Sports
The Future of Trail Running and Athlete Professionalism
In a discussion on Stemma Na Trilha, Depa and Sidney Togumi analyze the sport's maturation and the demands that go beyond the podium.
Trail running is heading toward a phase of maturity and consolidation on the global stage. In a conversation on Stemma Na Trilha, commentator Depa and coach Sidney Togumi discuss what defines a truly professional athlete and the challenges of elevating the sport.
The maturity of the sport and the coexistence of different races
The growth of trail running over the past decade points to consolidation and maturity in the coming years. For Spanish commentator and announcer Depa, the sport is moving toward a phase of productive stability—a kind of positive plateau—where a consolidated structural foundation will sustain those who make a living from the sport.
On this horizon, there will be room both for mega-events with thousands of participants, such as UTMB Chamonix, and for smaller local races of three hundred to five hundred people. Developing the ecosystem depends on meeting the fundamental needs of the community and then adding elements that expand the sport's visibility and reach.
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Professionalism beyond race results
When it comes to the professionalization of athletes, especially in emerging markets like Brazil, on-trail performance is only part of the equation. To attract and retain sponsors, runners must act professionally on all fronts before demanding major investments.
As an example of this well-rounded model, Depa points to Spanish runner Sara Alonso, champion of Zegama and third-place finisher at the OCC. Beyond her high competitive performance, the athlete stands out for her relationship with the press, attentiveness to sponsors, fan engagement, and ability to inspire the public. The return a brand seeks goes beyond trophies: it demands image building, an approachable demeanor, and a commitment to the collective growth of the sport.
The role of coaching standards in the Brazilian scene
In the view of coach Sidney Togumi, professionalization also involves the approach of coaches in Brazil. To raise the competitive standard, coaches must set more demanding benchmarks for athletes, overcoming the fear of losing talent in a market that still has a limited pool of elite runners.
The evolution of the sport depends on a two-way street: athletes must deliver consistent value to brands and the community, while the technical and organizational structure must maintain high standards of accountability and professionalism.
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