“The terrain tells you more about your training than any track test.”
Interview with Klara Bajec
✍️ Tadej Maligoj
After completing the first UTVV training, we sat down in a small pizzeria with the cheerful group and talked to Klara Bajec, an experienced trail runner and one of the guides of the UTVV training sessions. Klara has stood at the start of the Vipava Valley’s gladiator-style race many times (and often on the podium at the finish). Today, as a coach, she helps others enjoy the trail — and avoid unnecessary suffering along the way.
How was today’s run through the Vipava Valley?
“For me, the Vipava Valley is always beautiful. Soft pine-forest paths, muddy clay between the vineyards, steep climbs, rocky descents. On our medium-distance route, the terrain wasn’t too difficult, but it was very diverse. Good thing I did a scouting run beforehand — Andi added a few sharp turns we definitely would’ve missed.
The weather was incredible; we didn’t have to stare at the watch for navigation all the time. It was one of those days when the Vipava Valley is a few degrees warmer than everywhere else. And the views from the ridge were absolutely stunning.”
Why do you think training runs like this are such a good idea?
“You get to know the terrain you’ll face on race day. When you know what’s under your feet, you’re much more relaxed during the race. You can be sure you’ve picked the right gear. You pace yourself better, and you’re not surprised by a long climb or a rocky descent. The terrain shows you where your training might need a little boost.
And during these training runs, we’re not competing — we wait for each other, we help each other. It’s the perfect opportunity for beginners to gain trail experience in a safe group.”
How should someone prepare for their first trail race?
“Trail running is becoming more and more popular, and many road runners are switching to narrow paths in nature — which I love! But the difference isn’t only the longer distances. There’s a lot more climbing, and road runners aren’t always used to that.
I personally spend a lot of time hiking in the mountains. Walking uphill and downhill is excellent for waking up and strengthening muscles that road running doesn’t use — but trail running needs.”
What mistakes do you see most often?
“The results of elite trail runners give the impression that trail pace is similar to road running — but it’s not! Climbing, uneven terrain, wearing a pack, navigation, darkness… There are many skills a beginner trail runner needs to learn.
That’s why I recommend a moderately ambitious plan and patience. It can take months or even years to reach your first 100 km race. But persistence pays off — trail running offers experiences road marathons never will.
I should also mention poles. Many avoid them for too long. On long distances they’re incredibly useful, so I recommend practicing with them early in your preparation. Many people don’t use them in a way that fully takes advantage of the extra push from the arms.”
What is the biggest value of these group training runs for you?
“We’re very relaxed on these training runs. It’s a great opportunity to learn about tactics, planning, gear, and nutrition directly from experienced runners. Many keep returning — like Peter, who has already completed ten UTVV races.
The trail community is traditionally friendly and welcoming, and that really shows during the training runs. We complain about our aches, and we help each other with tips on how to avoid them.
And one more thing — Andi has never cancelled a training run. At most, he adjusts it for safety. We go out in all conditions: rain, strong bora wind… because that’s exactly what might happen on race day. These are experiences that are easier to gain in a group.”
What would you tell those who are unsure if they should join a training run?
“Follow the updates, mark the date, sign up, and come! For zero euros and one Saturday of your time, you’ll walk away with confidence from completing the distance, info on the latest Hoka shoes, the number of the best physiotherapist, and the feeling that you’re one step closer to your next goal.
And of course — with new friends who won’t think you’re crazy for talking about one topic for hours (“How many kilometers, did you say?!”).”
“The terrain tells you more about your training than any track test,” Klara says.
And it’s true — on these training runs, we don’t just discover the Vipava Valley.
We discover ourselves.
