Meet Marie-Pierre Guilbaud, an iconic figure in cross-country skiing.

“If you’re planning on running a cross-country ski race, this is definitely the one for you!”

Meet Marie-Pierre Guilbaud, an iconic figure in cross-country skiing. Today, she explains her role as race director within Trans’Organisation for the Transjurassienne and shares her tips for a successful Transju’. 

Who is Marie-Pierre Guilbaud? 

Newly retired from her career as a schoolteacher, she embodies an unwavering passion for cross-country skiing that has driven her for over 45 years. 

A member of Stade Clermontois where she competed in track and field, it was during winter training camps in the mountains that cross-country skiing crossed her path—and never left her side. 

Today, skiing is pure bliss for her, offering the unique thrill of gliding over snow in the quiet stillness of the forests while sharing “these incredible sensations with friends.” 

A member of the French Nordic ski team from 1988 to 1995, she competed in the 1992 Albertville Olympic Games. She has also claimed 4 victories at the Transjurassienne in 1989, 1991, 1994, and 1995. With over a dozen races under her belt, she has been guiding the participants of Skier pour Elles (a charity supporting the fight against women's cancers) along the 25km classic for several years now. 

The Transjurassienne in three words: spellbinding, legendary, and welcoming to all.

Marie-Pierre Guilbaud chose 3 words to capture the spirit of the Transjurassienne. Here is why:

• Spellbinding: “Because once you’re registered, it takes over your mind completely (your training, your sleep, your nutrition…).”
• Legendary: “It is one of the most magnificent events on the Worldloppet circuit, drawing competitors from 32 different nations every single year.”
• Welcoming to all: “Cross-country skiing, which often remains an insider sport, comes alive that day in an electric, indescribable community spirit with 4,000 racers of all skill levels sharing the track in pure camaraderie.”

What does the role of race director involve? 

“After living the thrill of the race as an athlete, I was deeply honored to be offered this role,” shares Marie-Pierre Guilbaud. “Racers—myself included back then—don’t realize the massive groundwork that goes on behind the scenes: permits, logistics, transport… Stepping onto the other side of the fence offers a fascinating perspective,” she explains. “This race holds profound meaning for me; it’s my way of giving back what the sport has given me.”

Preparing the courses for a legendary event of this scale is a massive undertaking. 

Marie-Pierre Guilbaud outlines the key phases of this intricate process: “We begin with extensive administrative legwork upstream, securing all necessary permits, especially given the strict environmental guidelines that protect our race’s wild terrain. Rallying the volunteers and coordinating with authorities such as the gendarmerie and the prefecture are also crucial milestones in this meticulous preparation.”

To carry out this mission successfully, Marie-Pierre Guilbaud relies on a multi-talented team. “The president, Pierre Albert Vandel, is a cornerstone with an unmatched, intimate knowledge of the race. His experience allows him to anticipate any challenge with absolute precision,” she highlights.

And what about the course itself?

The signature hallmark of the course lies in its inter-departmental crossing: “What sets it apart from all other events is this journey between two departments. It winds through iconic mountain villages where an electrifying atmosphere takes over on race day.”

The ultimate showdown on the course often revolves around the legendary Risoux climb: “Which is widely regarded as the race's decisive battleground, ripe for blistering attacks. Victory almost always belongs to an athlete endowed with immense physical endurance.”

Marie-Pierre Guilbaud shares her precious advice for Transju’ contenders: “There’s nothing like hitting the snow regularly right from the start of winter, but above all, stay active and build your fitness all year long. And come race day: SOAK IT ALL IN!”

When it comes to inspiring someone to enter this must-do event, she never runs short of compelling arguments. “If you’re dreaming of a cross-country ski race, this is the one! Diverse Nordic tracks, the joyful clanging of cowbells ringing through the villages, flawless organization… And most of all, you’ll meet passionate skiers—a warm-hearted community that beats to the rhythm of this incredible sport.”

Join us on February 10 and 11, 2024, to live the myth of the Transjurassienne.

Register at: www.latransju.com