Big Five Marathon
2027-06-19 09:00 - 2030-06-19 23:59 UTC | Big Five Marathon | Location, South Africa
Are you a thrill-seeking runner looking for your next big challenge? Look no further than the Big Five Marathon in the Limpopo province of South Africa. Known as the “world’s wildest marathon,” this race is not for the faint of heart. The stunning surroundings are reason enough to take on the challenge but add in the fact that it takes place in the heart of a wildlife reserve, and you have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Read on to learn more about the Big Five Marathon and why you should add it to your running bucket list.
The Course:
The Big Five Marathon takes place within the Entabeni Safari Conservancy, which means runners are surrounded by some of Africa’s most majestic wildlife. As you run the 26.2-mile course, you’ll have the chance to see the Big Five animals: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, along with other incredible creatures such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Don’t worry, though – the course is designed with safety in mind, and rangers closely monitor the animals to ensure the safety of participants.
The course itself is challenging, but the scenery and wildlife make it all worth it. Runners will traverse through mountains, valleys, grasslands, and riverbeds, all while surrounded by stunning views and incredible animals. It’s a truly unique race experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
The Community:
One of the most unique aspects of the Big Five Marathon is the impact it has on the surrounding community. The race is locally organized and works closely with the villages in the surrounding area. Community members are involved in everything from the race organization to the aid stations along the course. Additionally, a portion of the race fees go towards conservation efforts in the area, so not only are you getting to run through the wilderness, but you’re contributing to its preservation as well.
The Preparation:
If you’re thinking of taking on this unique marathon challenge, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, be prepared for the weather – the race takes place in June, which is the middle of winter in South Africa. Temperatures can be chilly, so pack accordingly. Second, make sure you are properly trained for the course. The combination of hills, uneven terrain, and altitude make for a challenging run. Third, don’t forget your camera! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some incredible wildlife, and you’ll want to capture the memories.
If you’re looking for a race experience unlike any other, the Big Five Marathon is the perfect choice. Not only will you get to push yourself physically, but you’ll also have the chance to see some of the world’s most incredible animals in their natural habitats. It’s a unique opportunity to combine adventure, running, and conservation efforts into one unforgettable experience. So lace up your shoes, pack your bags, and get ready to take on the world’s wildest marathon.
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Badwater 135
2027-07-19 08:00 - 2027-07-21 17:00 | Badwater 135 | Location, Airport Rd, Furnace Creek, CA, 92328, United States
545The Ultra Marathons Of All Ultras
For most of us, running a single marathon can be the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance. But what if there was a race that took it to the extreme, pushing past the limits of what most athletes could ever imagine? Enter Badwater 135, a race that is notorious for being one of the toughest in the world. Located in the scorching hot Badwater Basin of Death Valley, California, this race is not for the faint of heart. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into what makes Badwater 135 so challenging. We’ll discover what motivates runners from around the world to take on this incredible feat.
The Course:
The race begins at Badwater Basin, which lies at the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level. The runners then climb three mountain ranges, including the infamous Mount Whitney, before finishing at the trailhead of the Whitney Portal. The scorching heat of the desert, combined with the rugged terrain and the intense elevation changes, makes Badwater 135 a grueling and demanding test. In fact, the race is so challenging that it has been likened to running three marathons back-to-back.
The Preparation:
Despite the intense conditions, runners from around the world are drawn to Badwater 135 for the ultimate test of their physical and mental endurance. Each runner must bring their own crew to keep them hydrated, nourished, and well-rested throughout the race. There is no prize money or even a formal finisher’s medal, making the race strictly about personal achievement.
The runners who attempt Badwater 135 are a special breed of athlete. The runners are motivated by a deep desire to push their limits beyond what they ever thought possible. Many of them have overcome incredible obstacles, such as cancer or blindness, before stepping up to the starting line. For them, Badwater 135 is not just a race, but a way to prove to themselves what they are capable of in the face of extreme adversity.
The Community:
One of the most remarkable aspects of Badwater 135 is the camaraderie that develops between the runners, crews, and volunteers. Despite the intense competition, everyone involved in the race is united by a shared sense of purpose and mutual respect. Perhaps this is why some runners come back year after year. They come back not just to conquer the race but to be a part of a community that understands what it means to be truly dedicated to a goal.
In conclusion, Badwater 135 is a race that tests the limits of human endurance in every way possible. From the unforgiving temperatures of the desert to the grueling elevation changes along the way. This race demands everything that runners have to give and then some. Yet, those who attempt it are united by a shared sense of purpose and an unshakable desire to push themselves beyond what they ever thought possible. For them, Badwater 135 is not just a race, but a way to prove to themselves and the world that they have the strength, the will, and the determination to overcome any obstacle that life throws their way.
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