Rosanna Buchauer has had an impressive year. From thrilling races in the Alps to a challenging adventure in the Himalayas – the trail running athlete has not only achieved her sporting goals, but also gained valuable insights. We spoke to Rosanna about her season, her personal highlights and what drives her to pursue the sport with so much passion.
1st Dear Rosanna, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on this incredible season. The question of all questions: How do you manage to perform like this on the trails? What do you think it takes to be so successful?
R: The season was really great and my achievements make me very proud. Above all, I didn’t expect it at all because of my injuries. Trail running often gets me into a flow where I feel strong, confident and full of trust. Consistency is a key success factor here. I’ve learned to accept situations – whether in training or in competition – and to trust that I can do it.
2. please tell our readers which races you competed in this year.
R: I had an exciting season with these races:
- Zegama – Place 17 (43 km)
- Lavaredo Ultratrail – 1st place (120 km)
- Grossglockner Ultratrail – 1st place (56 km)
- CCC UTMB Charmonix – 3rd place (110 km)
- Snowman Race in Bhutan – 1st place (5 days over 176 km)
3. so many top placings. What was your highlight this year?
R: Clearly the victory at the Lavaredo Ultratrail! Simply because the victory showed me that I had overcome my injury and was pain-free. My friends and family were also there to cheer me on and, above all, the weather was great. It was just a great experience all round.
4. what was the biggest challenge this season?
R: To stay with myself and not drive myself crazy. Social media only gives you a glimpse into the lives of others – you often think that others are thinner, work out more or recover faster. I had to keep focusing on staying with myself, trusting my trainer, my physio and my nutritionist.
5. What are you particularly proud of?
R: I have managed to retain the joy and ease of mountain sports. I love running, but I also need the variety around it. I’m glad that I still don’t have a rigid focus purely on sport – balance is very important to me.
6. what are your goals for the coming season?
R: My big goal is the Western States (161 km) at the end of June 2025. The terrain is difficult, often with snow on the highest passes and high temperatures in the deep valleys towards the end of the race. I have the utmost respect for this race and am looking forward to the challenge.
7. what does your typical preparation for a race look like?
R: The week before, I try to get enough sleep and reduce my appointments (private and work-related) in order to have enough time for myself. It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids, eat well and prepare mentally and rest.
8. how do you recover from the exertions after a race?
R: Sleeping, eating well and, above all, being nice to myself. I enjoy relaxed evenings with friends and a big brunch after a good night’s sleep.
9. nutrition: What do you pay attention to? Do you have any special routines before a race?
R: I prepare a lot of food myself and avoid processed foods. Chocolate is my weakness – and at the same time my strength, because it’s good for the brain and provides energy. Before a race, I make sure to replenish my stores and drink a lot. I deliberately keep my routines flexible so that I don’t get stressed if something is missing. I stick to rice, oatmeal, oat milk, bananas and chocolate as a base.
10) Since this year you are also part of the PANACEO athletes team and you told us that you are a fan of the PANACEO Sport Powder (product Sport Pure). How does the product support you in your training?
R: I take the powder in water every morning to prepare my gastrointestinal tract for the day. I often take it before going to bed after intensive training or a late meal. I reach for the capsules when I’m traveling. Since then, my digestion has improved and I have virtually no problems with my stomach or bowel movements – this also relieves me mentally enormously. Especially during intensive training periods and competitions.
Rosanna is not only an exceptional athlete, but also a role model for mental strength and the joy of sport. It shows us how important it is to trust in our own path, face challenges with composure and never lose sight of the fun.
We wish her every success for the coming season – and above all for her big goal at Western States – and are excited to see what milestones she will achieve. Thank you, Rosanna, for taking us on your journey!
