The ultra-marathon is the benchmark of endurance sport and typically an event that attracts only the hardiest and durable of competitors. It’s not an event that big name marathon runners will make a transition to and ultra-marathons are not exactly a spectator friendly sport, but they are the domain of the toughest athletes on earth.
With distances in excess of 150 miles lasting for six to seven days, there are a number of famous events that take place around the world, however some have earned a name as being more brutal than others. This is a preview of the toughest six ultra-marathons on earth.
With distances in excess of 150 miles lasting for six to seven days, there are a number of famous events that take place around the world, however some have earned a name as being more brutal than others. This is a preview of the toughest six ultra-marathons on earth.
Hardrock – Colorado
At 100 miles this is a relatively short race in the ultra-marathon circuit, however the altitude and joint jarring terrain take a significant toll on competitors. There is a climb and descent of 33,000 feet and the average runner takes 4 hours to complete the course in near freezing temperatures.
Spartathon – Greece
The 153 mile course stretches from Athens to Sparta and is designed to honor the route that the messenger Pheidippides took in 490 BC. It is mercifully run in September to avoid summer heat, however competitors only have 36 hours to complete the course which is rigorously monitored at 75 separate control points. Anyone off the pace is cut. It is a constant push making it one of the toughest events in the world.
6693 Ultra – Arctic Circle
This brutal race takes competitors across the Arctic circle in an event where only 11 competitors have finished. Dragging sleds behind them in the snow along 145 miles in sub-zero temperatures, racers also have pounding Katabatic winds to contend with.
H.U.R.T. 100 – Honolulu
This race is 100 miles with 24,000 feet of elevation along a treacherous mountain path that stretches along a mountain side with very few opportunities to break into a solid run. The trail has Vines, roots, caves and slippery rocks along with mosquitoes and rock stream crossings to contend with.
