Näak Ambassador Elliot Cardin

Professional Trail Runner

CANADA, QC

« Training to perform your best when you're feeling your worst! »

I started the race in 2015. My brothers-in-law both ran marathons and I was intrigued by the challenge. I started running road half-marathons and fell in love with the discipline. Soon after, I discovered trail running and loved it even more. I have always loved nature, adventures and mountains: with trail running, I am able to connect my love of the sport with other passions. Since that time, I've accumulated some podiums in races in Quebec, including first place in the 65km of the 2018 Ultra Trail Harricana. This performance earned me a selection on the Canadian team for the 2019 World Trail Championships in Portugal, which was unfortunately a poorly rated performance. However, I'm very satisfied at my second place in the 80k Bear Mountain on the circuit the north face endurance challenge and my most recent performance on the 100k at the Black Canyon Ultra 2020 with a 3rd place and obtaining the golden ticket for the Western State 2021. In the coming years, I would like to race more internationally to explore the world and compete against the best in my discipline.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

2020 3RD BLACK CANYON ULTRA: WON WESTERN STATE 2021 GOLDEN TICKET

2018 WON ULTRA TRAIL HARRICANA OF CANADA 65K

2017 2ND PLACE BEAR MOUNTAIN 80K, NEW-YORK

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU EVERY DAY TO TRAIN?

Definitely the desire to enjoy nature, to get some fresh air and move around. I like to be outside and active: for me it's a therapy, it takes me that every day for my well being.

DO YOU HAVE A PERSON WHO INSPIRES YOU?

Kilian Jornet is a really great source of motivation and inspiration. I am fascinated by his exploits, yes, but even more by his simplicity, his authenticity and his pure love for the mountains and the environment which draws parallels to my values.

WHAT ARE YOUR TIPS FOR NOT LOSING ENERGY DURING your races?

Obviously, there is the physical preparation and nutrition strategy where I try to eat at least 200 calories per hour and drink at least 500ml of water. However, the most important thing for me is the mental preparation which I practice with visualization. To get through an ultra marathon, you have to be ready to suffer and be dedicated to your goal, because even a person in very good physical condition will inevitably have difficulties. It is the mental strength and perseverance that allows you to get through racing well.

WHAT IS YOUR BEST RACING MEMORY?

Definitely my finish sprint with Charlie Ware at Black Canyon Ultra 100k this winter. There were many strong sensations and I gave a big final kick at the end of an ultra. It's pretty rare that something like that happens. Moreover, the 3rd position is the performance of which I am most proud of!

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU LIKE TO DO AFTER A RACE?

Drink a good cold Kombucha, lie down on the ground and have a good time with the people who supported me and the other runners.

What is your favorite music to surpass yourself in training?

I very rarely listen to music during training. I like to stay connected to my body and listen to the sound of the forest when I'm on the trail. I even find the sound of my steps very meditative. On the other hand, when I need a motivational boost for a difficult workout, my artist of choice is NF.