Dorothée Bremer
My journey
Ever since I was a child, I’ve always enjoyed sports and pushing myself. I remember the thrill of competing, the joy of winning, and the valuable lessons learned from losing. Sports have always been a way for me to test my limits and grow both physically and mentally.
I started on my own as a teenager, engaging in athletics, gymnastics, and more. These early experiences taught me the importance of discipline and perseverance. Now, I challenge myself with trail runs, cycling challenges, triathlons, and soon, a marathon! Every race I complete is an accomplishment, but my greatest pride is the triathlon I completed last September.
A triathlon is a multi-sport race with three continuous and sequential endurance races, usually swimming, cycling, and running. Completing it was a significant achievement for me because it tested my endurance, versatility, and mental toughness. Each race I sign up for represents a new personal challenge because they are always different, with varying distances and in different environments. After every race, I feel proud of myself for having crossed the finish line and for having reached another goal, which positively impacts my job as life sciences business manager.
During my triathlon, especially during the swim, I had to push myself because it’s not a discipline I practice often. In the moment, I wanted to give up, but I kept going, and now I’m proud of it. It’s a great mentality to have in everyday life: to always keep going and see your challenges through to the end. There are many similarities between this activity and my job. In sports, things aren’t always easy: there’s stress before races, elevation changes during trail runs, fatigue kicking in during triathlons, and pain during long cycling races. This is similar to busy periods at work where resilience and determination are key.
In both sports and my job, aspects like perseverance, dedication, and a strategic approach are necessary. The challenges I face in my activities teach me patience, resilience, and stress management. These lessons have a significant impact on my work as I apply them to overcome professional obstacles. Balancing both requires careful time management and setting realistic goals for both areas. Anyone interested in starting this activity should start small and be consistent. Set achievable goals, join a supportive community, and enjoy the journey. Celebrate your progress and keep challenging yourself.
Additionally, partnering with a supportive organisation like ALTEN has provided me with invaluable resources and encouragement. Their support, both mentally and in terms of equipment, has enabled me to successfully complete challenging races. This partnership enhances my training and competition experience, offering not just material support but also a sense of community and motivation.
Trail de Bouillon
On June 15th, 2024, I participated in the Godefroy de Bouillon trail, a challenging 20 km race with a 750-meter elevation gain in Bouillon, Belgium. This was the first race sponsored by ALTEN. I finished as the 29th woman out of 405 participants.
This trail is renowned for its rugged terrain and significant elevation changes, making it a true test of endurance and strength. Completing this race required not only physical preparation but also mental resilience, especially when navigating the steep ascents and descents. ALTEN sponsorship was crucial, providing me with the confidence and resources needed to tackle these challenges effectively. Their encouragement was essential to my achievement, and I am thankful for the team’s belief in my abilities.
Trail de Pralognan-la-Vanoise
Recently, I undertook one of my most challenging yet rewarding adventures: a 73 km trail with a 3800-meter elevation gain in Pralognan-la-Vanois, France. This extraordinary race spanned two days, with a night spent in a mountain refuge. The experience was nothing short of breathtaking, with stunning views of the alpine landscape and the serene beauty of the mountains providing constant motivation.
Thanks to ALTEN’s high-quality resources and steadfast encouragement, I tackled the demanding terrain and steep ascents with confidence. The night in the refuge offered a brief respite, a chance to recharge and prepare mentally and physically for the second day of the race. The sense of accomplishment upon completing the trail was immense, knowing I had successfully navigated such a course.
This adventure not only reinforced my love for mountain trails but also highlighted the importance of support and preparation in achieving ambitious goals. The combination of ALTEN’s backing and the sheer determination required for such a race has further solidified my passion for challenging myself and exploring new heights in both my sporting endeavours and professional life.
BXL Tour
On June 16th, 2024, I participated in the BXL Tour, a 40 km cycling race, and completed it in 1 hour and 24 minutes. I was able to surpass my expectations and achieve a great result.
The BXL Tour is a prominent cycling event known for its fast-paced route through the heart of Brussels, attracting both amateur and professional cyclists. The race demands not only speed but also strategic riding and endurance to navigate through the urban landscape. With many races ahead, I deeply appreciate how ALTEN keeps motivating and inspiring me through each challenge.
Trail de la Soupe
On Saturday, November 30, I participated in the Trail de la Soupe in La Roche-en-Ardenne. The course featured a challenging 500-meter elevation gain, set against the backdrop of breathtaking, frosty landscapes that added a touch of magic to the experience. The weather was perfect, with clear skies and crisp air, making the run even more memorable.
We wrapped up this wonderful trail run with a warm, delicious bowl of soup – a perfect way to end the day. Not only was this a truly enjoyable experience, but it also served as excellent preparation for my upcoming marathon in March 2025!
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