Athlete stories

Different finish lines.
The same commitment.

An outright win, a 100-mile finish or a first trail marathon: progress means something different to every runner. These are their stories.

Sandro D racing
Georgia · Ultra runner

Sandro D

100-mile finisher
  • Val d’Aran by UTMB 100-mile finisher
  • Mestia Ultra 70km

“Doing ultras is more than just physical training, it takes a complete mental shift. Claude helped me achieve exactly that before and during my first 100-miler. He didn't just give me a training plan, he changed the entire way I look at trail running. His support when it mattered most was invaluable. Incredible person and incredible coach, grateful till the end.”

Christili M racing
South Africa · Ultra runner

Christili M

100km outright winner
  • Salt Pans Ultra 100km — outright winner
  • Mac Mac 50-Miler — 4th
  • Van Gaalens Backyard Ultra — winner
  • Regular top 10 finishes

“Claude is the quiet engine behind my success. He shapes each programme around your life, your goals, and your recovery. I've become more consistent and more confident than ever before.”

Jason racing
South Africa · Trail & ultra runner

Jason

Trail podiums
  • Pass2Pass Marathon — 2nd
  • Ultra-Trail Drakensberg 62km — 8th
  • Cape Town Trail Marathon — top 10
  • Regular podium and top 10 finishes

“It has almost been a year now of having Coach Claude on my side to guide me through my trail running expedition. He has been very patient and understanding in his approach to coaching an athlete like me. We've achieved some fast times and some ridiculous goals thus far, and I believe we're still going to reach the rest of the goals set out for the following few years. I do recommend that any long-distance or ultra runner get in contact with Apex Rises Coaching if you need coaching or help to reach your distance running goals — or just want to find balance in your life. Claude has really helped me achieve my most far-fetched goals. Thanks for believing in me!”

The personal milestones

A first trail
marathon.

Structure, feedback and a goal made real.

UK / Georgia · Trail runner

Harry P

First trail marathon
  • Completed his first trail marathon distance

“Even though we're in different towns, the coaching feels very hands on. The structure is clear, the feedback is consistent, and I always know why I'm doing what I'm doing.”

What does progress mean to you?

Your finish line matters. Let’s build toward it.