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Matthieu Bonne Named 2024 Worldwide UltraRunner of the Year

Matthieu Bonne has been named the men’s 2024 World UltraRunner of the Year by USA's well-known Ultra Running Magazine. A well-deserved accolade recognizing his extraordinary accomplishments in the realm of ultra-endurance running. Bonne’s achievements over the past year have cemented his place among the legends of the sport, demonstrating both his physical prowess and unwavering determination.

A Record-Breaking Year

Bonne’s most remarkable feat came at the GOMU-EMU six-day race in Balatonfüred, Hungary, where he shattered a nearly two-decade-old world record. Covering an astounding 1045.519 kilometers (649.655 miles) over six days, he surpassed the legendary Yiannis Kouros’s 2005 mark, a record once thought untouchable. This performance not only highlights Bonne’s endurance but also his strategic and mental resilience, traits that define the elite ultrarunning echelon.

Earlier in the year, Bonne etched his name in Belgian ultrarunning history at Trasna Na Uaireanta in Ireland by setting a national 24-hour record. He ran an impressive 275.25 kilometers (171.03 miles) within a single day, showcasing his exceptional ability to sustain speed over long distances.

A Multi-Disciplinary Athlete

In addition to his dominance in ultrarunning, Bonne is a record-setting endurance cyclist and open-water swimmer. Hailing from Bredene on the Belgian coast, he embodies the spirit of versatility and ambition, continually pushing the boundaries of human performance across various disciplines.

Current Training and Upcoming Challenges

Matthieu Bonne is currently in Kenya, where he is undergoing high-altitude training to further enhance his endurance and strength. This rigorous preparation is part of his ambitious plans for 2025.

From February 21 to February 23, Bonne will attempt to break the World Record for the 48-hour run in Taipei, Taiwan. This monumental challenge is expected to test his limits yet again, as he aims to etch another historic performance in the annals of ultrarunning.

Later this year, Bonne’s sights are set on tackling the 48-hour World Records in both swimming and cycling. These multi-disciplinary endeavors will further underscore his status as one of the most versatile and determined endurance athletes of our time. Details about these attempts, along with potential new challenges, will be announced in the coming months.

A Legacy in the Making

Matthieu Bonne’s relentless pursuit of greatness is an inspiration to athletes worldwide. His ability to push through physical and mental barriers resonates beyond sports, embodying the universal values of perseverance and ambition. As he continues to embark on new challenges, fans and followers eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his extraordinary journey.

Stay tuned for updates on Bonne’s upcoming records and challenges. Whether running, swimming, or cycling, Matthieu Bonne proves that limits are meant to be broken.

Source: Ultra Running Magazine