Ambassador storms to double European gold in long distance titles

Ambassador David Haunschmidt has overcome a torn hamstring to be crowned the 2023 Xterra European Trail Champion in Italy in a time of 4:48:05, beating 349 competitors.

His victory came just nine days after an injury-impaired attempt in UTMB OCC, but provided enough time to recover to take out the win in the European highlight. 

A few wrong turns cost him several minutes and meant he was made to work hard to maintain the lead against professional runner Michele Meridio. 

David said: "I’ve found CurraNZ a great benefit whilst travelling and racing. Not only for its endurance and fat adaption effects for these long races, but also for their health benefits whilst travelling meaning sometimes not eating or sleeping as well as able to at home. Awesome to have these in your corner to improve all these aspects."

After XTerra, Haunschmidt wins Ben Nevis Ultra in course-record time

Just eight days after his sensational XTerra win, David lined up at the Salomon Ben Nevis Ultra to claim another gold medal.

The Ben Nevis Ultra is race four in the Skyrunning UK & Ireland 2023 series, where wet conditions meant a course change for safety reasons along the steeper parts exposed to wind and rain.

A Scottish native residing in New Zealand, the conditions didn't detract from David's pace or performance as he took control at the 15km mark.

Leading all the way home, David crossed the finish line under six hours, setting a new course record in the process.

David says: "When I decided to do some races in Europe I picked some of the hardest events both from a competitive & course standpoint. I have not been disappointed!"

We asked David when he was planning on turning 'Pro' however he said he didn't have any immediate plans to change careers, despite his obvious 'ultra' ability.