José Virgínio de Morais: Trail Running, Evolution, and Olympic Dream

The Birth of JVM Trail Run and the Essence of a Teacher

Despite his athletic success, José Virgínio's life was also shaped by his education and career vision. From office boy to substitute teacher, he recounts a decisive moment when his first coach, Jair Rosset, encouraged him to pursue a Physical Education degree, reminding him that a profession lasts a lifetime, unlike an athletic career. 'You won't be an athlete for the rest of your life. But your profession is for life,' was the phrase that stuck with him.

JVM Trail Run was born in 2010, the result of an unusual opportunity. A couple of students, Betânia and Antônio Farroco, impressed by his knowledge and passion for trail running, 'gifted' him the coaching service, handling the bureaucratic aspects of its founding. The name, which combines his initials (José Virgínio de Morais) with 'Mountain,' solidified his brand. Today, JVM serves over 160 students in Brazil and worldwide, and José Virgínio is proud to have fostered the growth of the sport, inspiring many to open their own coaching services.

In 2023, José Virgínio launched the book 'The Call of the Mountain', which narrates his life and career, in addition to sharing valuable lessons. The book, available on Amazon and directly through his Instagram (@virginiojvm), is, according to him, 'a book for everyone, not just for athletes,' conveying the message that life, much like the mountain, offers calls and opportunities that need to be recognized.

The Future of Trail Running: Professionalization and the Olympic Dream

José Virgínio has a clear vision for the future of trail running: 'It's not just a fad anymore. Trail running is here to stay.' He notes the growing interest from major brands like North Face and Columbia, which signifies the sport's maturation and professionalization. For him, the focus is not just on selling products, but on genuine connection and investment in the sport, with races helping to strengthen brands and vice-versa.

One of the most exciting topics is the possibility of trail running being included in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. Sidney Togumi asks what distance José Virgínio would choose if he had the power to decide. His answer: a 20 km (short trail) race. This choice aims to ensure television appeal and public understanding, as spectators would hardly follow long-distance races on a 100% technical course. He argues that, just as mountain biking adapted for the Olympics, trail running will also need a format that balances the essence of the sport with the demands of a global event.

For Brazil to excel in this scenario, José Virgínio highlights the need for more structured planning from federations, with clearer calendars and athlete support. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance for Brazilian athletes to adopt training and competition seasons, drawing inspiration from European schools that don't race all year round but intersperse with other disciplines to optimize performance and prevent burnout. 'You can't just go hard all year,' he states, stressing that to be among the world's best, a well-defined career strategy is essential.

Respecting the Mountain and the Essence of Trail Running

Concluding the chat, José Virgínio shares his philosophy on respect for the mountain and the uniqueness of trail running. He contrasts the asphalt culture, where it's common to discard water cups during races, with trail running, where 'you have to carry' your trash with you. He also addresses the patience required on technical trails, especially on single tracks where a line of runners is inevitable. 'If you want to fly through the trail, man, get there first,' he advises.

The 'King of the Mountain' underscores the importance of educating beginners, who are often frustrated by a slower pace on the trail compared to asphalt. It's crucial to understand that walking and jogging are part of the trail context, and that preparation for descending and ascending comes from specific training. 'Respect where you are entering,' José Virgínio concludes, extending the advice not only to the mountain but to all who wish to venture into and remain in the fascinating world of trail running.

The conversation with José Virgínio de Morais is a testament to the passion, dedication, and vision of an athlete who not only won titles but also dedicated his life to inspiring and shaping the future of a sport that 'is here to stay.' His legacy, marked by professionalism and deep respect for nature, continues to guide the trail running community in Brazil.