Weymouth man shortlisted in international photography prize

David Miller, a gas engineer by trade is a keen follower of trail running and regularly attends events and takes photos. 

The award-worthy photograph was taken at the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc, an ultramarathon regarded as one of the most difficult foot races in the world.

The photograph depicts second placed athlete Mathieu Blanchard collapsing at the finish line after completing the 106 mile course in under 20 hours.

David's photograph finished in the top ten of the 'amateur' category of the World Sports Photography Awards, finishing outside the top three but described as one of 'seven runners-up'.

David Miller said: "It has taken a few days to settle in, to be recognised on a global scale is incredible."

Not a professional photographer, David travels around the U.K and Europe following the trails and taking shots "just for the love of it".

On the photo itself, David said: "He [Mathieu Blanchard] crossed the finish line and collapsed, he managed to run the whole thing sub 20 and there was me and about 50 other photographers trying to get that shot."

He added: "The black and white adds a bit of drama to the image; you can see everyone in the background looking to capture the moment, the setting is perfect. It looks dramatic."

David proudly submitted his photo to be considered for the award, but admitted he did not expect anything to come from it.

He said: "I was very surprised to get the email on Monday (November 7).

"The competition is very good, it feels amazing for me to be among them."

David is looking ahead to keep following the trail running curcuit around the world and has ambitions to visit the USA next year for the Speedgoat Mountain Race on July 22, 2023.

He said: "The biggest runs on the calendar I always try to go if I can. I'd love to go to the US and take pictures there. I just want to keep going, keep taking photos and keep enjoying it."

To see David's photo and more visit his instagram page here.