering 33,000 feet and navigating glacier fields, technical trails, and even a severe thunderstorm that forced organisers to shorten the course by nine miles due to a rockfall.
Despite a series of injuries during training — including a bruised rib, a rolled ankle, and a suspected fractured rib just weeks before the race — Dave persevered.
"I managed only three short training runs in the final month, but thankfully everything held up during the ultra," he said.
Photos from the event include a snapshot of Dave with Lizzy Hawker and scenes from both the UTMR and one of a Denis Law Legacy Trust Streetsport session, highlighting the connection between his personal challenge and the important cause he supports.
Mark Williams, Denis Law Legacy Trusts COO, said “Dave’s story is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and knowing the impact of what you are doing and how it will help others, we are all very proud of Dave and thank him for his continuous efforts to help young people.”