In September 2024, I was privileged to participate in the Tor des Geants as a photographer, positioning myself at Col de Malatrà. This point represented the last major ascent for many participants before the descent to Courmayeur. The view from there was extraordinary, allowing me to observe and capture emotional moments as athletes arrived, exhausted yet determined.
One of the most striking moments was when a French athlete reached the summit. He erupted with a joyful shout, raising his poles to the sky, tears in his eyes. That instant encapsulated all the effort and joy of the race.
To face the challenges of the 3000-meter altitude, I prepared with warm clothing and thermoses of hot tea along with all the necessary photography equipment, all packed into a mountain backpack. This preparation proved essential for fully experiencing the event.
I aimed to convey the emotions the athletes felt upon reaching the Col, primarily focusing on them and capturing more intimate moments: kissing the yellow plaque of Malatrà, embracing family and friends, and putting on crampons, emphasizing that the race was not yet over.
If I had to choose one image that represents my experience, it would be of an Asian man in a yellow poncho. It had been a long night under the snow, rocked by the constant wind, but in the morning, the clouds opened up, allowing the sun's rays to shine through. That breathtaking view, illuminated by the most beautiful light I have ever seen, made everything unforgettable.
One of the most striking moments was when a French athlete reached the summit. He erupted with a joyful shout, raising his poles to the sky, tears in his eyes. That instant encapsulated all the effort and joy of the race.
To face the challenges of the 3000-meter altitude, I prepared with warm clothing and thermoses of hot tea along with all the necessary photography equipment, all packed into a mountain backpack. This preparation proved essential for fully experiencing the event.
I aimed to convey the emotions the athletes felt upon reaching the Col, primarily focusing on them and capturing more intimate moments: kissing the yellow plaque of Malatrà, embracing family and friends, and putting on crampons, emphasizing that the race was not yet over.
If I had to choose one image that represents my experience, it would be of an Asian man in a yellow poncho. It had been a long night under the snow, rocked by the constant wind, but in the morning, the clouds opened up, allowing the sun's rays to shine through. That breathtaking view, illuminated by the most beautiful light I have ever seen, made everything unforgettable.
