Challenging Long-Distance Running Events That Test Endurance Around the Globe
The world of ultramarathons is a realm where human resilience is pushed to its limits. These gruelling races, held across the globe, offer unique and challenging terrains that test the physical and mental endurance of even the most seasoned runners. Here are some of the world's most notable ultramarathons, each with its own set of extreme challenges.
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) is a 100-mile race around Mont Blanc, traversing France, Italy, and Switzerland. With approximately 30,000 feet of climbing on very technical trails, this race presents a formidable challenge to even the most experienced runners. The combination of tough elevation, rugged terrain, and elite international competition makes UTMB prestigious and demanding.
The Rut is a 50K race in Montana with over 20,000 feet of elevation change on highly technical, exposed mountain terrain. Its steep descents and rocky paths test runners’ downhill skills and endurance under exposure.
The Western States Endurance Run is the oldest 100-mile race in the world, taking place on mountainous terrain in California with varied conditions over long distances. This race tests endurance and pacing, making it a true test of human fortitude.
The Badwater 135 is known as the world’s toughest foot race. It covers 135 miles from Death Valley to Whitney Portal, with extreme heat often exceeding 100°F, multiple mountain ranges, and 14,600 feet of vertical ascent. The brutal heat and elevation changes push runners to their limits. The race also imposes a 48-hour finish limit.
The Leadville Trail 100 Run is a 100-mile high-altitude race in the Rocky Mountains, starting at 10,200 feet and rising to 12,500 feet with two major climbs, including Hope Pass. The thin air, rugged mountainous terrain, and elevation define its harshness and appeal.
Another notable ultramarathon is the Marathon des Sables, a 155-mile trek through the Sahara Desert. Participants have to tote their own food and sleeping gear for seven days, and the race takes place over unending sand, where temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The race also has a sandstorm risk, which can diminish visibility to zero. The Marathon des Sables is home to 12 species of venomous snakes and 10 types of venomous scorpions.
The Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra is a 430-mile event in Canada's Yukon, with a 13-day time limit. Runners must carry a sleeping bag, winter sleeping mat, bivouac bag or tent, small saw, crampons, and an avalanche shovel. The harsh Arctic conditions make this race one of the most challenging in the world.
One of the most elusive ultramarathons is the Barkley Marathons. With only 17 completions since its inception in 1986, this race is notoriously difficult. Runners must navigate without markers or aid stations, find paperbacks scattered around the course, and complete a 20-mile loop five times within 60 hours. To enter, runners must pen an essay on why they should be allowed to compete and find out where to submit it from a previous competitor. The Barkley Marathons is held in Tennessee's Frozen Head State Park, with a 99 percent dropout rate.
In March 2023, three athletes completed the Barkley Marathons for only the second time in the race's history. The Badwater ultramarathon attracts entrants for its 100 coveted spots.
These extreme ultramarathons challenge participants not just physically, but also mentally. Blisters, sunburn, and possibly hallucinations are common experiences for those taking on these races. Despite the difficulties, these events continue to attract runners from around the world, drawn by the allure of pushing their limits and testing their endurance in some of the most inhospitable environments on the planet.
Participating in the Barkley Marathons, nestled in Tennessee's Frozen Head State Park, tests not just the physical endurance but also the mental toughness of runners, with a 99 percent dropout rate and no easy markers or aid stations to guide the way.
Ultramarathons, such as the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, the Rut, Western States Endurance Run, Badwater 135, Leadville Trail 100 Run, Marathon des Sables, Montane Yukon Arctic Ultra, and the Barkley Marathons, offer sports enthusiasts a chance to push their boundaries and explore extreme terrains, making them some of the most challenging and sought-after races in the world.
