Sylvain Bazin is an ultra trail runner and adventurer who is searching for the meaning of life. His career has taken him to some of the most remote and challenging trails in the world, and his passion for running is closely intertwined with his search for freedom, spirituality and connection. In his 35 years, Bazin has already accomplished feats that many can only dream of, but his journey is far from over.
The Early Years and Passion for Running
Bazin began running at a very young age, participating in competitions by the age of 11. His early passion for athletics led him to explore various running disciplines, but it was long-distance running that truly captured his interest. By the time he was 21, Bazin had already begun trail running, a discipline that would eventually take over his focus from road running.
His achievements are impressive, including victories in the 100km Sunrise to Sunset in Mongolia, the Lofoten Marathon, and multiple Ultra Trail de l’Atlas wins. However, Bazin’s interest has always been more than just competition. His true passion lies in the discovery of new landscapes and the joy of movement, rather than simply winning races.
Key Achievements:
- Winner of the 100km Sunrise to Sunset in Mongolia (2009)
- Winner of the Lofoten Marathon (2009)
- Multiple victories in the Ultra Trail de l’Atlas (2005, 2007)
The Trail World Tour
In 2012, Bazin embarked on a project called the Trail World Tour, which involved running some of the world’s greatest trails. This journey was not about competition but about experiencing time, connecting with the world, and finding meaning through running. His tour began with the 1950-kilometer route from Aix-les-Bains to Fistera, followed by the Great Himalaya Trail in Nepal and the sacred path of the 88 temples in Japan.
Despite suffering a serious accident on the Great Himalaya Trail, Bazin’s spirit remained unbroken. He continued his journey on other trails, such as the Via Francigena from Canterbury to Rome, demonstrating his resilience and commitment to his unique way of life.
Running as a Way of Life
For Bazen, running is as much about physical endurance as it is about mental strength. He doesn’t stick to a strict training program, but lets his experiences on the trails shape his fitness. His runs are first and foremost about getting to know the world around him, other people and himself.
Bazen’s ability to combine his passion for traveling and his journalism career has allowed him to lead a life of both research and storytelling. He shares his experiences and reflections in his writings, making his journey accessible and inspiring to others. His journey continues, and with each new step Bazen discovers more and more, sharing his experiences with those who follow in his footsteps.