Frédéric Tranchand Wins the OCC With Merrell in 05:10:08

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chamonix, August 27, 2026

Frédéric Tranchand claimed victory today at the OCC, the 50K final of the UTMB World Series. The French Merrell athlete crossed the finish line in Chamonix in 05:10:08 , after 60 kilometres and 3,500 metres of elevation gain from Orsières, Switzerland, to Chamonix.

The OCC is one of the highlights of HOKA UTMB® Mont-Blanc week, bringing together some of the world’s best trail runners on a particularly demanding alpine course. For his first experience over the 60-kilometre distance, Frédéric Tranchand drew on his knowledge of the terrain and a race strategy perfectly suited to his strengths. After spending several months in Chamonix preparing for this key race, the Merrell athlete made the difference on the steepest climbs before digging deep in the final stages to hold onto the lead all the way to the finish.

“The OCC was my main goal of the year, and I built my season around being in the best possible shape. I found myself alone quite early on and the final part was really challenging, but I played to my strengths, particularly on the steepest climbs. Being based here since the beginning of May helped me a lot: when you know every rock, it naturally gives you more confidence!” said Frédéric Tranchand.

This victory rewards months of preparation and an in-depth knowledge of a course he had the opportunity to truly familiarise himself with. For the Merrell athlete, the performance is also particularly significant as it was the longest race he has ever run, a true step outside his comfort zone, crowned with a victory on one of the most prestigious stages in global trail running.

“Winning here in Chamonix, at the biggest global gathering of trail running, is an incredible feeling. It was a unique moment that I had never experienced before. I’m incredibly grateful for what I’m experiencing right now – it’s crazy!” he added.

The Agility Peak 6 is Merrell’s most versatile trail running shoe. Designed as a reliable ally in a sport as demanding and unpredictable as trail running, it combines a FloatPro™ foam midsole for excellent energy return, FlexConnect™ technology for enhanced stability, and a Vibram® MegaGrip outsole with Traction Lug for optimal grip across all surfaces. In parent company Wolverine Worldwide’s recent Q2 2026 earnings report, Merrell’s revenue grew 11.2%, driven by strong performance of the Agility franchise. It is available at merrell.com and through authorised retailers worldwide.

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