Shaken but unharmed, I got up and continued. A mellow section of the slope allowed me to link turns and enjoy the ride, but the steep sections ahead and worsening snow conditions—what skiers call “rotten snow”—proved challenging for a beginner like me.
The final climb to the col was as rewarding as it was challenging. At 3,250 meters, the air was thin, with only 14% oxygen compared to sea level. Like many others coming from lower altitudes, I struggled to maintain a steady pace. A group of cheerful Spanish runners helped lift everyone’s spirits, cheering loudly as we all trudged upward.