Some people enjoy the challenge of taking on ludicrous races to test themselves both physically and mentally. With races taking place all over the world in various conditions entrants can expect a varied environment.
A recent Australian paid survey showed that many Australians would only head out to the outback when they were older and it would be for tourist reasons. There is, of course, a marathon that you can do in the outback a great example of unforgiving terrain being challenged by humans.
A recent Australian paid survey showed that many Australians would only head out to the outback when they were older and it would be for tourist reasons. There is, of course, a marathon that you can do in the outback a great example of unforgiving terrain being challenged by humans.
Some people enjoy the challenge of taking on ludicrous races to test themselves both physically and mentally. With races taking place all over the world in v... more
1
Spartathlon
This historically based race is not one for the beginners. It traces the steps of Pheidippides, an Athenian messenger sent to Sparta in 490 BC to seek help against the Persians in the Battle of Marathon. At just under 200km it is a massive race and with competitors having to pass through 75 checkpoints, each with their own time cut off point this is truly one of the most gruelling races of all time.
2
Marathon des Sables
The marathon of the sands is a six day ultra marathon that covers a total of 156 miles. This is the same distance as running six regular marathons. Considered one of the most challenging races in the world.
3
Badwater 135
This is one of the more interesting endurance races that takes place. It is held in the USA and involved competitors running from the lowest point in the USA up to one of the highest points. It is also ran in the middle of the summer and temperatures will exceed 120F. Despite being an extremely gruelling race it is very popular so book early.
4
Antarctic Ice Marathon
This is exactly what it says on the tin. A marathon in the Antarctic, not only distance running but running in an average wind chill factor of -20C.
5
Jungle Marathon
This race has been described as "bushwacking while scaling Everest" just to give you some idea of the endurance required to complete this event.
6
The Brutal
You will begin by swimming 4.8 miles in the beautiful Lake Padarn - this will be the easiest part of your day. Once through transition you will start the extremely challenging bike course. This involves cycling 224 miles through stunning scenery and over brutal hills, you will continue to cycle in darkness and finally get back to transition. If you survive the ride, you will then begin a 52 mile run that involves... yep, more hills! But not just hills because this race is called The Brutal. You will finish by climbing up and down Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales! Brutal.
8
Australian Outback Marathon
A truly Australian experience that will see you running a marathon with Ayers Rock as a back drop.
9
La Ruta de los Conquistadores
This event is held in Costa Rica and follows in the footsteps of Spanish conquerors of 1560. It is widely believed to be in in the top ten endurance events in the world.
10
Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc
The Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (also referred to as UTMB) is a single stage mountain ultramarathon. It takes place once a year in the Alps, across France, Italy and Switzerland. The distance is approximately 166 km, with a total elevation gain of around 9,400 m. It is widely regarded as the most difficult foot race in Europe.
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