When the Trail Ends: Ourea Events

Posted on March 16, 2026 by talkultra

The statement from Shane Ohly announcing that Ourea Events has ceased trading reads, on the surface, like a simple apology paired with an explanation. But underneath that, it reveals something more complex. It is the end of a business in its current form, the exposure of a fragile economic model, and a moment of uncertainty for everyone tied to these events.

Read – OUREA EVENTS CEASE TRADING – A SAD DAY

For Shane and the company, this marks a decisive turning point. Ceasing to trade is not a pause or a scaling back. It is an acknowledgment that continuing would likely make the financial situation worse.

Regrettably, the current trend in entries for 2026 clearly indicates that the financial situation will only gradually deteriorate further this year. Therefore, it has become evident that continuing to trade is neither fair nor reasonable, as it risks increasing the overall debt owed to creditors, participants, and suppliers.

The reference to “professional advisors” strongly suggests that some form of insolvency process is underway, where financial and legal priorities begin to outweigh personal control. At that stage, decisions are no longer entirely in the hands of Shane, the founder. They are guided by what is fair and lawful for creditors as a whole.

Ourea Events was not a faceless operation. On the contrary. Ourea was built over fifteen years, with a strong reputation in the trail running world and a loyal international following. When something like this ends, it is not just a balance sheet that collapses. The tone of the statement reflects that. It does not read like a defensive corporate message. It reads like someone who knows people have trusted them, financially and emotionally, and feels the impact of that trust being broken. It is identity, relationships, and a sense of responsibility. You only need to turn to social media, you will see the support for Shane and Ourea. Equally, one has to acknowledge, those who have potentially lost money, are far more questioning and scathing.

At the same time, this is not necessarily the end of the events themselves. There is a careful but important distinction in the wording. The company is ceasing to trade, but there is hope that the events may continue “under a different structure or ownership.” That suggests that what Ourea created still has value. Races like the Dragon’s Back Race or Cape Wrath Ultra are not easy to replicate. They carry brand recognition, proven demand, and a distinct identity. In practical terms, that means they could be sold, licensed, or revived by another organiser. If that happens, what survives is the idea and the experience, even if the original company does not.

HARD TRUTHS

For participants, however, the situation is far more immediate and uncertain. The key issue is money already paid. Entry fees for these kinds of events are often substantial and are usually paid long in advance. When a company ceases trading under financial distress, those participants effectively become unsecured creditors. That is a technical term, but the implication is simple. They are in line behind any secured lenders, and there is no guarantee of getting their money back. However, if participants have payed by credit or debit card with fees over 100.00 UK pounds, there may be a possibility to recoup payments via “Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974: This makes the credit card provider jointly liable with the retailer if a purchase goes wrong (e.g., goods not received, faulty, or company goes bust).”

The wording of the statement reflects this reality. It avoids promising refunds and instead speaks about trying to “deliver value.” That choice of language matters. It leaves open a range of outcomes, from partial refunds to the possibility of entries being honoured by a new organiser, or credits toward future events. It also signals that a full refund for everyone is unlikely. Even in the best case, any resolution will take time. These processes do not move quickly, and participants are left in a difficult position, waiting without clear answers.

If another company steps in, there is a chance that existing entries could be recognized in some form. That might mean a transfer, a discount, or priority access. But it depends entirely on whether a deal is reached and what a new organiser is willing to take on. There is no certainty in that outcome.

Perspective – Running Races Aren’t Cheap. And That’s the Reality We Need to Accept.

Stepping back, the situation says a great deal about the wider endurance event industry. Ourea’s explanation outlines a sequence of pressures that, taken together, became unsustainable. Before the pandemic, the business was profitable, even if modestly so. Then COVID-19 removed revenue entirely for an extended period while costs and obligations remained. That alone would have been difficult to recover from. But it was followed by Brexit, which significantly reduced international participation, a key part of the customer base. At its peak, half of some events’ participants came from abroad. Losing a large portion of that audience is not a temporary dip. It is a structural change.

On top of that came inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. Event budgets are set far in advance, and prices cannot always be adjusted quickly. When costs rise by around 20 percent but entry fees lag behind, margins disappear. What emerges from all of this is a business model that depends heavily on stability. It relies on predictable demand, steady costs, and a continuous flow of advance payments. When those conditions break, the model struggles to adapt.

The decision to cease trading now, rather than continue and risk accumulating further debt, is significant. It limits the damage, even if it does not prevent it. Continuing in the hope that things might improve can sometimes make the eventual outcome worse for everyone involved, Shane certainly eludes to this in his wording. In that sense, this is a controlled stop rather than a collapse at the last possible moment.

There is also value in the transparency of the explanation, however, for those who have paid money, there is still a great deal to be clarified and there are many questions, particularly when several have referenced a second company – OUREA EVENTS HOLDINGS LIMITED – which has Shane Ohly as Director – eager participants have researched this company, and on appearance, has a balance of 150,000 UK pounds, 31st Dec 2024. Now of course, there is no context here and I have no understanding of the implications of this.

Shane does not shift blame in his statement onto a single factor or avoid the financial reality. Instead, he lays out the combination of events that led here. For participants, that does not replace lost money or cancelled plans, but it does provide context. It makes clear that this was not a sudden failure or a single bad decision, but a gradual tightening of pressure over several years.

Still, the negatives are real and immediate. Participants may lose money, and even if they do not, they lose certainty. Training plans, travel arrangements, and personal goals built around these events disappear overnight. Trust is also affected. Endurance events often depend on participants committing early, sometimes a year or more in advance. Situations like this make people more cautious, which in turn makes the business model even harder to sustain.

There are also ripple effects beyond the runners themselves. Suppliers, local communities, and small partners who depend on these events lose income. Volunteers and staff lose opportunities. What looks like a single company closing is, in reality, a small network being disrupted.

We are especially aware of participants who have already paid race entry fees for our events. By opting to cease trading at this stage, our goal is to maximise the likelihood that the events will continue under a different structure or ownership.

Looking ahead, the most likely outcome is not a simple disappearance, but a reshaping. Could Ourea reappear in 1-year using Phoenixing? – the same business or directors trade successively through a series of companies which liquidate or dissolve leaving debts unpaid – Basically, Shane and Ourea could rise from the ashes – “…cease trading and allow the business to undergo a reorganisation” If that is a plan, it better be handled very, very delicately. “The law allows owners, directors and employees of insolvent or dissolved companies to set up new companies to carry on a similar business. This is as long as the individuals involved are not personally bankrupt or disqualified from acting in the management of a limited company.” – GOV.UK

Some of these events may return under new ownership, potentially at higher prices and with more conservative structures. Others may not come back at all if they are too complex or costly to run sustainably. Across the industry, there may be a shift toward more cautious growth, more realistic pricing, and perhaps a reconsideration of how much risk is placed on participants paying far in advance.

Ourea Events, as it has existed, is likely finished. In the end, this moment sits somewhere between an ending and a transition. But what Shane and Ourea created still has value, and there is a real possibility that parts of it will continue in a different form. For now, though, the dominant reality is uncertainty.

For Shane, it is the closing of a long chapter. For participants, it is a waiting game with no guaranteed outcome. And for the wider community, it is a reminder that even well-loved and well-run events are not immune to broader economic forces.

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COUNTDOWN TO MDS LEGENDARY 2026 – ISSUE THREE

Posted on March 16, 2026 by talkultra

Marathon des Sables: What a Week in the Desert Really Looks Like

The Marathon des Sables has always been legendary. In 2026, it becomes something even more special.

This edition marks the 40th anniversary of the race. Four decades of runners crossing the Sahara under their own power. Forty years of stories, struggle, and unforgettable moments. To honour that history, the 2026 race will be longer, tougher, and designed to celebrate everything the event has become.

As we move through March, I’m sharing a short series of weekly articles to help sharpen your preparation. This is the third of four. The goal is simple: remove uncertainty.

When you arrive in the desert, you should know what to expect.

For many runners, especially first-timers, the unknowns can feel overwhelming. What happens when you arrive in Morocco?

How does the bivouac work?
What does a typical day look like?
And how do the logistics of such a remote race actually function?

Let’s walk through it together.

The Evolution of the Race

The Marathon des Sables has changed over the years, and many of those changes focus on reducing environmental impact.

Past participants will notice significant differences. Charter planes have been removed. More transport now happens overland. The race increasingly relies on local staff and local produce. Media presence has been reduced. A storage centre in Morocco limits the need for shipping equipment every year. Transport trucks have been reduced, and power-saving measures are everywhere, including solar energy.

Water management has also evolved. In the past, runners received 1.5-litre bottles. Today, the race distributes 5-litre bottles, dramatically reducing plastic use during the event.

Behind the scenes is a large support structure dedicated to safety.

• Around 120 medical staff, known as the Orange Jackets, monitor runner safety 24 hours a day.

• The Blue Jackets focus on runner relations. They are present in the bivouac, on the course, and at checkpoints. If you have a question or concern, they are your first point of contact.

Out on the course, SSV vehicles provide rapid access across the route and carry medical professionals for immediate response. In addition, there are 12 support 4×4 vehicles and a unique system of 40 camel patrol teams. These local teams monitor specific zones and report any issues quickly.

Add to that 20 medical patrol staff on the course and another 25 blue and orange jacket team members, and you begin to see how carefully the race is supported despite its remote setting.

Arriving in Morocco

Your journey begins in Ouarzazate, the meeting point for the race.

Plan to arrive at least one day early. This gives you time to settle in and avoids unnecessary stress before the adventure begins. Hotels are your responsibility to book.

The organisation provides free transfers from Marrakech to Ouarzazate, usually departing from the airport and a designated hotel. Always check official timings before travelling.

On Day 1, buses depart from Ouarzazate for the first bivouac. The journey takes roughly six hours across spectacular desert landscapes. A lunch pack is provided, but it’s wise to bring extra snacks and drinks.

When you arrive at the bivouac, you’ll be assigned a tent number. Remember you are self-sufficient in regard to food, water is provided. For the moment, you still have access to your luggage. The following day, after administrative checks, you will deposit that luggage and begin the self-sufficient part of the race.

From this point forward, the desert becomes your home.

Life in the Bivouac

Bivouac life is simple. Very simple.

There are no showers and no power. You live under traditional desert tents with seven other runners. It can feel crowded when everyone is organising gear, so respect each other’s space and keep things tidy.

There are a few practical rules that quickly become important:

• Toilets are installed throughout the bivouac and at checkpoints.

• Some toilets are designated women-only or mixed-use, and it’s important to respect those arrangements.

• Biodegradable hygiene bags are provided and waste is separated into organic and sanitary bins.

Phones are strongly discouraged in camp. The bivouac is meant to be a place for rest, conversation, and disconnection. If you need to make an emergency call, move away from camp out of respect for others.

There is also an IP phone available for emergency calls, costing €2 per minute.

Another change from previous years is the removal of the email message system. This reinforces the race’s self-sufficient spirit and saves thousands of sheets of paper that were previously used to print messages.

Instead, runners can use Emotion Boxes to record short video messages that are sent to loved ones. You need to designate before the race who these messages will be sent to.

At the centre of camp sits the Info Tent, where Blue Jackets are always present. This is where you:

• collect your daily water

• ask questions

• check rankings

• access medical support if needed

Additional facilities include women’s changing cabins and sanitary products available both in the bivouac and at checkpoints.

A few other important bivouac rules:

• Never light a fire within 50 cm of tents

• Do not walk barefoot

• Drop empty water bottles at designated recycling points

• On bivouac move days, return containers to the Info Tent

It may sound strict, but these rules keep the camp safe, clean, and functioning smoothly.

The First Administrative Day

Administrative day begins at 9:00 AM.

This is when everything becomes official.

You will go through administrative, technical, and medical checks, while the MDS shop opens nearby. At the shop you can purchase WAA apparel, fire bricks and any other last-minute things you may have forgotten or need.

Each runner receives one 5-litre bottle of mineral water, which must last until the first checkpoint of the race.

Before heading to the checks, prepare the required documents:

• Passport

• Completed technical control form

• Medical certificate

• Resting electrocardiogram (ECG)

During the admin process you will:

1. Deposit your luggage (it will later be returned to you in Ouarzazate).

2. Present your documents and mandatory equipment.

3. Have your race pack weighed.

4. Undergo medical verification.

5. Receive your GPS beacon.

6. Submit your technical control form and receive two race bibs.

If you need to discard a personal item listed on your form later, you must inform the organisation or risk a penalty.

Later in the day:

• 4:30 PM – Stage briefing

• 6:00 PM – 40th anniversary photo session

The race is now very real.

A Typical Day in the Desert

Every stage day follows a similar rhythm. Wake up will typically be around 0400 to 0500.

Breakfast is self-sufficient, using the food you’ve carried with you.

Stage tart times vary, but be prepared and ready for 05:30. If temperatures are high, the start may move earlier. Plan for at least 90 minutes of preparation before the start.

Thirty minutes before the stage begins, you must be ready. The race starts on time and no one is held back.

Out on the course, each checkpoint typically between 8-10km’s provides:

• water distribution

• medical presence

• toilets and hygiene supplies

At the finish line, you receive a 5-litre bottle of water, which must last until the first checkpoint the following day. To clarify, you need to drink, cook dinner, wash (if you can spare the water), make breakfast and fill bottles ready to last to CP1 all from the 5ltr bottle.

Each evening the Info Tent and medical clinic are open.

Safety in the Desert

Despite the race’s self-sufficient nature, medical support is extensive. Assistance is available before, during, and after every stage. However, runners are expected to understand basic foot care, which is essential during multi-day desert racing.

For more serious problems, the Dokever medical team takes over.

If you must withdraw from the race, you must notify the organisation. In emergencies, medical evacuation will occur. For non-emergency withdrawals, transport will be arranged back to Ouarzazate, but hotel and food costs will be your responsibility.

At night during a stage, headlamps are mandatory.

Navigation and Desert Conditions

The course is marked clearly and all checkpoints are mandatory. Cutting across the course is forbidden.

Compass headings in the road book are provided as guidance if visibility becomes poor. Know how to use a compass and take a bearing!

Sandstorms

If a sandstorm arrives:

• protect your eyes – you need good glasses and ideally goggles

• cover your nose and mouth typically with a Buff or similar

• stay close to other runners

If visibility drops, stop moving and immediately remove compass and take a bearing for the direction of travel. When conditions improve you can move again relying on the compass bearing to ensure you are going in the correct direction.

If you stray from the course, the organisation will receive an alert from your GPS beacon and locate you.

If You Become Lost

It is highly unlikely that you become lost at MDS, however, it is possible to stray of course and feel disorientated. If you cannot see course markings for ten minutes:

1. Stop and assess your position.

2. Climb a small rise if possible to scan the horizon.

3. Backtrack for up to ten minutes if necessary.

Remember, you have a tracker, so, MDS organisation will know where you are and will be able to find you – do not panic.

As a last resort, activate the SOS function on your GPS beacon.

Distress signals can also be made using whistle blasts or torch flashes at night

To alert SOS with a whistle, the internationally recognized distress signal is three short, sharp blasts, followed by a pause, and then repeated. While the full Morse code for SOS is three short, three long, and three short blasts, the simplified “three blasts” method is more commonly used in disaster preparedness to call for help.

To alert SOS with a torch, flash the light in a repeating pattern of three short flashes, three long flashes, and three short flashes.

Medical Requirements

All runners declare medical information during registration.

During race checks, you must present:

• an original medical certificate

• a resting ECG

Failure to provide these documents results in disqualification, though emergency testing may be available on site for a €200 fee.

Medical staff specialise in sports and tropical medicine and operate throughout the race.

They also have the authority to withdraw any runner deemed medically unfit to continue.

The Stages

The 2026 race covers approximately 270 kilometres +/- across the Sahara. Total elevation gain will be around 2500m +/-

Confirmed distances will be in the road book, anticipate the following +/- km’s.

Stages include:

• Stage 1: 37 km

• Stage 2: 41 km

• Stage 3: 29 km

• Stage 4: 100 km (You have two days to complete this stage.)

• Stage 5: 42 km

• Stage 6: 21 km

To complete the race properly, runners must carry enough food to provide at least 14,000 calories. Remember, this is the minimum, you may well need more than this, so, balance calorie requirement and weight carefully.

The runner is self-sufficient and must carry ALL they need for the whole race, water the only exception.

After Each Stage

Once you reach the bivouac again, recovery begins immediately. You will receive a 5ltr water allocation which must last to CP1 the next day. Stage 4 an exception due to the rest day where extra water will be allocated.

Start with a recovery drink before preparing food.

Important – take off your shoes and socks right away. Let your feet breathe and inspect them carefully while you are waiting for water to boil or, you are waiting for a meal to hydrate.

Eat a meal within 1-hour of finishing the stage.

Changing into clean or warmer clothing can make a huge difference. It allows running gear to dry and gives a mental reset for the next day. However, you also need to balance weight – keep ‘extras’ to an absolute minimum.

Sleep and rest is another priority. A sleeping mat helps enormously for rest, relaxation and sleep comfort. Your sleeping bag must be light but warm enough for desert nights. We are all different, so know what you need.

Be meticulous with your gear. Eight runners share each tent, and it can quickly become cluttered. Keep your bag packed and store items immediately after using them. Desert winds or sudden sandstorms can easily carry equipment away, especially lightweight items like sleeping mats.

A Buff around your neck is invaluable. It lets you cover your nose, mouth, eyes, and ears quickly when conditions change.

Many tent groups also create a simple cooking area using stones and small branches for fire. Often the first runner back begins preparing the cooking area for everyone else.

Over time, these small routines become part of the experience.

And the bivouac itself becomes something special.

You will share the tent with people from all over the world. You will go through highs and lows together. Some moments will be difficult. Others unforgettable.

Many runners say the friendships formed here last a lifetime.

That is the spirit of Marathon des Sables.

After the Finish on Stage 6

Cross the finish line of the final stage and you will receive your medal, water allocation, and a packed lunch.

Then you board a bus back to Ouarzazate. Buses leave as soon as they are full, so, no need to hang around and wait for ages.

The bus will take you to your specific hotel and your luggage will be waiting at your hotel.

What comes next is simple but glorious:

a shower…
then another shower…
and maybe one more.
Clean clothes.
A real bed.
A proper meal.

The following day is free to relax and explore. Remember the MDS shop! Later in the afternoon there is a dinner, awards ceremony, and celebration party.

After that, the journey home begins.

But the memories of the desert tend to stay with you far longer.

MDS WEBSITE HERE

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

The MDS Tour starts in January and moves from location to location, Register HERE

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Running Races Aren’t Cheap. And That’s the Reality We Need to Accept.

Posted on March 14, 2026 by talkultra

There’s a long-standing idea in the running community that races should be cheap. The logic is simple: running itself is simple. Put on a pair of shoes, head outside, and run. So when people see an entry fee for a trail, mountain, or ultra race that feels high, the reaction is often the same.

Why does it cost so much?

The truth is that the world those expectations came from barely exists anymore. Years ago, many races were small and local. They were often organised by running clubs or small community groups. The courses were modest. The participant numbers were manageable. Volunteers handled most of the work. Costs were relatively low, and so were entry fees.

Those races still exist in places, but the sport around them has changed dramatically. Trail running, ultrarunning, mountain racing and skyrunning have exploded in popularity. Courses have become longer, more remote and more technical. Participant numbers have increased. Expectations have risen. And alongside that growth has come something unavoidable: responsibility.

Modern race organisation carries real obligations.

If you put hundreds of runners into remote terrain, often in extreme weather and over difficult ground, you cannot simply mark a course and hope for the best. Safety is not optional anymore. It’s a requirement.

That means medical teams. It means coordination with mountain rescue. It means risk assessments, insurance, emergency plans and communications systems. It means trained marshals, sweep teams, and logistics that can respond quickly when something goes wrong.

All of this costs money.

Then there are the physical elements of the race itself. Start and finish areas. Timing systems. Course marking. Aid stations. Equipment transport. Permits. Land access. Environmental management. Insurance. Staffing.

Even a single-day race can involve months of preparation. Often a full year of planning. And that’s before considering the scale of many modern events.

Large trail races now operate almost like temporary cities. Hundreds or thousands of runners, staff and volunteers moving through remote areas across dozens or even hundreds of kilometres. Everything must work. Everything must be safe. None of that is inexpensive.

Now consider multi-day events.

Races like the Marathon des Sables or the Dragon’s Back Race take the complexity of a one-day race and multiply it several times over and then add some! Every additional day means more logistics, more transport, more staff, more food, more safety coverage, more accommodation, more contingency planning.

A week-long mountain race is not just a race repeated seven times. It is an expedition with hundreds of participants. Costs scale quickly. And with that scale comes risk, financial risk.

Race organizer’s carry it all – permits, deposits, infrastructure, insurance, tracking, staff contracts, transport bookings, equipment hire, maybe even helicopter cover – most of these costs are committed long before the first runner even registers.

Running races today are not informal club gatherings. They are businesses. That does not mean organisers are making huge profits. In many cases, margins are incredibly tight. Weather can disrupt events. Participation numbers can fluctuate. A single cancellation can create massive financial losses.

Which brings recent events into focus.

The closure of Ourea Events surprised many runners. Their races, including the Dragon’s Back Race and the Cape Wrath Ultra, were often described as expensive. But when you actually look at what those races involved, the pricing begins to make sense.

Multi-day racing across remote mountains with extensive safety systems, complex logistics, transport of participants and equipment across long distances with camps, food, communications and medical support – this is expensive.

Events like that are extraordinarily complicated to deliver safely. Perhaps the bigger question is not whether those races were expensive. Perhaps the question is whether they were ever truly priced to reflect what they actually cost.

There is often an expectation that race organisers should keep entry fees low, almost as if races are a community service rather than a professional undertaking. But if you organise a race today, especially in remote or mountainous terrain, you are operating a business – you have to be. No business can survive if it consistently prices its product below its true cost.

The running community may need to confront an uncomfortable reality. If we want well-organised, safe, professionally run events with excellent logistics, that comes at a price.

If we want medical coverage in remote mountains, that costs money. If we want reliable course marking, well-stocked aid stations, experienced crews, proper safety oversight and seamless logistics, that costs money too.

None of it appears out of thin air.

Of course, no one is forced to enter a race. And that’s an important point. If a race entry fee feels too high, the trails are still there. The mountains are still there. You can run the same paths any day of the week for free.

But if we choose to participate in organised races, especially the kind that now define modern trail and ultrarunning, we need to understand what it actually takes to create them.

Behind every start line is a year of planning. Behind every finish line is a huge operational effort. And behind every race number is a long list of people, equipment, safety systems and infrastructure working to make sure runners get through the experience safely.

Running may be simple.

Organizing a race no longer is.

And perhaps it’s time the community fully recognized that.

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OUREA EVENTS CEASE TRADING – A SAD DAY

Posted on March 13, 2026 by talkultra

The news that Ourea Events has ceased trading lands heavily on the UK mountain and ultra running community. For many of us, this isn’t just the loss of an event company. It feels like the closing of a chapter in the story of British mountain running.

Shane Ohly and his team didn’t just organise races. They shaped a culture.

At a time when the UK ultra scene was still finding its feet, Ourea created events that felt raw, adventurous, and deeply connected to the mountains. These were not simply races measured by split times and finish lines. They were journeys that asked something of you: navigation, resilience, judgement, and a willingness to be uncomfortable for long stretches of time.

The Dragons Back Race set the tone. For many runners it was their first taste of a true multi-day mountain expedition disguised as a race. Self-navigation with map and compass across the spine of Wales made it feel less like a sporting event and more like an adventure in the purest sense.

From there came a string of events that helped define a generation of UK mountain runners. The Great Lakeland 3 Day, Dark Mountains, the ROC Mountain Marathon and more. Each had its own character, but they all carried the same spirit: serious mountains, thoughtful course design, and an expectation that runners would meet the terrain on its terms.

Like many others, I was lucky enough to experience several of these events firsthand. I was there for the first Cape Wrath Ultra. I experienced the return of the Dragons Back. And the moment I’m perhaps most proud of was helping create the Glencoe Skyline as part of Skyrunning UK. That event in particular showed just how far the UK mountain running scene had evolved. Technical, spectacular, and unapologetically demanding, it placed Scottish ridgelines onto the world skyrunning map. We brought the world’s best to Scotland – Kilian Jornet, Emelie Forsberg, Katie Schide, Jasmin Paris, Jon Albon, Marco Degasperi, Henrietta Albon, Tove Alexanderson, Laura Orgue, Hillary Gerardi and the list goes on…. A who’s who of the mountain running world.

So the collapse of Ourea feels deeply personal to many of us.

But it also raises bigger questions.

The last few years have been brutal for independent race organisers. Covid wiped out entire seasons and left financial scars that many companies never fully recovered from. Brexit complicated logistics, staffing, and international participation. Costs across the board have risen sharply.

At the same time, the global trail running landscape has changed. The rise and dominance of UTMB has reshaped the market, pulling attention, sponsorship, and runners toward a global series model. For smaller, independent organisers, competing in that environment is incredibly difficult.

Ourea may have technically survived Covid and Brexit, but survival does not mean recovery. The damage done during those years can take a long time to surface, and sometimes the final collapse comes long after the initial shock.

Right now, the most immediate concern is for runners who have paid entry fees for 2026 events. Hopefully many will be protected through credit or debit card payments and able to recover funds through Section 75 or chargeback claims. But even if that is resolved, the bigger uncertainty remains.

What happens now?

What happens to the UK mountain running scene without one of its most creative organisers?

And what happens to the races themselves?

Events like the Dragons Back, Cape Wrath Ultra, and Glencoe Skyline are more than entries on a calendar. They have become part of the identity of British mountain running. They hold stories, ambitions, and personal milestones for thousands of runners.

In some ways, races are like mountain routes. They can outlive the people who first established them.

So perhaps the real question is whether these events can find new custodians. Whether another organiser can pick up the threads and carry them forward without losing what made them special in the first place. That balance between professionalism and wildness is fragile, and it was something Ourea managed remarkably well.

For now, though, it is simply a moment to pause and recognize what was built.

Many of the most memorable mountain running experiences in the UK over the past decade trace back to the vision and work of Shane Ohly and the Ourea team. They created races that pushed boundaries, respected the mountains, and inspired a generation of runners to go further than they thought possible.

Whatever happens next for these events, that legacy will remain.

And for those of us who stood on start lines in Wales, the Lakes, the Highlands, or deep in the night at Dark Mountains, the memories will always be there.

Follow Ian Corless

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COUNTDOWN TO MDS LEGENDARY 2026 – ISSUE TWO

Posted on March 9, 2026 by talkultra

Marathon des Sables: What Actually Matters

The Marathon des Sables has a way of becoming far more complicated than it needs to be. Spend five minutes online and you’ll find spreadsheets, gear breakdowns to the gram, and endless debates about socks.

Here’s the truth. It’s a multi-day race in the desert where you carry your own kit, manage your energy, and keep moving forward. That’s it.

Yes, details matter. But simplicity wins.

The 2026 Marathon des Sables – The Legendary is not just another year in the desert. It marks 40 years of the race. That alone tells you something about what’s coming. This edition matters. It will be longer, tougher, and built to celebrate the history of the event properly.

As we move through March, I will release weekly articles to help you sharpen your preparation. This is the second of four. The aim here is simple: give you clarity. No surprises. No guesswork.

Below is a broader, more grounded take on what to focus on, including some of the small, often overlooked realities that make a big difference once you’re out there.

Start With This Mindset

You are not preparing for comfort. You are preparing for control.

Control of your energy.

Control of your hydration.

Control of your thoughts when things get hard.

The desert strips away noise. What’s left is you, your pack, and the next checkpoint.

1. Your Pack: Fit Over Fashion

You’ll see a lot of the same packs on the start line. The WAA 20L Ultra Bag is extremely common because it was built specifically for races like this.

But popular doesn’t mean perfect.

A pack should sit close to your body without bouncing. It shouldn’t pull on your shoulders or rub your lower back raw by day three. Try it loaded. Walk in it. Run dunes in it if you can.

Smaller is usually better. If you give yourself space, you’ll fill it. And once your food weight drops midweek, too much space means constant shifting and irritation.

Getting close to the 6.5 kg minimum isn’t about ego. It’s about reducing cumulative fatigue. Every unnecessary gram is lifted thousands of times over the week.

2. Sleep Is Recovery, Not Luxury

You don’t need a five-star sleep system. But you do need rest.

A sleeping bag choice should reflect how you actually sleep at home. If you’re always cold, don’t suddenly become brave in the Sahara. Cold nights drain energy quickly.

A lightweight down jacket is incredibly useful. Brands like Mont Bell, Haglöfs, Yeti, and Nordisk all make reliable options. It doubles as camp insulation and extra warmth inside your bag.

Random but important: cover your head at night. Even a simple buff makes a difference.

And yes, take a sleeping mat. After several hours in the heat, lying on hard ground feels far less heroic than it sounds.

3. Clothing: Function Only

Nobody cares what you look like by stage four.

Choose clothing you’ve already trained in. Check underarms, inner thighs, lower back, and anywhere straps sit. If something rubs slightly at home, it will tear skin in the desert.

A spare pair of socks is wise. Changing into dry socks after a long stage feels surprisingly restorative.

Some runners like having a lightweight long sleeve or leggings just for evenings. It’s less about warmth and more about feeling human again after a tough day.

4. Shoes and Gaiters: Non-Negotiable

Shoes must be tested, broken in, and reliable.

Slightly wider can help accommodate swelling. But oversized shoes create movement. Movement creates friction. Friction creates blisters.

Aim for a thumbnail’s space beyond your longest toe.

Gaiters are essential. Sand will find its way in otherwise, and constant grit inside your shoe is demoralising.

Small thought: practise emptying sand quickly and calmly. You’ll do it often.

5. Food: Think Beyond Calories

Yes, you must carry at least 2,000 calories per day.

But calories alone aren’t the whole story. Appetite changes. Sweet fatigue is real. By midweek, many runners crave savoury food.

Bring variety. Something crunchy. Something salty. Something soft. Texture matters when you’re exhausted.

Recovery nutrition right after each stage can speed up how you feel the next morning. Even a small protein-based drink helps.

Also consider practicality. If you skip a stove, make sure your meals work with cold water. And if you’re someone who needs coffee to function, plan for it. Tiny comforts can have a big psychological impact.

6. Water Strategy: Be Flexible

You must be able to carry at least 1.5 litres, usually via two 750 ml front bottles.

Soft flasks and bladders are lighter, but they can puncture. Rigid bottles are heavier but durable.

Have the capacity to carry an additional 1.5 litres if required. In extreme heat or on longer stages, the race has sometimes increased water allowances.

Practice drinking steadily rather than chugging. Drink to thirst before the race starts. Overhydrating early doesn’t help.

7. Salt and Electrolytes: Plan It Yourself

Salt tablets are no longer handed out.

You must start with 14 stock cubes as part of the requirements, but that’s just one element. Test your electrolyte strategy in training. Don’t experiment for the first time in Morocco.

Cramps in the middle of a long stage are not where you want surprises.

8. Your Feet: Your Entire World

If your feet fail, your race fails.

Trim nails carefully before the event. Know which socks work for you. Consider taping strategies only if you’ve tested them.

After each stage:

Remove shoes immediately.
Clean sand off.
Let skin dry.
Deal with hot spots early.

Blister management is part of the race. The medical team is experienced, but prevention is always easier than repair.

9. Heat Preparation

The final two weeks are ideal for heat acclimation.

Sauna sessions. Hot baths. Controlled heat chamber work. Even Bikram yoga.

The goal isn’t to exhaust yourself. It’s to teach your body to manage elevated core temperature more efficiently.

Arriving heat-adapted reduces stress from day one.

10. Taper Properly

In the final weeks, you don’t gain fitness. You protect it.

Reduce volume gradually. Stay mobile. Stay healthy. Combine tapering with heat work.

You want to feel slightly restless at the start line, not tired.

11. Learn to Walk Well

This surprises many first-timers.

You may not run as much as you think. Dunes, heat, pack weight, and long stages change expectations quickly.

Practice strong, efficient walking. Especially uphill. Keep posture tall. Use arms deliberately.

Fast walking wins time and saves energy.

12. Poles: Train With Them or Leave Them

Poles can feel like four-wheel drive in soft sand and on climbs.

Lightweight folding carbon poles from brands like Black Diamond and Leki are common.

But poles only help if you’ve trained with them. Poor technique wastes energy. Good technique saves it.

13. Keep Equipment Minimal

Every “just in case” item adds up.

Ask: will this meaningfully improve my race?

Your pack should sit close to 6.5 kg. The only luxury many runners truly appreciate is a lightweight way to listen to music.

Interestingly, many also discover they don’t miss their phone at all.

14. Tent Life

You’ll share a tent with seven others.

These people become your support system. You’ll hear their breathing at night. You’ll see their low moments and your own reflected back.

Choose tent mates wisely if you can. The camaraderie becomes one of the most powerful parts of the week.

15. Travel and Admin Realities

Wear your running shoes and kit on the plane. Carry your pack as ‘carry-on’ with as much of your race kit as possibe. Lost luggage does happen.

Bring your own snacks for travel days. The transfer from Marrakech is quite long, so is the transfer to bivouac one. MDS do provide lunch packs as and when applicable, always good to be self sufficient.

The first two nights in bivouac are self-sufficient, plan accordingly for food. Take comfort items you’re happy to give away before racing begins, for example, you may take a larger/ heavier inflatable bed.

Admin day can take 1-2 hours. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, even an umbrella for shade. Stay patient.

Have additional items such as a base layer, sleeping bag liner and other items that may be on a ‘question’ list for the race. On night 1 and before you go to admin, you can make final decisions of what to and what not to take. Particularly important if you think you may be cold at night.

After bag check-in, you drop your luggage and no longer have access to extra gear. Make sure you have everything you need for the race! But full self-sufficiency only begins when the race starts, so you can enjoy small comforts until then.

Bring a simple repair kit. Zips break. Gaiters tear. The desert is unforgiving.

16. The Mental Game

At some point, you will question why you signed up.

That moment passes.

The Marathon des Sables isn’t just about endurance. It’s about staying calm when you’re tired. Staying steady when others surge. Accepting discomfort without drama.

Highs and lows are part of the rhythm. If it were easy, it wouldn’t matter.

Final Thought

The desert simplifies everything.

There’s no clutter. No constant notifications. No daily noise. Just sun, sand, wind, and the quiet focus of moving forward.

Whether you finish near the front or close to the cutoff, the experience is transformative.

It reminds you how little you actually need, and how much you’re capable of carrying.

MDS is a hark back to a more primitive time, a time without clutter and modern technology. Embrace this. Embrace the silence of the surroundings and the simplicity of placing one foot in front of the other.

MDS WEBSITE HERE

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

The MDS Tour starts in January and moves from location to location, Register HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

COUNTDOWN TO MDS LEGENDARY 2026 – ISSUE ONE

Posted on March 2, 2026 by talkultra

As we move through March, I will release weekly articles to help you sharpen your preparation. This is the first of four. The aim here is simple: give you clarity. No surprises. No guesswork.

The Shape of the 2026 Race

If you raced in 2025, you already experienced the longest edition in MDS history. In 2026, the format stays similar but the distance increases again.

Six stages. Seven days. All timed.

In previous years, the charity stage was not timed. That changed in 2025 and continues in 2026. Every stage now counts.

The long stage returns to Stage 4, just as it did in 2025. This time it will be 100km. Read that again. One hundred kilometres across two days in the desert.

While total distance has fluctuated over the years, 250km has often been the benchmark. For 2026, you should plan for approximately 270km plus or minus. It should not shock you. But it will test you.

One positive? Depending on how quickly you complete the long stage, you may have almost a full day and night to recover before Stages 5 and 6. That recovery window could be valuable.

Daily stage distances are rarely confirmed in advance. It remains unclear whether exact distances will be released before arrival in Morocco. Historically, that information is kept quiet. Still, it’s not hard to estimate how the race could look.

A likely outline might be:

Stage 1: 32km (Day 1) – total 32km

Stage 2: 38km (Day 2) – total 70km

Stage 3: 36km (Day 3) – total 106km

Stage 4: 100km (Days 4 and 5) – total 206km

Stage 5: 42km (Day 6) – total 248km

Stage 6: 21km (Day 7) – total 269km

Total: approximately 269km +/-

As in 2025, expect sand. A lot of it. Expect the Merzouga Dunes. Do not expect Djebel El Otfal.

You now have a working template to mentally prepare for the challenge ahead.

Before the Race Even Starts

Your race does not begin at the start line. It begins with logistics.

In the final 2 to 3 weeks before the race, taper training back so that you are fresh and strong. Also plan for heat adaptation, this could be specific heat chamber sessions or a series of sauna sessions or similar.

You are responsible for arranging your own accommodation before the official transfer from Ouarzazate to bivouac one. If you fly into Marrakech, you may need a hotel there as well. There are free transfer buses from Marrakech to Ouarzazate. Arrive in Ouarzazate at least one day before required, have a good hotel night and time to relax and prepare before the transfer to the desert. MDS will confirm the dates and times for transfers etc.

From there, the structure usually follows this pattern:

Day 1 – Bus transfer from Ouarzazate to the desert bivouac. You settle in and stay overnight. This is self-sufficient. No meals are provided. Bring enough food for arrival day and admin day. There is no weight restriction at this point, so bring what you want.

Day 2 – Technical, administrative, and medical checks. Overnight in bivouac, still self-sufficient.

Day 3 – Stage 1

Day 4 – Stage 2

Day 5 – Stage 3

Days 6 and 7 – Stage 4, the 100km long stage

Day 8 – Stage 5

Day 9 – Stage 6, medal at the finish, bus transfer back to Ouarzazate. Overnight hotel with half-board.

Day 10 – Free day in Ouarzazate, awards ceremony and gala evening. Hotel half-board.

Day 11 – Airport transfers. End of the adventure.

Bivouac Reality

From the moment you step into the bivouac, you are self-sufficient. Water is provided. Everything else is your responsibility.

You must bring food and drink to cover arrival day and admin day before racing begins. You do not carry this food during the race, so be smart. Bring proper meals. Rachid, for example, makes a Tagine in camp.

You also have access to your luggage before admin checks. This is valuable. Bring spare kit, extra layers, backup options. You can fine tune your equipment in real desert conditions.

And do not assume MDS = heat. In 2025, we had rain, strong winds and sand storms.

Recent editions have shown how unpredictable conditions can be. The October MDS 120 Morocco race in 2024 saw rain and flooding. The Atlantic Coast edition had extreme wind, cold temperatures and rain. The desert is not always hot and dry. Prepare for variation.

Before admin, you can adjust your race pack. After that, your pack must meet regulations:

Minimum weight: 6.5kg excluding 1.5 lts of water.

Minimum food: 2000 calories per day.

All mandatory kit must be present.

No exceptions.

Water Strategy Has Changed

Since 2024, water provision has evolved.

Once Stage 1 begins, water during stages is effectively unlimited. You are no longer handed sealed 1.5L bottles at checkpoints. Instead, volunteers in blue coats pour water from large containers into your bottles.

If you stand at a checkpoint and drink a full bottle, they refill it.

Typically, checkpoints are spaced around 10km apart, terrain permitting. However, if conditions demand it, additional water stations may be placed between checkpoints, for example at 5km. This flexibility is important to combat excessive heat.

For the long stage, there may be a requirement to carry additional water capacity. This could be supplied in a 1.5L bottle. Plan ahead. Either have spare capacity to decant, or a system to carry a full bottle.

After each stage, water is rationed. You receive one 5L bottle. That 5L must cover:

Post-stage hydration
Dinner preparation
Breakfast preparation
Water allocation to CP1 the next day

If you want to wash, that also comes from the same 5L. Prioritize drinking and eating. Washing is optional. Hydration is not.

Salt Is Now Non-Negotiable

The race rules require 14 broth cubes. They are salty and mandatory.

In 2024, this change was questioned. By the end of the race, feedback was largely positive.

Not all cubes dissolve well. Test them. Many athletes use ‘Knorr’ because it dissolves reliably. Build a salt replacement strategy that works for you. This is a self-sufficient race. You must manage your own electrolyte plan.

Feet: The Deciding Factor

Along with dehydration, damaged feet are one of the main reasons people do not finish.

Your shoes must fit correctly. Your socks must suit you. You must know how to treat hot spots and blisters. Desert sand magnifies small problems quickly.

Ignore your feet at your peril.

Advice – A thumb nail of space above your longest toe is ideal. Note, I say longest toe – this may not be your big toe! A wider shoe is a good idea to allow for toe splay. If a shoe is too big, your foot will move when walking or running. A moving foot causes friction, friction means blisters.

Make sure your shoes have gaiters so no sand can get in the shoe.

Safety on Course

The race operates under strict safety protocols.

Fast response buggies are positioned to access difficult terrain quickly. 4×4 vehicles are spread across the course.

Every runner carries a tracker attached to their pack. This allows the organization to monitor your position in real time. It includes an emergency button for immediate assistance.

There are also medical runners on course. These are trained medical professionals competing in the race. They wear a different colour race number so you can identify them. They can provide immediate care if necessary. In addition, the full medical team is equipped to respond anywhere in the desert.

During stages, water is not rationed. If you need more, you can have it. At key checkpoints, iced water is available for cooling and is poured over your head by blue coat volunteers. Orange jackets manage medical incidents.

Mandatory Equipment Means Mandatory

You must carry:

Pack such as WAA Ultra Bag 20L
Minimum 1.5L water capacity
Sleeping bag
Head torch plus spare batteries (charger or solar charger allowed)
10 safety pins
Compass with 1–2 degree precision
Lighter
Whistle
Knife
Topical disinfectant
Signal mirror
Survival blanket
14 broth cubes
Sun cream
200 euros or 2000 dirhams
Passport or ID card
Original ECG document and medical certificate
Roadbook (provided on arrival)
GPS tracker

Pay close attention to deadlines and rules for ECG and medical forms. The regulations are strict.

Calories: The Real Numbers

The rules require 2000 calories per day across six stages. That equals 12,000 calories minimum to comply.

However, with the rest period during the long stage, 14,000 calories is a more realistic minimum. You may carry more. For example, a small and slight women weighing 50kg has very different calorie needs to a tall, muscular 90kg male. Understand your calorie needs.

You must be able to prove calorie totals. If you repackage food into lighter containers, keep the nutritional labels.

To break it down clearly:

Stage 1 – 14,000 calories remaining

Stage 2 – 12,000 calories remaining

Stage 3 – 10,000 calories remaining

Stage 4 – 8,000 calories remaining (long stage)

Day 5 – 6,000 calories remaining (rest day, still requires 2000 calories)

Stage 5 – 4,000 calories remaining

Stage 6 – 2,000 calories remaining

On Day 5, you may still be moving during the long stage or recovering in camp, but you still require 2000 calories. On Stage 6, you technically only need breakfast and race snacks.

Essential Personal Kit

Beyond mandatory equipment and food, you will need:

Running top, possibly long sleeve
Neck roll or Buff
Running shorts or skirt
Socks, and spare pair
Shoes with gaiters, Velcro sewn securely in advance
Hat with potential neck cover
Sunglasses with strong protection and good fit for sandstorms or take extra goggles
Watch
Warm layer – windproof and possibly lightweight down jacket
Foot care supplies
Hygiene products
Toilet roll or wipes
Lip balm
Blindfold
Ear plugs
Spoon
Pot or bowl
Stove
Fuel cubes
Sleeping mat
Pillow
Flip flops or similar

Note – If you plan to NOT heat water, you will not need a stove of fuel cubes. However, you will still need a bowl or something similar to eat food from.

For repairs, consider:

Zip ties
Gorilla tape
Super glue
Sewing kit
Cord or thin rope

Equipment can fail. Plan for that.

Final Practical Advice

Keep your pack as close to 6.5kg as possible. Extra weight adds unnecessary stress, especially in the longest edition to date with a 100km long stage.

Limit luxuries. If you take one, make it a lightweight MP3 player with reliable battery and earphones.

Accept the conditions. You may not wash. You will get dirty. You will smell. That is normal

Start conservatively. Ease into the race.

Poles can make a huge difference, but only if you know how to use them properly. Front runners may not need them. Most people benefit from them.

Learn to walk efficiently. Many arrive expecting to run 80 percent and walk 20 percent. In reality, it is often reversed.

Protect your feet from day one.

Take a sleeping mat. In the desert, your job is simple: run, eat, sleep. Good sleep improves recovery. Recovery keeps you in the race.

MDS WEBSITE HERE

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

The MDS Tour starts in January and moves from location to location, Register HERE

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

THE COASTAL CHALLENGE 2027 – ENTRIES OPEN

Posted on March 1, 2026 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge – February 13th to February 20th, 2027

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica is a six-stage, six-day race along Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline. It’s tough, humid, beautiful, and unpredictable in the best possible way. You’ll run through rainforest trails, cross rivers, climb steep hills, and move along stretches of tropical beach where the ocean feels close enough to touch.

This is not a single-day effort. It’s a week of managing energy, staying consistent, and adapting to changing terrain. Some days feel fast and flowing. Others demand patience and grit. By the time you reach the final stage, you’ll have covered ground that most visitors never see.

Two Race Options: Expedition and Adventure

You can choose between two distances: Expedition and Adventure. Both events run over the same six days and share the same start and finish week. Stages 1 and 6 are almost identical for both races, so everyone begins and ends the journey together.

The difference lies in Stages 2, 3, 4, and 5.

The Expedition race is the full challenge. Longer stages, greater cumulative distance, and a bigger daily physical demand. It’s designed for experienced endurance runners who want the complete test.

The Adventure race offers considerably shorter stages on days 2 through 5. That adjustment makes the event accessible to a much wider range of participants. It’s ideal for runners who prefer a steadier pace, and especially for those who plan to hike or walk sections of the course.

‘Adventure gives the best of both worlds, I got to race in Costa Rica and see the awesome trails, views and terrain, but I also got more time to relax and enjoy camp and the Pura Vida lifestyle.’ – Abelone Lyng

Adventure doesn’t mean easy. The terrain and climate are the same. But the shorter distances allow more time for rest, recovery, and simply taking in the surroundings. You’ll have space to soak up the Pura Vida lifestyle, connect with other runners, and enjoy the unique atmosphere that makes this race special.

Whether you choose Expedition or Adventure, you’ll experience the same wild coastline, the same supportive race community, and the same sense of achievement at the finish.

Ready to Sign Up?

The 2027 race entry is $3,050.

Using the link below, Ian Corless is able to offer a $200 discount, bringing your entry down to $2,850.

REGISTER HERE

If you’ve been thinking about a multi-day race but weren’t sure which one, this is a strong place to start. Six days. A world-class course. Two distance options that make the challenge accessible without losing its edge.

We’ll see you on the start line in February 2027.

More reading

THE COASTAL CHALLENGE COSTA RICA : A 2026 PERSPECTIVE ON ONE OF THE WORLDS TOUGHEST RACES – HERE

You can read daily summaries from the 2026 edition HERE

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 6

Posted on February 13, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 6 of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica was always going to be special. It wasn’t just another race day. It was the closing chapter for the Adventure and Expedition categories. A loop that began and ended in the wild beauty of Corcovado and Bahía Drake. A day of waterfalls, gravel roads, jungle trails, river crossings, single track, beaches, and some of the most stunning light the Pacific coast can offer.

For many runners, this stage wasn’t only about time. It was about finishing what they started days ago. It was about earning the medal. It was about emotion.

The route delivered everything Costa Rica promises. Thick jungle that swallowed sound and forced focus. Gravel roads that tested tired legs. Technical single track winding through roots and rock.

River crossings that cooled sore muscles for a brief moment. Beaches that stretched endlessly under a rising sun. Waterfalls tucked deep in green corridors. Every turn seemed to offer another view, another reason to pause, another reminder of how far everyone had come.

And the light. Early morning gold over the ocean. Sun filtering through canopy leaves. The kind of light that makes even exhausted runners smile.

At the front of the Expedition men’s race, Alejandro Muñoz (#1) delivered a commanding performance, crossing the line in 3:54:46.1 to take the Stage 6 win. He ran with control and strength, managing the varied terrain with precision.

Martin Alonso Mena Jimenez secured second in 4:21:29.0, followed closely by Jon Shield in 4:22:43.9. Both men pushed hard through the jungle and across the beaches, knowing every minute mattered on this final day.

But while Stage 6 had its winners, the greater story in Expedition belonged to Erick Agüero.

After eight participations in The Coastal Challenge, Erick Agüero finally claimed the overall Expedition title. Eight times he stood on the start line. Eight journeys through heat, humidity, hills, rivers, and long lonely stretches of trail. Eight times chasing the dream.

And this year, he did it.

At the finish line there were tears. Real ones. The kind that come from years of effort, setbacks, persistence, and belief. You could see the weight lift from his shoulders as he crossed under the arch. Joy mixed with relief. Pride mixed with exhaustion. Winning after one attempt is impressive. Winning after eight shows something deeper. Commitment. Patience. Heart.It was one of those moments that reminds everyone why this race matters.

Denise Zelaya led the Expedition women home on Stage 6 in 4:24:35.1. She ran strong and steady, handling the technical sections with confidence and finishing her week on a high note.

Janina Beck followed in 5:11:18.6, while Floribeth Pérez (#38) completed the podium in 6:27:05.8. Each of them faced the same rugged loop and found their own way through it.

For the women’s field, the final stage was about resilience. By this point in the week, everyone is carrying fatigue. Legs are heavy. Feet are tender. Yet they kept moving forward. Through river crossings. Along sunlit beaches. Into the final stretch.

There were hugs at the finish. Long embraces. Shared smiles. The understanding that something meaningful had just been completed.

The Adventure category also closed its journey on Stage 6, and the racing at the front was sharp.

Sammy Francis (#35) took the stage win in an impressive 3:49:24.0, the fastest Adventure male time of the day. He attacked the course with confidence and made the most of the gravel roads and flowing single track.

Emerson Ulloa Avila (#61) finished second in 4:25:00.7, with Roberto Solano Rivera (#60) taking third in 4:32:05.3. All three demonstrated how much strength remains even at the end of a multi-day challenge.

But beyond podium places, the Adventure field showed something just as powerful: joy. Runners crossing the final beach stretch with arms raised. Friends waiting at the line. The relief of knowing the journey was complete.

In the Adventure women’s race, Laura Zúñiga Alcázar claimed the Stage 6 win in 4:23:00.4 with a composed and determined effort.

Behind her, Toni Clarke and Kristel Polet (#34) finished in an exact tie at 4:26:27.0. A rare and beautiful result. Two athletes, side by side on the final day, sharing the moment.

That image said a lot about this race. It is competitive, yes. But it is also shared. Shared struggle. Shared laughter. Shared relief.

Stage 6 is always emotional. It marks the end of something intense and rare. Days of running through one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Corcovado’s wild heart. The raw coastline of Bahía Drake. The rhythm of waves and jungle birds.

This final loop captures everything the Coastal Challenge stands for. Variety in terrain. Beauty in every direction. Difficulty that forces growth. Moments that stay with you long after the medal is packed away.

The waterfalls cool the body. The jungle humbles you. The beaches test your patience. The gravel roads demand grit. The single track rewards focus. The water crossings refresh and surprise. And the views remind you why you signed up in the first place.

By the time runners reached the finish line on Stage 6, medals waiting, there was a mix of tears and laughter. Some sat quietly, absorbing it. Some embraced teammates. Some looked back toward the ocean.

Happiness doesn’t always arrive loudly. Sometimes it comes in a deep breath after days of effort. In the simple act of standing still after so much forward motion.

For the Adventure and Expedition categories, the journey is now complete. The miles are done. The jungle has been crossed. The beaches have been run.

And for Erick Agüero, after eight attempts, the dream has finally been realized.

Stage 6 wasn’t just the end of a race. It was the celebration of persistence, community, and the unforgettable experience of running through one of the most beautiful corners of the world. Medals were placed around tired necks. Eyes were wet. Smiles were wide.

The Coastal Challenge once again delivered more than a competition. It delivered a journey.

Expedition Overall Ranking

Erick Aguerro 31:46:30
Jesus Cerdas Padilla 32:58:06
Jon Shield 33:41:20

Denis Zelaya 36:54:34
Janina Beck 41:53:37
Floribeth Perez 47:36:05

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 5

Posted on February 12, 2026 by talkultra

The penultimate stage of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica led runners deep into one of the most biologically intense corners of the planet: the Osa Peninsula. Known locally as “The Paths of Osa,” the day was as much about immersion as it was about competition.

For Expedition runners, the route stretched 41 kilometers with 1,695 meters of climbing. The Adventure field faced 23 kilometers and 1,148 meters of ascent. On paper, those numbers were serious but manageable. On the ground, they unfolded across ferry crossings, fire roads, heavy jungle corridors, remote farms, and one unforgettable speedboat dash. The stage finished in the sweeping calm of Grandito Bay, where the rainforest spills toward the Pacific.

A River Crossing Into Another World, the day began not with a starting horn, but with a ferry ride across the Sierpe River.

Mist hung low over the mangroves. The Sierpe is one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in Central America, and at dawn it feels suspended in time. Runners stood quietly, some chatting, some conserving energy. It was a rare still moment in a multi-day race defined by heat, humidity, and relentless terrain.

Once across, the mood shifted. Fire roads opened the stage, dusty and exposed, climbing steadily away from the river basin. The surface was firm but unyielding, a reminder that even “runnable” terrain in Costa Rica comes with a cost.

The route threaded through working farmland before plunging into dense tropical forest.

Out in the open, heat built quickly. Cattle pastures and palm-lined tracks offered little shade. Then, almost abruptly, the jungle swallowed the trail.

Under canopy, the air thickened. Roots twisted across narrow singletrack. The climbs felt steeper than the elevation profile suggested. Every descent demanded attention. It was classic Osa terrain: alive, humid, and unapologetically raw.

For those at the front of the race, though, the pressure was different from earlier in the week. With overall standings largely secure barring mishap, this stage offered a rare mental exhale. Leaders could look up, take in the green walls around them, and run with composure rather than urgency.

Midway through the day came one of the most distinctive features of the event: the iconic speedboat crossing.

After hours of climbing and descending, runners boarded small boats that skimmed along the Pacific edge of the peninsula. Salt air replaced jungle humidity. The coastline unfurled in rocky points and quiet beaches. It was a logistical necessity, but it felt cinematic.

From there, the final approach led toward Grandito Bay, where the forest meets calm blue water. The finish line atmosphere carried a different tone from earlier, harsher stages. Relief mixed with quiet satisfaction. With one day remaining, the race picture was largely set.

In the Adventure men’s race, the day belonged to bib 35, Sammy Francis, who crossed in 4:07:57. He managed the terrain with confidence, balancing effort on the climbs and steady pacing through the jungle sections.

Roberto Solano (bib 60) followed in 4:51:46, while Alberto Gil (bib 48) secured third in 5:00:01. The gaps reflected not just speed, but careful navigation of the heat and elevation.

The women’s podium was tightly contested. Laura Zuñiga (bib 59) claimed the stage in 5:01:22, running a composed and consistent race. Just behind, Kristel Polet (bib 34) and Toni Clarke (bib 9) both stopped the clock at 5:08:01, sharing identical times after nearly five hours on course. On a day shaped by terrain rather than tactics, that symmetry felt fitting.

For Expedition runners, the added distance and climbing sharpened the challenge. Forty-one kilometers in Osa is not simply a long run. It is sustained exposure to gradient, heat, and technical trail.

Alejandro Muñoz set the benchmark, winning in 5:05:44. He held strong through the early climbs and maintained rhythm deep into the jungle sections. Erick Agüero (bib 57) followed in 5:17:22, while Jesus Cerdas (bib 64) completed the men’s podium in 5:34:57.

In the women’s Expedition race, Denise Zelaya (bib 16) led with a time of 6:11:05. Janina Beck (bib 53) finished in 6:53:21, and Floribeth Perez (bib 38) rounded out the podium in 8:00:49. Their performances reflected not only endurance but resilience across a stage that demanded constant adjustment to terrain and conditions.

What defined this stage was not just distance or ascent. It was context.

The Osa Peninsula is often described as one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Macaws arc overhead. Howler monkeys echo through the trees. The forest floor moves with insects and reptiles. Even seasoned trail runners find themselves looking up, momentarily distracted by the sheer density of life.

With overall victories nearly secure, race leaders could afford to ease slightly, to let the environment register. There is something rare about competing hard in a place that feels untouched. On this stage, performance and place were inseparable.

As runners gathered at Grandito Bay, shoes caked in mud and salt drying on their skin, the mood was steady and reflective. One more stage remained. But “The Paths of Osa” had delivered what the Coastal Challenge promises at its best: a demanding route set within a landscape that refuses to be ignored.

Times were recorded. Podiums were shaped. Yet long after the numbers fade, it will be the ferry across the Sierpe, the wall of jungle heat, and the rush of the speedboat toward the Pacific finish that define this penultimate day.

Race results https://www.webscorer.com/

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 4

Posted on February 11, 2026 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica pulled runners away from the coastline and into the high farmlands of the country’s interior. It was a bruising day, 37.7 kilometers with 2,613 meters of climbing for the Expedition category.

No hiding from it. The terrain rolled relentlessly, climbing and plunging through rough rural tracks and exposed hillsides before dropping toward the finish in Palma Norte. It was a stage built to test already tired legs, and it did exactly that.

Men’s Race

Erick Aguirre ran smart. With a solid overall lead, there was no need to take risks. He spent the day alongside Jesus Cerdas, the pair moving steadily across the harsh terrain. They crossed together in 6:05:43, controlled and composed.

Behind them, the real battle unfolded.

Jon Shield fought all day. For much of the stage he sat in fourth, but he never let the gap grow. Gradually he reeled in Martin Alonso Mena. The two arrived at the line almost inseparable after more than six and a half hours of racing. Shield edged it by just three seconds, 6:38:26 to 6:38:29. A long day decided by the smallest of margins.

Women’s Race

Denise Zelaya continues to run her own race. Calm, consistent, and completely dominant, she finished in 7:29, well clear of the field.

Janina Beck followed in 8:27, with Floribeth Perez completing the podium in 8:59. On a day that punished everyone, Zelaya once again showed control and strength.

Adventure Category

The Adventure course was shorter at 12 kilometers, but still far from easy. Sammy Francis ran solo again, crossing in 3:39:22 with another composed performance. In the women’s race, Laura Zuniga finished in 4:13:45, gaining more time on Toni Clark and steadily building her advantage.

*Please note – Adventure times need to deduct 1:49 from the times

With four stages complete, fatigue is real. The coastal humidity has been replaced by exposed climbs and rolling farmland. Every step now carries the weight of the days before.

The Boruca region of southern Costa Rica feels different from the postcard version of the country. This is not manicured resort coastline or dense jungle trails pressed flat by tourists. It is rural, working land, shaped as much by history as by weather.

The Boruca people, one of Costa Rica’s remaining Indigenous communities, have lived here for generations, known for their hand-carved masks and fiercely preserved traditions.

Around their villages the land rolls outward into open pasture and patchwork farmland, where cattle graze on steep green hills and small family plots cling to uneven slopes. The terrain is restless. Long climbs rise without rhythm, dirt roads bake under the sun, and sharp descents cut down into river crossings and humid low pockets before rising again.

It is a landscape that looks soft from a distance, all green folds and misty ridgelines, but up close it is rugged and unforgiving. The soil can be loose, the heat heavy, and the gradients relentless. In the high farmlands near Palma Norte, you move through open exposure rather than forest cover, feeling the scale of the land around you. It is beautiful, but it demands respect.