Diego Pazos 'Zpeedy'| Pro Trail Runner

Diego Pazos "Zpeedy" | Pro Trail Runner

Sporting his quirky moustache and bowtie, Diego ´Zpeedy´ Pazos, ensures there is rarely a serious moment in the team since his arrival to Compressport in 2016. After 23 years of playing football, he is still relatively new to the Ultra Trail Running scene, but has already become a household name in the sport, reaching several podiums in the Worlds biggest races. With a Bachelor and a Masters degree in Forensic Science and Chemical Criminalistics, when not on the trails, Diego is kept busy working as a case office and scientific expert in the Swiss Federal Police. Between this and spending time with his little boy Kaylo, his nickname ´Zpeedy´, fits his life both on and off the trails. At 35 years of age, we are sure there is much left to be seen from our Swiss runner.

Diego's best results

• 1st OMAN by UTMB 2018
• 1st Eiger Ultra Trail E101 2016
• 2nd MIUT 2019
• 5th Transvulcania 2019

Between this and being a father to two children, his nickname ´Zpeedy´, fits his life both on and off the trails. At 36 years of age, we are sure there is much left to be seen from our Swiss runner.

How did you get into Trail Running?
In 2011, after watching the beautiful images of the sunrise at the Col de la Seigne of the UTMB, I thought to myself: “ Wow this is incredible and these guys are crazy ;-)” So then I decided to set the UTMB as a life goal but after my first Ultra in 2012, the passion and the pleasure of this sport grew bigger and stronger and now I find myself discovering the world thanks to Trail running :)

What is your biggest goal to achieve in the sport?

To live thrilling adventures! Being on the podium or winning the Diagonale des fous at the Reunion Island is a dream but my biggest goal is to be able to enjoy trail running for as long as possible and, who knows, maybe enjoy some races with my little boy and girl one day….

But for now, my biggest focus is on my Crossing Switzerland project this August. I am excited to combine my passion for running with the origins of the brand in Switzerland, in setting the benchmark on crossing the Alpina Pass.

When you're not running, what else are you into?

I am working 80% of the time, so from Monday to Thursday at the Swiss Federal Police as a Scientific Expert. I am also a happy husband to a wonderful woman and a proud daddy of a little boy and new baby girl. Next to that I am the Co-organiser and Race director of the Montreux Trail Festival in Switzerland

Please tell me your best race memory?

I have so many good memories while racing!!! I had the chance to enjoy at least one or two big big moments every year since I started running Ultra Trails in 2013. If I have to choose one, it is maybe the first one, my first 100 miles finish line, UTMB 2014, 11th.

I had to give up UTMB 2013 in Trient after big big stomach issues during the race and I was back in 2014 with a taste of revenge and a lot of motivation. The race was hard as always at UTMB but everything went well until the last two downhills where I started to feel a sharp pain on my right leg and could barely run the last 25k. I gave it everything I had, entering in Chamonix 11th with all my friends and family smiling, cheering and crying. It was very emotional.

I started Ultra Trail to finish this race and all the training and sacrifices that I made during two years were paid off in front of all my loved ones.

Why Compressport?

It means being at home! We are a family and I feel good with all the guys and the staff. I am always very eager to see them all and it gives me a lot of motivation to know that your team is behind you during a competition. Wherever you race we support you!!

Your favourite Compressport Product?

The Free Belt Pro because I can wear it anytime anywhere. It is the best companion to carry water, food, mobile phone, keys, beers...and whatever you want :)

Finally…tell us a bit more about yourself

I am known as the "Bow Tie Runner" as I am always running with my red or gold bow tie during the competitions in memory of my wife and my friends ;-)

Otherwise I would say that I am a dynamic and smiley person. Regarding my flaws, my wife will be more than happy to share some with you.

Also….I will share a little secret with you... I would have loved to become a sports commentator.