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/

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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 : A 2026 Perspective on One of the World’s Toughest Stage Races

Posted on February 3, 2026 by talkultra

Stage racing has a way of exposing everything. Fitness, patience, preparation, and mindset all get tested, not just by distance, but by what happens between the stages. Terrain is only part of the story. How you recover, rehydrate, eat, sleep, and reset day after day matters just as much.

Back in 2016, comparisons between The Coastal Challenge and Marathon des Sables were unavoidable. A decade on, those comparisons still come up, but the conversation has matured. These races now stand on their own terms.

Marathon des Sables strips runners back to survival basics: self-sufficiency, rationed water, shared bivouacs, and total responsibility for your own race. That’s its identity, and it’s why it remains iconic.

The Coastal Challenge is different. It’s not self-sufficient, but that doesn’t make it easier. In many ways, it’s more demanding. The Costa Rican rainforest, the coastline, the heat, the humidity, and the relentless terrain combine into something that feels far less predictable and far less forgiving.

What The Coastal Challenge Looks Like Today

The race remains a point-to-point journey across Costa Rica’s wild south-west, traditionally running from Quepos to Drake Bay, followed by a final loop stage in and around Corcovado National Park.

The format has remained consistent: six days, six stages, each with its own character. Distances and elevation are substantial, especially when you factor in heat, humidity, and terrain. There are some changes to the route and now, in 2026, I consider the route to be more challenging, especially with a longer stage 6.

Download the 2026 TCC Road Book HERE

Route Book TCC 2026 – ENG Download

Expedition Category

• Stage 1: 33km 1115m+

• Stage 2: 41km 1706m+

• Stage 3: 47.5km 1754m+ Long day

• Stage 4: 37.7km 2613m+ Most vertical

• Stage 5 41km 1685m+

• Stage 6: 35.9km 858m+

Total distance 236.1km’s with 9731m+

Gladly, there is an ADVENTURE category and while stage 1 and stage 2 are almost the same, the distances for stages 2, 3, 4 and 5 are notably shorter:

Stage 2: 16.8km 280m+
Stage 3: 15.2km 200m+
Stage 4: 12.5km 552m+
Stage 5: 23km 1117m+

Total distance 136.4km’s 3901m+

None of these numbers tell the full story. Beach running, river crossings, jungle trails, fire roads, steep climbs, and long descents all feature. Every day feels different. Every day asks something new.

NOTE: It is possible to move from EXPEDITION to ADVENTURE during the race, however, you will not receive a medal.

Is TCC Harder Than Marathon des Sables?

The honest answer is still: yes and no.

Where TCC Is Easier

• You are not self-sufficient. You carry only essentials during the stage.

• Aid stations provide water and basic food.

• Your main kit bag is transported daily.

• You sleep in your own tent.

• Food is provided morning, post-stage, and evening.

• Camps are often in stunning locations, sometimes with cold drinks available.

• You have space to recover properly each night.

• The long day is shorter in distance than MDS.

Where TCC Is Harder

• The terrain is relentlessly varied and often technical.

• Elevation gain and loss are constant and cumulative.

• Fire roads punish tired legs.

• Beach running is deceptively draining, both physically and mentally.

• Heat is relentless.

• Humidity regularly sits above 75%.

• Your feet are wet every single day.

• The long day may be “only” 47 km, but add 1754 m+ of vertical, technical trails, and jungle heat, and it becomes one of the hardest stages you’ll ever run.

This race doesn’t grind you down with deprivation. It wears you down with exposure.

Packing for Success in a Modern TCC

Because your kit is transported daily, you can afford to be comfortable. Waterproof storage remains essential. While the race still recommends Action Packer-style boxes, they’re awkward for international travel. Most experienced runners now opt for a robust waterproof duffel or roll-top bag, with internal dry bags for organisation.

You’re racing in a rainforest. Rain is not hypothetical.

Bring 6–8 full run kits. The system is simple and still works best:

• Run in one kit.

• Finish, shower, change.

• Sleep in the next day’s run kit.

Breathable fabrics are essential. Shoulder coverage matters more than people expect. Sun exposure combined with sweat and salt can destroy skin over six days. Hats are non-negotiable. Neck coverage is smart. Minimal strappy tops often look appealing but lead to brutal sunburn patterns.

Camp life is relaxing and simple, make sure you bring a sleeping mat and ideally a silk liner, a sleeping bag is not needed BUT it can get chilly around 2am to 5am. Additional camp clothing can be a nice break from run kit – for women thi scan be a loose dress, the the men, shorts and T. Flip flops or similar are essential.

Make sure you bring a plate, knife, fork and spoon and also a cup for drinks.

Shoes and Foot Care: The Deciding Factor

If runners fail at TCC, it’s usually due to feet or hydration.

Your feet will be wet every day. Rivers, streams, mud, ocean crossings. Add technical terrain, rocks, roots, and sand, and your feet take a beating.

Bring at least two pairs of trail shoes, ideally three. Some runners include a half-size-up “emergency pair” for swelling later in the race.

Forget blanket advice about sizing up. Shoes that are too big allow movement. Movement causes friction. Friction causes blisters. You need roughly a thumbnail’s space in front of the big toe, no more. Fit matters more than brand.

Your shoes must:

• Drain water efficiently

• Dry quickly

• Handle rock, mud, sand, and wet roots

• Match your gait, cushioning preference, and drop

Trail shoes are mandatory. Breathability is critical.

Socks matter just as much. A fresh pair every day is essential. Toe socks have proven exceptionally effective for many runners in these conditions.

Shoe recommendation is impossible, we are all unique, however, VJ Sport offer the best grip in the harsh terrain of Costa Rica – take a look at the VJ Ultra 3 HERE

What to Carry During the Stage

Compared to many stage races, your on-course kit is minimal.

A lightweight vest-style pack works best. Many runners now carry a bladder plus two bottles. Aid stations can be far apart, and dehydration happens fast.

Carry:

• First aid basics

• Whistle

• Phone (waterproofed)

• Cash

• Sunscreen

• Purification tablets (just in case) or a water filter.

• Personal nutrition

• Poles (optional, but useful)

If you use poles, they must fold, stow quickly, and be second nature to deploy. Practice with them before the race.

Heat, Hydration, and Survival

It’s hot. Always.

You’ll sweat within minutes of starting and continue all day. Hydration is constant, not reactive. Drink regularly, not just when thirsty. Electrolytes are personal. Know what works for you before arriving.

Never pass water without topping up.

Use the environment to your advantage. Rivers, streams, and pools are not obstacles, they are survival tools. Submerge fully whenever possible. Two or three minutes can reset your entire system.

Run in shade. Walk in sun. Cover your head and shoulders. Pour water over yourself often.

Practical Race Wisdom

• Day 1 starts fast and later than other days. Most people go out too hard. Many drop out here.

• From Day 2 onward, you start at sunrise. Use the cooler hours wisely.

• This is a technical race. Train for climbing and descending.

• Everyone walks. Learn to do it efficiently.

• The course is well marked, but fatigue makes mistakes easy. If you haven’t seen a marker in five minutes, stop and check. Use the GPX files on a watch.

• Wildlife surrounds you. You’ll hear far more than you’ll see.

• After each stage: shoes off, feet checked, flip-flops on immediately.

• Eat, hydrate, nap, elevate legs.

• Camps are social, but your tent is your reset space.

A Note for Female Runners

Practical comfort matters.

Light, non-run clothing for evenings makes a big difference. Sundresses or loose cotton work well. Flip-flops are essential, including for showers.

A two-piece swimsuit is useful for river or ocean bathing.

Sleep in run kit.

Don’t economise on sunscreen. Carry anti-chafe cream and reapply regularly. High humidity changes everything.

Avoid skorts. They hold water and add friction. Single-layer shorts or breathable tights work better.

Hair conditioner is not optional. Sachets pack well and don’t leak.

Leave rings at home. Swelling is real.

Waterproof zip-locks for cash and toilet paper are worth their weight.

Phones must be properly waterproofed or left behind for river-heavy sections.

Final Thoughts

The Coastal Challenge doesn’t pretend to be anything other than what it is: a hard, beautiful, immersive journey through one of the most demanding environments you’ll ever race in. It will challenge you. It will frustrate you. It will humble you. And if you arrive prepared, it will reward you in ways few races can.

Look up. Take it in. Accept the discomfort. Prepare well for heat, humidity, technical terrain, and recovery. Get your head right before you arrive. If you do that, the race doesn’t just become manageable. It becomes unforgettable.

Entries for The Coastal Challenge are HERE

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2025 – Stage 5

Posted on February 13, 2025 by talkultra

Nobody really expected more drama for stage 4 after the epic battle between Erick and Pierre. However, as darkness arrived, the heavens opened for a relentless downpour that lasted hours and hours. Camp was wiped out with flooded tents and countless runner’s seeking refuge in any shelter possible.

It made for a night of wet clothes, broken sleep and very tired bodies come the 0300 wake up call.

With a tough day ahead, many, looked less than happy at the prospect of 23 or 41km’s. Pierre Meslet summed it just with his look, he was exhausted and somewhat resigned to ‘getting through the day’ and saving it all for the last day.

An early crossing of the Sierpe river and the race was soon underway, gladly, Erick Aguero was running, albeit with his arm in a sling.

An incredible golden sunrise gave optimism to the day.

However, this optimism soon disappeared with the withdrawal of Erick. The pain was all too much and he emotionally took of his number and said goodbye to TCC2025.

Pierre was leading the race but the sight of Erick waiting at cp1 was all too much for him. The duo had an emotional exchange and with the lack of pressure from a great competitor, a very tired mind and body, Pierre took his foot of the gas and ran easy all the way to the finish.

Allan Barrielle and Sergio Turull took advantage of the situation and they ran hard to the line for a well deserved victory on the stage.

For the women, Katie Young once again dominated the day, but she was feeling the fatigue from a sleepless and exhaustive night.

Lucia Jarquin and Maria Jose Corrales once agin ran strong days to secure their respective 2nd and 3rd places.

The stage, for many, is a ‘real’ Costa Rica experience. Gravel roads interconnect rainforest, farms, the locals, wildlife and in the latter stages, the beach and ocean lead you to Drake Bay.

Tomorrow, the 6th and final stage is a victory loop that manages to compress the best of the previous 6-stages in one incredible course of rivers, waterfalls, farmland, beach, ocean and coasteering.

Race Results HERE

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The Coastal Challenge #TCC2024 Preview

Posted on February 4, 2024 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge 2024 is upon us. An event 20-years in the making, this will be a special year! A gruelling multi-stage race, participants will cover 240km’s with 10,000m+ of vertical over 6-stages. The ‘Adventure Run’ covers 145km’s.

An adventure for all, TCC is the ultimate experience and an incredible way to explore Costa Rica. Starting in Quepos, the journey follows the Pacific Coast backed by the Talamanca mountains as participants weave in and out of rainforest, navigate gravel roads, endure long stretches of beach with no shade and of course, climb, descend and scramble rocks, riverbeds and waterfalls. The journey concludes in the Unesco Heritage Site of Drake Bay, a truly remarkable location even for the well travelled.

What can the runners expect?

Stage 1

Runners depart San Jose early morning (around 0500) for a 3-hour drive to Playa Del Rey, Quepos. Arguably the toughest day of the race, not because of the terrain or distance, but because of the start time! It’s a day for caution! The 34.6km is very runnable with little vertical and technicality, it welcomes the runners to Costa Rica.

Stage 2

An early breakfast, around 0400, the race starts with the arrival of the sun! The only way is up from the start with a tough and challenging climb. It’s a tough day with an abundance of climbing and descending and a final tough flat stretch on the beach, just as the heat takes hold.

Stage 3

Tough with 25km of climbing topping out at 800m followed by a drop to sea and a final kick in the tail before the arrival at camp. For many, this is a key day and maybe one of the most spectacular.

Stage 4

A tough and steep climb to start, but once at 900m the route is a roller coaster of relentless small climbs and descents, often littered with technical sections, rain forest, river crossings and boulders. At 30km, it’s a short drop to the line and the finish at 37.1km.

Stage 5

The long day but what a beauty! Tweaked a couple of years ago and now has become iconic with tough trails, plenty of climbing, sandy beaches and yes, even a boat trip. The finish just before Drake Bay offers a calm relaxation with a stunning backdrop and amazing sunset.

Stage 6

The victory lap! For many, this stage is the most beautiful and memorable. It is now a longer day due to the start and finish not being in Drake Bay. However, the experience is not diminished. The loop manages to contain a little of all that has gone before.

“TCC is a unique race and one that we are passionate about. We celebrate 20-years in 2024 and that alone is an incredible achievement and one that we are proud of. The race travels via dense forest trails, river crossings, waterfalls, long stretches of golden beaches backed by palm trees, dusty access roads, high ridges and open expansive plains, we created this race to show of Costa Rica and this beautiful coastline.”

TCC is proud of the elite line-up that has experienced this magical multi-day journey.

Here is the past 10-years winners:

2023: Didrik Hermansen – Katie Schide
2022: Hayden Hawks – Giuditta Turini
2021: Timothy Olson – Felicitas Charpin
2020: Cody Lind – Kaytlyn Gerbin
2019: Pere Aurell Bove – Ida Nilsson*
2018: Tom Evans* – Ragna Debats
2017: Tom Owens – Anna Frost
2016: Iain Don-Wauchope – Ester Alvez
2015: Iain Don-Wauchope – Veronica Bravo
2014: Michael Wardian – Jo Meek
2013: Dave James – Gemma Slaughter

Course records: Tom Evans 21:44:12 and Ida Nilsson 23:36:04

Ones to watch in 2024

2020 champion, Cody Lind returns to celebrate 20-years of TCC. With past experience, he know what to expect from Costa Rica. His ability as skyrunner work well on the demanding and technical trails, in addition, his speed for pure running grounded at Western States (2021, 2022 and 2023) transfers well to the gravel roads and beaches that this route brings.

Cristofer Clemente, an experienced skyrunner and trail runner, he won the 2016 Syrunner World Series for the ultra distance and in 2017 he took a silver medal at the IAU Trail World Champs. He has recently won Tenerife Blue Trail, Ultramaraton Guatemala and Puerta Vallarta Mexico by UTMB. He is without doubt a hot contender for overall victory.

Pierre Meslet placed 6^th and 9^th at Marathon des Sables, so, is no stranger to multi-day running. TCC will provide a different challenge, while the racing is still over 6-days, this time there is no self-sufficiency, no carrying a pack, just intense heat and humidity.

From Costa Rica, we have Erick Aguero and Carlos Calvo. Erick is arguably one of the most experienced TCC competitors with countless participations and podium places.

Lina and Sanna El Kott Helander (the El Kott twins) are grounded in adventure racing, skyrunning and mountain running. They are an adventure duo that push boundaries. In 2023, they both undertook the PTL; a 300km journey during the UTMB week. The duo are perfectly matched for Costa Rica and the terrain and challenges on offer.

Ester Alves won TCC in 2016 and return this year with a contingent of runners from Portugal. I am sure Ester will say that she is in Costa Rica for the journey and experience in 2024. However, Experience, skill and ability is never lost.

Katie Young will be an unknown name to many, however, in 2023 she was my hot tip for Marathon des Sables and she proved me correct placing 6^th. TCC will be a new experience for Katie but watch this space…

Lindsey McElroy Ulrich from the USA joins the TCC party with a long list of ultra results that date back to 2014 on Ultrasignup. In 2022, Lindsey tackled the Marathon des Sables, so, she comes to Costa Rica with multi-day experience. No stranger to long distance, she was also 20^th at UTMB.

In addition to the above, we have a wealth of Costa Rican talent who will toe the line

Schedule:

February: Saturday 10th to Saturday 17th, 2024
Official registration & poolside reception for competitors in San José: February, Saturday 10th
Race start: February, Sunday 11th
Race finish: February, Friday 16th
Race length: 6 days
Distance: Expedition Run 240km | Adventure Run 145km
Event finish: February, Saturday 17th

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The Coastal Challenge 2023 #TCC2023 – Arrival in Costa Rica

Posted on February 4, 2023 by talkultra

Runner’s have arrived in San Jose, Costa Rica ahead of the 2023 edition which starts on Sunday February 5th.

Admin day, pre-race protocols and race briefing will soon be completed and then an early morning journey to Quepos and the start line of stage 1 awaits.

For 2023, the runner’s in both Expedition and Adventure categories will experience some new route changes and distances. Notably, the expedition category, on paper, appears to be a tougher race.

Stage 1 is always brutal as for many, the heat and humidity really takes a hold and exhausts the un-prepared body. In the past, this stage has hovered around the 30km mark, for 2023 it will be 41km with 1071m+ for the Expedition category.

Stage 2 40km and 1828m+
Stage 3 49km and 1884m+
Stage 4 35.5km and 2434m+
Stage 5 40.6km and 1670m+
and the final stage 6 35.7km and 875m+

This makes a total 0f 241.8km and 9762m+.

For the shorter Adventure race, unlike in past editions, stage 1 will be shorter than the expedition at 32km.

Stage 2 17km
Stage 3 16.5km
Stage 4 12.5km
Stage 5 22.3km
Stage 6 35.7km

The Adventure race totals 136km with 4032m+.

With an International line-up, all eyes will be on the front of the race with a stellar male and female line-up.

For the men:

Mathieu Blanchard, Didrik Hermansen, Sebastian Krogvig, Dani Jung and Peter van der Zon will go head-to-head for the TCC crown. Sadly, local ever-present and multi podium finisher of the TCC, Erick Aguero will not start due to injuries sustained in a fall.

For the women:

UTMB one and two, Katie Schide and Marianne Hogan will once again do battle along with Tomomi Bitoh from Japan.

Departing from San Jose around 0330am, the journey to the coast will be undertaken in darkness. The hope is that runner’s can start the stage as early as possible, therefore taking advantage of cooler temperatures before the heat of the day arrives.

The TCC is the ultimate Costa Rican multi-day adventure. The route hugs the coastline of the tropical Pacific, weaving in and out of the Talamancas; a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of this Central American country. The terrain is ever-changing and challenges each participant, from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails. Add river crossings, boulder hopping, swimming through rivers, passing under waterfalls, and long and relentless beaches, TCC is a unique experience. Finally, the finish will come in the incredible Corcovado National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site with a stunning final loop around Drake Bay. After an evening relaxing, the runner’s will depart for their journeys back to San Jose via speedboat to Sierpe and then a follow on coach trip.

“TCC has always grabbed my attention, February is early in the year, so, there are not many races. For me, it will be a challenge, I’m usually home skiing in Norwegian winter and in 2023 I will be in an exotic race in the Jungle – it’s exciting! The landscapes and nature looks spectacular! The trails look challenging and fun, a perfect mix of racing and adventure.” – Sebastian Krogvig

#tcc2023

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Mathieu Blanchard to join The Coastal Challenge 2023 – #TCC2023

Posted on December 22, 2022 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge, Costa Rica, is excited to announce that Mathieu Blanchard will join the line-up for the 2023 edition.

Mathieu shot to fame after the 2022 UTMB when he traded blows with Kilian Jornet, finally placing 2nd. However, Mathieu is not the new kid on the block… His results go back to 2016 with podium placings in his home of Canada at Quebec Mega Trail and Ultra Trail Harricana de Charlevoix.

The rise in the sport has been steady and planned, in 2018 for example, Mathieu placed 13th at UTMB, in 2019 10th at CCC, and in 2021 he showed the promise of victory with 3rd at UTMB.

Mathieu leading 9x MDS champion, Rachid el Morabity

While he may be considered a single-day specialist, Mathieu dipped his toes in stage racing with participation in the 2021 Marathon des Sables – an edition that has now become infamous due to the heat and sickness bug that swept through the race. Mathieu was primed to stir the race up on the long day, sadly, the sickness hit him and he went in to survival mode. He still managed 5th overall.

Now The Coastal Challenge awaits; heat, humidity and the prospect of running along the coast and in and out of the mountains for a week.

TCC is the ultimate Costa Rican multi-day adventure. Hugging the coastline of the tropical Pacific, the route weaves in and out of the Talamancas; a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of this Central American country. Ever-changing terrain challenges each participant, from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails. River crossings, boulders, swimming through rivers, passing under waterfalls, surviving long and relentless beaches. Finally, the finish in the incredible Corcovado National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site, with a stunning final loop around Drake Bay before departing for their journeys home via speedboat.

THE RACE

Stage 1 34.6km 1018m of vert and 886m of descent
Stage 2 39.1km 1898m of vert and 1984m of descent
Stage 3 47.4km 1781m of vert and 1736m of descent
Stage 4 37.1km 2466m of vert and 2424m of descent
Stage 5 49.8km 1767m of vert and 1770m of descent
Stage 6 22.5km 613m of vert and 613m of descent

Total 230.5km

Vertical 9543m

Descent 9413m

#tcc2023

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The Coastal Challenge #TCC2023 Preview

Posted on November 4, 2022 by talkultra

Countdown to the 2023 ‘The Coastal Challenge’ begins and today, we announce the elite line-up that will travel to Costa Rica to experience six days, 230.5km of racing and 9543m of vertical gain.

The ultimate Costa Rican multi-day adventure hugs the coastline of the tropical Pacific, weaving in and out of the Talamancas; a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of this Central American country. An ever-changing terrain challenges each participant, from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails. River crossings, boulders, swim through rivers, pass under waterfalls, survive long and relentless beaches and finally finish in the incredible Corcovado National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site with a stunning final loop around Drake Bay before departing for their journeys home via speedboat.

TOP WOMEN

UTMB 2022 champion Katie Schide (The North Face) is no stranger to the challenges of distance or terrain. In recent years she has shot to fame with a string of high profile results with victories at Mont Blanc 90km, Val d’Aran by UTMB, MIUT 85km and of course, the most recent, UTMB. With results that date back to 2025, Katie is the ‘one-to-watch’ at TCC 2023.

“I’m very excited to explore Costa Rica on foot, to share a big week with so many other runners, and to challenge myself in a new place!”

Swedish athlete, Mimmi Kotka (La Sportiva) is excited to leave a cold and wintry Scandinavia to join the TCC line up. Victory at CCC in 2016 made Mimmi a star and since that start, she has topped the podium at Gran Trail Courmayer, Marathon du Mont Blanc, TDS, MIUT and recently, Lavaredo.

“Costa Rica is one of my bucket list destinations and the possibility to go there and run a stage race at the same time; a perfect combo! I have never done a multi stage race and this is also something that excites me. New experience, a new place and a new race format.”

Tomomi Bitoh joined the TCC line-up in 2022 but unfortunately contracted Coronavirus in the days before the race started. Once clear, she did join the race for a couple of stage but there and then, the Japanese athlete confirmed she would toe the line in 2023.

“I was able to run through the very beautiful ocean at TCC2022 but I only experienced a small part of the route. I’ll be running through it again this year, enjoying the scenery and appreciating the full point-to-point journey that TCC brings.”

TOP MEN

Peter van der Zon (Hoka) is no stranger to Costa Rica or TCC. He toed the line in 2022 and placed 2^nd to an inform Hayden Hawks. With experience and now an understanding of the route, the conditions and what it takes to win, Peter will no doubt be returning looking for the top spot come Drake Bay and the conclusion of the 2023 race. He has recently placed 7^th at Mozart 100 and won Istria by UTMB.

“I am looking forward to going back to TCC, the racing was hard but it felt like a big family adventure and of course i want to try to be number one this time. But seeing the competition I am up against, that will not be easy!”

Didrik Hermansen (Hoka) has been an ever-present on the ultra scene dating back to 2010. A breakthrough performance with victory at Lavaredo in 2015 paved a way to victory at Transgrancanaria and a 2^nd place at Western States. Didrik is known for his fast pace and for sure will be one-to-watch at the start line in Quepos.

“Costa Rica looks so amazing. I have never run in that area and be able to combine running in a beautiful terrain over several days at new locations seems awesome. I will run the World Championships in Thailand this November, the climate will quite similar so that will be a good benchmark what to do and what to use come February 2023.”

Dani Jung (Scarpa) in recent years has gained attention due to a string of high profile results, victory at Raid de la Reunion and 4^th at Hardrock 100. But Dani has been ticking of impressive results for many years, particularly in the skyrunning calendar with races such as Mega Ultraskymarathon, Hamperokken Skyrace, Royal Ultra Sky Marathon and USM. The distance of TCC will not intimidate this Italian, however, a multi-day format is very different to one long race.

Sebastian Krogvig (Dynafit) heads up a Norwegian double act with Didrik. The duo will also be racing at the World Championships in Chiang Mai, so, as Didrik mentioned, they will both get an invaluable ‘heads-up’ on racing in heat and humidity ahead of TCC in February 2023. Sebastian had a breakthrough season in 2021 with 3^rd at Lavaredo and victory at TDS during UTMB week. Recently he placed 2^nd at Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB.

“I heard about TCC many years ago, I think first from the book “Running beyond” by you! TCC has always grabbed my attention, February is early in the year, so, there are not many races. For me, it will be a challenge, I’m usually home skiing in Norwegian winter and in 2023 I will be in an excotic race in the Jungle – it’s exciting! The landscapes and nature looks spectacular! The trails look challenging and fun, a perfect mix of racing and adventure.”

THE RACE

Stage 1 34.6km 1018m of vert and 886m of descent
Stage 2 39.1km 1898m of vert and 1984m of descent
Stage 3 47.4km 1781m of vert and 1736m of descent
Stage 4 37.1km 2466m of vert and 2424m of descent
Stage 5 49.8km 1767m of vert and 1770m of descent
Stage 6 22.5km 613m of vert and 613m of descent

Total 230.5km

Vertical 9543m

Descent 9413m

Stage 1

It’s a tough day! Runners depart San Jose early morning (around 0530) for a 3-hour drive to Playa Del Rey, Quepos. It’s the only day that the race starts late and ‘in the sun!’. It’s the toughest day of the race, not because of the terrain or distance, but because of the time of day! The runners are fresh and feel great. That is until about 10km and then they realise the heat and humidity is relentless. It’s a day for caution! The 34.6km is very runnable with little vertical and technicality, it welcomes the runners to Costa Rica.

Stage 2

From here on in, it is an early breakfast, around 0400, the race starts with the arrival of the sun! The only way is up from the start with a tough and challenging climb. It’s a tough day with an abundance of climbing and descending and a final tough flat stretch on the beach, just as the heat takes hold.

Stage 3

It is basically 25km of climbing topping out at 800m followed by a drop to sea and a final kick in the tail before the arrival at camp. For many, this is a key day and maybe one of the most spectacular.

Stage 4

It’s another tough start to the day with a relentless climb, but once at 900m the route is a roller coaster of relentless small climbs and descents, often littered with technical sections, rain forest, river crossings and boulders. At 30km, it’s a short drop to the line and the finish at 37.1km.

Stage 5

The long day but what a beauty! This route was tweaked a couple of years ago and now has become iconic with tough trails, plenty of climbing, sandy beaches and yes, even a boat trip. The finish at Drake Bay is iconic.

Stage 6

The victory lap! For many, this stage is the most beautiful and memorable. In just over 20km, the route manages to include a little of all that has gone before. It’s a stage of fun and challenges and one that concludes on the beach as a 2018 medal is placed over your head – job done!

“The Coastal Challenge was lucky to continue through the pandemic, of course we had restricted fields with 2022 signifying a return to normal. TCC is a unique race and one that we are passionate about. We created this race to show of Costa Rica and this beautiful coastline. The race travels in and out of the stunning coastal mountain range via dense forest trails, river crossings, waterfalls, long stretches of golden beaches backed by palm trees, dusty access roads, high ridges and open expansive plains. At times technical, the combination of so many challenging elements are only intensified by heat and high humidity that slowly but surely reduces even the strongest competitors to exhausted shells by the arrival of the finish line.”
Rodrigo Carazo, RD

*****

#tcc2023

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Julien Chorier joins The Coastal Challenge 2022

Posted on November 18, 2021 by talkultra

Former cyclist and triathlete, now inspirational trail runner, Julien Chorier will join the line-up of the 2022 The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica.

It’s been a long-term project for Julien to join the TCC party, originally planned for 2020 then 2021, now Julien can make the dream a reality in ’22.’

With well over 10-years in the sport, there are few races that Julien has not participated in. Importantly, he has also won many… Way back in 2007 the Frenchman won CCC, in 2008 he was 3^rd at UTMB, in 2009 he won the iconic Raid de la Reunion.

What followed is a list of palmáres that are too long to list, key highlights being: 1^st Andorra Ultra Trail 2010, 1^st Hardrock 100 and Raid de la Reunion 2011, 1^st UTMF 2012, 1^st Andorra Ultra Trail 2013, 1^st MIUT 2014, 1^st EcoTrail Funchal 2016 and in and amongst all these victories are countless podium and top-10 places. Importantly, Julien has multi-day experience both at the iconic Marathon des Sables and MDS Peru.

Julien is an ambassador for the sport. Since 2014, he has been running and working for the HOKA brand, as team captain of the team trail. In addition to this, he has a ‘Middle Mountain Guide’ diploma and organizes and supervises trail courses, as he says, “It is a way to transmit my passion and my experience of ultra.”

The Coastal Challenge is excited to have Julien toe the line in Quepos come February 2022. One thing is for sure, Julien will bring a wealth of experience to the start line and doubt, in camp every night, he will pass that experience on to each and every participant.

“What a privilege to discover the world by running to discover myself, my limits and my feelings!”
– Julien Chorier

The Coastal Challenge

Irrespective of pace or effort, the Costa Rican coastline never stops providing inspiration. This is so much more than a race, It is a journey, a running holiday and a voyage of discovery. Friendships made in the rainforests, on the beaches and in the camps are ones to last a lifetime – the race is one of survival, perseverance and enjoyment in equal measure.

“This has been an incredible journey. It’s a stunning and magnificent part of the world and the course, terrain, views and the racing has been world-class. I have been blown away by everything – the final stage was just stunning and it managed to compress the whole TCC experience in just 22km. I will be back to TCC and Costa Rica one day, guaranteed!”
– Tom Owens, 2017 Champion

Hugging the coastline of the tropical Pacific, TCC is the ultimate supported multi-day experience that weaves in and out of the Talamancas; a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of this Central American country. Runners will cross rivers, boulder, swim through rivers, pass under waterfalls, survive long relentless beaches and finally finish in the incredible Corcovado National Park, a Unesco World Heritage site. The terrain is ever-changing from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails.

With two races available, an Expedition Run of 230km and an Adventure Run of 155km – TCC is a race not to be missed!

230km and 10.000m+

Join the race in 2022, February 5th to 12th, registration HERE

Please note, TCC requires full vaccination and documented proof will be required.

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Hayden Hawks and Beth Pascall to join The Coastal Challenge 2022

Posted on November 9, 2021 by talkultra

The Coastal Challenge, is pleased to announce the first two elite athletes to join the line-up of the 2022 race that will take plane in February – Hayden Hawks and Beth Pascall.

Due to the global pandemic, the 2021 edition of the TCC took place but unfortunately, due to travel complications, was very much a local event. Now with restrictions easing throughout the world, the race will return to its original format welcoming competitors from all over the world.
Hayden Hawks, a previous participant at the TCC will headline the line-up along with the 2021 Western States Endurance Run champion, Beth Pascall.

Hayden burst on the ultra-running scene in 2016 when he battled with Zach Miller at TNF50 where he placed 2nd. He won the CCC in 2017 and in addition he has won Lavaredo 120km, Chuckanut 50km, Black Canyon 100km, Squaw Peak 50m, JFK50, Red Mountain 55km and recently Zion Ultra. At The Coastal Challenge 2018, Hayden ran a stunning head-to-head battle with the UK’s Tom Evans which produced a course record time for the Brit. Hayden returns in 2022 looking to top the podium and preparation for the 2022 Western States after placing 11th in 2020.

Beth first came to my attention in 2016 when photographing the UK’s Lakeland 100, her victory in 21:29 placing her 4th overall. From that moment on, Beth has impressed, always challenging herself on a world stage and progressing through the ranks, be that in multi-day races such as The Dragons Back or fighting the 100-mile distance at UTMB. Highlights have come with 1st at the Highland Fling (UK Championship), 2nd at MIUT, 6th Raid de la Reunion, 4th and 5th UTMB and a string of FKT’s. Recently, a stunning Bob Graham Round course record time of 14:34 in 2020 provided a hint of the athletic talent and speed that Beth possesses and this was confirmed with victory at Canyons 100km in 2021. This set the platform for the 2021 Western States where Beth ran the race of her life to take victory. Now, she returns to the multi-day format and the heat and humidity of Costa Rica for the 2022 The Coastal Challenge.

Hugging the coastline of the tropical Pacific, TCC is the ultimate supported multi-day experience that weaves in and out of the Talamancas, a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of this Central American country.The terrain is ever-changing from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails. Runners will cross rivers, boulder, swim through rivers, pass under waterfalls, survive long relentless beaches and finally finish in the incredible Corcovado National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning final loop around Drake Bay before departing for their journeys home via speedboat.