Alister Bignell
International Mountain Leader
The outdoors and especially the mountains have been a way of life for me for as long as I can remember, starting with a career as an outdoor instructor in the UK and then a permanent move out to the Alps in 2006. As well as running lots, I like to go climbing in the summer and winter with friends, exploring new corners of the Alps and trying to improve my languages. The constant through all of this is plenty of fresh coffee and local cakes!
An avid racer of both short and long distances on road and trail, I’m as much motivated by the training required as the actual competition.
Sharing the Alpine trails with people and seeing them inspired by this amazing landscape is what motivates me as a guide. It’s also a constant reminder to see familiar landscapes through fresh eyes, as there is always something new to be learned from guests!
Run the Alps Senior Guide Alister Bignell serves up the first course at Les Mottets, on the Tour du Mont-Blanc.
There’s just a little bit of snow this winter, in the Alps! (Photo by Doug Mayer.)
How did we get here? What Run the Alps has Taught me over Ten Years
As Run the Alps celebrates its 10th Anniversary, Founder Doug Mayer looks back on the journey.
Mirnavator in the Alps
Smart, funny, endearing, our special guest Mirna Valerio also shatters trail running stereotypes. We can’t wait to run with “the Mirnavator” in the Alps!
Chamonix Topo Cap
Designed from scratch with friends here in Chamonix, we love our Run the Alps cap!