Mountain running is thriving in the region. Following August’s Tiger Trail and with the Humani’Trail set to start tomorrow, the Summer Challenge Rougemont–Videmanette has just wrapped up with record numbers and outstanding results from homegrown and international runners alike.

Summer Challenge Rougemont–Videmanette 2025: Record participation and local strength

The 2025 edition of the Summer Challenge Rougemont–Videmanette was one for the history books: 1,074 registrations marked a new record. Over the course of the summer, more than 1,300 ascents were clocked on the seven-kilometre route with 1,200 metres of elevation gain between Rougemont and the Videmanette – more than ever before.

In the men’s race, Martin Fanger (Kägiswil) took the win in 49:04, ahead of William Rodriguez Herrera (Colombia, 49:25) and Dorian Marchal (Ollon, 50:15). Among the women, Axelle Genoud (Neuchâtel) delivered a highlight by finishing in 58:56 – breaking the one-hour mark and setting a new course record. Charlotte Cotton (Gstaad, 1:02:32)and Elisa Mareddu (Châtillon FR, 1:05:49) completed the podium.

Local talent shines
The Saanenland made a strong showing: Charlotte Cotton (Gstaad) finished second overall among the women, Sonja Herrmann-Schläppi (Grund) won the W50 category, and Sinja Reuteler (Grund) triumphed in the junior women’s race. In the youth category, Jonas Zeller (Saanen) took gold in the U16 boys’ field. The sibling duo Yanis and Aylea Reichenbach (Grund) claimed 7th place in the “Elle & Lui” format, while many familiar local names – von Siebenthal, Perreten, Ryter, Berchten, Oehrli – placed high in the rankings.

Among the youngest participants, Elena Herrmann (2014), Aylea Reichenbach (2015) and Sofia Lüthi (2013)impressed with top results, while Richard Goblet d’Alviella (born 1950) finished in the M70 category – proof that the Summer Challenge truly connects all generations.

Team spirit at its best
The Footing-Club Lausanne won the Team Challenge in 1:01:04. Local squads were close behind: TV Saanen-Gstaad placed third, followed by Sportzentrum Gstaad (13th), Wier chäme grad! (14th), 4x2 (15th), Team Saanen Bank (22nd), earlybeck (25th) and Team Richriver (27th). With 24 members, Chaletbau Matti (7th place overall) fielded the largest team of the competition – an effort worth special recognition.

Elle & Lui format
The popular “Elle & Lui” race (112 couples) saw the favourites prevail: Martin Fanger and Marinette Martin claimed victory in 59:23. Several Saanenland duos also stood out, including the Reichenbachs (7th), Herrmann/Wildstrubel (19th), Ryter/Berchten (46th) and the Waldmätteli-Team (79th).

The 2025 Summer Challenge may be over, but the results leave no doubt: the Saanenland is firmly on the map as a mountain running stronghold.
 

Full results: www.rv-run.ch
Summer Challenge Rougemont–Videmanette / Thomas Graf