Support the 1st Vietnamese woman in the 2025 elite race

Hi! I’m Michelle Mai Ho and I hope you can help support my journey to become one of the first Asian American elite ultra mountain runners to represent the Vietnamese American community in competing in the most challenging and scariest ultra marathon. 110 miles total! I will be heading to Europe in August 2025 for this amazing race that very few Asian Americans qualify for.

The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is a mountain ultramarathon race, first held in 2003, that follows the route of the Tour du Mont Blanc. It has been regarded as the most competitive mountain ultramarathon in the world. The race is 108 miles with approximately 35,000 feet of elevation gain. The race takes the world's most highly elite runners through the Mont Blanc massif, crossing through the French, Italian and Swiss Alps.

Starting as a casual runner in high school, I never imagined I'd reach this level of achievement. But over the past ten years, my love for mountain running has grown, fueled by my passion for nature and outdoor adventures. In April 2024, I achieved a major milestone by finishing 3rd place for women in my age group at The Canyons 100-mile race in Auburn, CA, earning me a spot in the UTMB. It is a true testament of what the mind and the body are able to accomplish if we allowed ourselves to go beyond reality.

Only the most elite runners are qualified to take part in this amazing and challenging championship race. It is widely regarded as one of the most difficult foot races in the world, therefore, the finish rate is often only between 40% to 50%. I'm the first Vietnamese American to ever qualify for this championship race in Europe and it is my dream to represent the community, especially the Vietnamese community.

Due to the difficult terrain in the rugged mountains, runners often require a full crew to help them get to the finish line, especially after running for 36 to 48 hours non stop.

I have an amazing 8 member crew support team that has been there for me throughout my racing career. Without my crew, I would not be where I'm today in the ultra running sport. They are my essential support to complete the race as they provide aid to me throughout the race. Competing in the UTMB is not just a test of endurance but also a testament to the countless hours of training and the unwavering support of my amazing 8-member crew. This incredible team includes a nurse, two pacers, a nutritionist, a technical support engineer, and a dedicated crew leader, all of whom have been by my side throughout my ultra racing career.

The UTMB is an extraordinary challenge, and having my crew with me in Europe in August 2025 is crucial for my success. Their support during the race, which can last from 36 to 48 hours non-stop, is invaluable. However, the costs of race fees, lodging, gear, nutrition fees, training/coaching fees, and transportation are significant.

I'm humbly asking for your support to help bring me and my crew to Europe. Your contribution will make a world of difference, not just in enabling us to participate but in helping us achieve this lifelong dream.

Thank you so much for your generosity and support. Together, we can make this dream of competing in the UTMB a reality and to represent the Asian American mountain running community.