Lanzarote Training Camp 2025 Summary

Posted on January 17, 2025 by talkultra

What a week!

There is no better way to kick-off a new year than arriving in Lanzarote for a week of good weather and all things running.

2025 signifies 19-years of training camps for me in ‘Lanza!’ They have changed and tweaked over the years and for the past 8-years, the current trail running format has been the template on how we tweak and develop each camp.

For 2025, we actually scaled the camp back to a smaller format, despite many requests to attend the camp, we kept it small with under 25 participants.

This was a significant step in ensuring smaller run/walk groups and the ability for everyone to get to know each other. It really worked, I’d go as far to say it was the friendliest and most cohesive camp in many years.

To ensure happiness on the trails, we had a core team of four guides, Pierre Meslet, Abelone Lyng, Hanna Bradshaw and Ian Corless. In simple terms, we break the guides down into groups of:

1. Faster running.

2. Running with some walking.

3. Walk/ run and

4. Walking.

Groups of 3-6 people really work and this was a huge success.

Our days follow a similar format:

0900: Morning a run that extends to the afternoon based on the distance. We have different routes and distances for each day.
A break for lunch.
1500: A talk and or workshop.
1745: Recovery run of 3-5km.
1900: Optional evening meet up for drink/ chat before dinner.
Exception to the above is one evening we do a run and overnight bivouac camp.
The last day is ‘long run’ day which starts at 0800 and covers between 30km to 45km.

Every edition of the camp, we get a great variety of abilities and experience, 2025 was no different. Up at the front we had a multiple MDS podium champion, at the other end, we had a couple who had never run longer than 10km before. It’s what makes the camp great. Mixed abilities and everyone providing knowledge.

Our bivouac night, as always, was special. Due to some glow sticks, a portable speaker and some good tunes, it was even more special. Nothing like a mini rave in a volcano.

If you do all our sessions, typically weekly mileage is around 160km/ 100 miles. It sounds a huge amount huh? It is, but on the camp recovery and downtime plays a huge roll and even the relative novices were accumulating big distances and believe it or not, our duo who had never run longer than 10km before both did just over 30km’s on the last day, a huge success for them and the camp!

A key to the recovery process for each runner is Pierre Meslet offering the option to book massage and Luke Read from Airbornfit offering strength and conditioning.

Of course, nothing is compulsory, participants can miss sessions as they wish, however, this rarely happens. The camp takes hold and neary everyone surpasses persoanl expectations or limits.

We conclude the camp with a group meal; a great opportunity to relax and clebrate the achievements of all.

The only sad moment comes with the closure of the camp and onward travel home.

However, as I told all our 2025 participants, it’s only 51 weeks to the next camp and already, many have signed up with eager anticipation of what will be a 20 year celebration in 2026.

LANZAROTE TRAINING WEBSITE HERE

Fancy joining us for one of the best running weeks ever?

Who is the camp for? Anyone who is interested in running. We cater for everyone and we specifically cater for those who are doing stage races such as Marathon des Sables. Ultimately, its just a great week of running, be that for stage races or single stage races of any distance.

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facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Lanzarote Training Camp – January 9th to 16th, 2025

Posted on August 13, 2024 by talkultra

The 2025 Lanzarote Training Camp taking place from January 9th to 16th, 2025 is open for booking.

If you love running, this is the camp for you!

Located at the iconic Club La Santa resort, our training camp will provide you with all the knowledge, experience and practical training you need to make your next adventure a success.

Hosted by Ian Corless, the training camp is the perfect place to hone your skills for stage racing, fast-packing and running in general.

The purpose of any training camp is to provide you with specific information and training designed specifically to help you with your future objectives, be that a single-stage race, stage race or a personal adventure.

We specifically cater for training and information for MDS events.

Lanzarote Training Camp website HERE

Although you may run (train) more in this condensed week, it’s not designed to break you! Therefore, all training sessions are flexible and you can dip-in and dip-out as required.

Most importantly, just as in any race, we will have a very mixed ability base. You will therefore train at your appropriate pace with like minded people.

Each day will be broken down into one or two specific training sessions, one workshop and leisure time. Lanzarote offers a variety of terrain; soft-sand, technical trail, ridges, climbs, descents and wonderful flowing single-track. With an epic coastal backdrop, there is something for everyone.

Club la Santa has been the home for the Lanzarote Training Camp for over 15-years!

Offering excellent facilities for any enthusiastic sports person, there are over 30 different sports and classes available for free to anyone staying on our training camp. This makes it ideal for those who would like to bring a partner. Mum and dad, would you like to bring 1 or 2 children? They go free!

Our standard apartments are 1-bedroom with lounge, bathroom and kitchen. Perfect for two adults with or without children. On site are 4 restaurants, a sports bar, shops and supermarket, all making for an easy, no stress week.

Running trails are on the doorstep.

Club la Santa, the perfect location.

JOIN US

BOOK HERE

PRICE PER PERSON (exc flight) £1295 pp

A £300 deposit secures a place for shared occupancy, £600 for solo-occupancy. Deposits are non-refundable in any circumstance and cannot be carried forward to a following year.

This includes a self-catering apartment on a share basis. Inclusion in the above schedule and access to all facilities within the Club La Santa complex.

A non-training partner is welcome to join a training partner for a cost of £1095 pp* and they are able to use all the facilities at Club La Santa.

Solo Occupancy apartment £1895

Apartment upgrades are possible on request – no availability guaranteed.

What is not included?

Food and drinks are all payable locally. Any additional day trips or excursions and flights/ transfers to and from the UK and internal transfers to and from the airport in Lanzarote.

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Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Lofoten Stage Run 2024 – The Arctic Triple

Posted on June 2, 2024 by talkultra

The inaugural 2024 Lofoten Stage Run has just concluded, two experiences, the 170km Expedition Run and the 130km Adventure Run brought to you by The Arctic Triple team. Six days and four stages inspired by the Lofoten Ultra-Trail 100 Miles solo race, the Lofoten Stage Run brings the same route broken down into manageable chunks.

There is no better way to fully immerse oneself and experience that magic that Lofoten offers. The routes journey to hidden places, often only experienced by the most adventurous tourist. Each day concluding with the Norwegian Hytte experience and local cuisine.

Designed to be a running holiday, however, do not be fooled, those cozy and comfortable evenings are worked for. The terrain here in Lofoten is challenging; a mixture of all terrains and elements that can bring for many, the ultimate challenge.

Mountains, snow, single-track and amazaing views with Johan Cajdert.

THE EXPERIENCE

Arriving in Svolvær on Tuesday May 28^th, participants were transported to Reine, considered by many to be the most beautiful village in Norway. It is certainly iconic.

Staying in an authentic fisherman cabin in Reine Rorbuer, the 2024 experience kicked-off with a race briefing and then dinner.

Wednesday, stage 1, started with a boat trip from Reine to Kjerkfjorden.

The route ahead, 39km’s. The opening 10km’s a real challenge with tough climbs, technical terrain, snow sections and soft/ boggy ground.

Kvalvik beach offers some opportunity for flat terrain before a steep climb and eventually a descent to Fredvang and checkpoint.

A road section leads to Nesland and the final technical trail sections before arriving in the picture postcard, Nusfjord – a tough day!

Stage 2 at 34km’s concludes at Lofoten Rorbuutleie another amazing location surrounded by sea and mountains.

The early route to Napp bringing many a challenge, technical trails and mild hands-on scrambling sections before sweeping single-track with stunning views.

Road sections provide some easy running and link the key trails

Road gives way to coastal trail and another road section before arriving at Lilleeidetholmen Marina, the buildings are located with water on both sides and direct access to quays and floating docks.

Stage 3 for 170km Expedition runner’s is the long day, covering 52km’s with arguably the most ‘runnable’ terrain of the whole week.

Technical aspects are reduced and much of the route is single-track interspersed with some road.

The finish at Brustranda Fjordcamping once again offering a wonderful Norwegian hytte experience of cabin surrounded by water and mountains.

Stage 4, the final day bringing some of the most technical terrain of the whole Lofoten Stage Run experience, especially the climb to Jordtinden and the ridge that follows with some exposure form ‘airy’ single-track, snow fields and at times, challenging terrain.

The final peak of Tjeldbergtinden a final challenge before the run in to Svovær and the conclusion of four magical days. After the race, a meal at the event hotel, Thon Hotel Lofoten, where the focus is some of the best local food from the area. A perfect evening to recap from the race and share new and old stories with your new friends.

THE RUN

170km or 130km, one thing is for sure, running in Lofoten is tough and challenging. Terrain constantly switches from demanding and technical sections to easy flowing single-track. For sure, day 1 was a surprise to many and a warning of the challenge that would be ahead to complete the 4-day experience.

Despite schedules for the 170/130km runs, this journey was all about enjoyment and experience, therefore, participant requests for shorter days, or even rest days were accommodated. The Lofoten Stage Run is as explained, a running holiday and therefore it should provide the right experience for the individual.

Reiner completed the 170km mixing walking and running

What was key was the unified enjoyment through the whole group of participants, key to this was the evening hytte experience and the sharing of a meal together.

Of course, racing did take place, and Lina and Sanna Elkott Helander were the stand out champions of the 170km distance along with Johan Cajdert.

Graeme Murdoch and Tzvetie Erohina lead the way for the 130km.

Results though don’t tell the story, the Lofoten Stage Run was a relaxed trail running experience that brought so much more than just running.

The weather played ball and provided not only pleasurable temperatures but also allowed Lofoten to be visible, this really is a truly magical landscape. Traveling point-to-point, on foot, experiencing the majesty of Norway. Stunning trails, majestic mountains, resplendent views, and all during the endless daytime of the midnight sun. It gets no better!

VIEW THE FULL IMAGE GALLERY HERE

Experience Lofoten.

Experience the Arctic Circle.

Experience the midnight sun.

Experience the majesty and beauty of Norway under your own power.

Want to join the experience in 2025?

Go HERE

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Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

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Grab A Coffee…

Posted on March 19, 2024 by talkultra

I had a brief chat with journalist, Sussi Lorinder while chilling in my hammock after my 11th edition of The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica.

Ian Corless is in his hammock outside the tent with a beer in hand, I sit in the sun lounger next to me with my bottle of recovery drink. We are located in Drake Bay on the Corcovado Peninsula in Costa Rica. The sun is about to set and colors the sky rose-orange. We both just finished a race, a six-day adventure that he photographed and I ran. The soundscape is almost deafening, waves crashing against the shore, howler monkeys in the palm trees above us and cicadas hissing. — Evidence of hammock, stunning view and beer in hand!

I very much prefer being behind a camera than in-front of one. As a good friend once said, ‘You have a face for radio!’ I concur.

If interested, have a read HERE

You may need to use Google Translate for the link above, English translation below.

Thanks to Swedish Photographers’ Association

Crocodiles, what crocodiles? Photo by Su Europe

Ian Corless has created a career as a running photographer and has the whole world as his field of work. Text: Sussi Lorinder.

Photo: Ian Corless

Ian Corless is in his hammock outside his tent with a beer in hand, I sit in a sun lounger with my bottle of recovery drink. We are located in Drake Bay on the Corcovado Peninsula in Costa Rica. The sun is about to set and colors the sky rose-orange. We have both just finished a race; a six-day adventure that Ian photographed and I ran. The soundscape is almost deafening, waves crashing against the shore, howler monkeys in the palm trees above us and cicadas hissing.

Ian Corless cleans one of his cameras from dust and dirt. The week has been a tough week as he followed the elite in the race. The environment and the weather are the biggest challenges when photographing running competitions and above all The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica. The humidity is high here and the roads are very dusty. Ian also prefers to stand in the most spectacular places, which requires him to get there before the elite.

Photo: Ian Corless

“Pressing the button and actually taking the picture itself is what takes the least time and energy,” he says.

The logistics of a race are often a big challenge. Getting by car between two places where he wants to photograph can take significantly longer than it takes to run. They might run across a mountain but often he has to drive around. Here in Costa Rica, the roads are harsh dirt roads, so keeping a high speed with the car is impossible.

“Most of the nicest places are far away from the road, so it also requires good physical fitness to get there,” he says.

Lucky that Ian is a strong runner himself. His career started with him running the races himself with a camera. Then he only got pictures of the runners who were about as fast as himself.

“The advantage when you run the race yourself is that you actually get to all the places and know where the coolest environments are,” he says. “But sweat is a big opponent in Costa Rica due to the humidity. You sweat profusely after just five minutes of running; my cameras don’t feel so good about that,” he adds.

For several years Ian worked as a food and advertising photographer and ran in his spare time. In 2011, he was going to run a race and brought his camera to coincide with the start of a trail running podcast, Talk Ultra. He took some pictures and realised that no one was doing what he was doing. From races, Ian had only seen pictures taken of the runners smiling into the camera, pictures taken without much thought. He wanted to do something different, build up the image in the environment where the race took place, to sell the race and the place. Most of the time, he photographs without the runners seeing him, in order to get authenticity and more feeling in the pictures.

Photo: Ian Corless

Working as a race photographer can look glamorous on social media. Ian has travelled to some really exotic places and has about 175 travel days a year. But often he doesn’t go home to Norway between trips, but like now, for example, he directly travels from Costa Rica to Gran Canaria. Then it is important to have an understanding family and be able to plan ahead. Ian usually makes his annual calendar in November and since his girlfriend Abelone is a runner, they check which races she wants to run too and plan the calendar together. In this way, they meet even when he travels a lot. On stage races, you also usually live in tents close to each other. Sleep is easily disturbed when it is very hot or very cold or the tent neighbour is snoring loudly.

– But it’s worth it, says Ian and looks out over the magnificent sunset.

Photo: @cusukofotografiacr

Name: Ian Corless
Age: 57
Lives: in Norway but travels about half the year
Dream destination: Patagonia
Instagram: @iancorlessphotopraghy

‘What I Wish I Knew When I Started Photography’ with Ian Corless

Posted on September 27, 2023 by talkultra

Luis Alberto Hernando, adidas Terrex ©iancorless

Article by Christian Bessey

As I get deeper into my love for photographey, I want to speak to those whose work is not only technically profound but unique. Being unique is the key to unlocking a world of opportunities and experiences that others can learn from and see what is possible. That is why I reached out to connect with Ian Corless.

Photography enthusiasts, if you’ve ever scrolled through Ian Corless’s Instagram feed, you’ll understand why I was eager to connect with him. His extraordinary work stands out, but it’s not just his talent that sets him apart. Ian’s remarkable willingness to engage and network, both with clients and during this interview, is a testament to his character. He takes photography to the extreme, whether it’s capturing high-profile commercial assignments, scaling a mountainside for a passion project, or sharing as much knowledge with the photography community as he can. Check out his work and the words he shared with me about his journey in photography.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE

Episode 237 – Corina Sommer

Posted on July 21, 2023 by talkultra

Episode 237 of Talk Ultra has an interview with Corina Sommer who won Oman Desert Marathon early in 2023 and went on to place 4th at Marathon des Sables.

Corina at Oman Desert Marathon ©iancorless

Now in its 8th edition, the Oman Desert Marathon took place January 21^st to 24^th. A self-sufficient race, the event took place over 4-stages with a total distance of 165-kms. Corina Sommer battled hard to take a convincing victory.

SPOTIFY HERE

APPLE iTUNES HERE

Also available on ANCHOR

If stage racing, fastpacking or multi-day adventures are your thing, check out THIS Camelbak Octane 25.

Marathon des Sables 2024 entries are due to open on June 30th. Moving forward, some changes will be made to the race. Read a summary of points HERE.

HOME of the GIANTS goes live August 1st. A multi-day adventure through the magical and amazing playground that is Jotunheimen, Norway. Unlike a race, this journey is a finely balanced exclusive trip for just 12 participants. A challenge at a more relaxed pace, taking in an amazing route whilst moving light in a semi self-sufficient mode. More HERE

Share us on Facebook – Talk Ultra FB HERE

Tweet us on Twitter – Talk Ultra on Twitter HERE

Instagram – HERE

HOME of the GIANTS 2024

Posted on July 20, 2023 by talkultra

Are you up for an adventure in an incredible part of the world?

If the answer is yes, Home Of The Giants is for you!

JULY 21ST TO JULY 28TH 2024

A multi-day adventure through the magical and amazing playground that is Jotunheimen, Norway. Unlike a race, this journey is a finely balanced exclusive trip for just 12 participants. A challenge at a more relaxed pace, taking in an amazing route whilst moving light in a semi self-sufficient mode.

The iconic ‘The Church’ we go to the summit on day 2

Spread over 5-days, our journey starts from Bygdin Fjellhotel with an overnight stay, the following morning we depart via the iconic M/B Bitihorn boat covering the length of Bitihorn lake to our start point at Eidsbugarden. A magical journey, on foot, covering 100km and 4774m+

Snow fields, water crossings and morraine

You will encounter snow, water crossings, airy and exposed sections, plenty of climbing and descending and full days on the trail. Each day will conclude at a DNT cabin where you will have a bed, shower facilities, 3-course dinner and breakfast included.

Rock and snow transitions to lush green and single-track

WANT TO JOIN US?

Only 12 places are available for what will be a journey of a lifetime.

MORE INFORMATION HERE

Relentless rock and boulder sections that sap the strength

Follow on:

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Episode 233 – COURTNEY DAUWALTER

Posted on March 10, 2023 by talkultra

Episode 233 of Talk Ultra – YES we are back! With Speedgoat Karl co-hosting and an in-depth interview with Courtney Dauwalter.

It has been a long time, and we can only apologise. Life, family and extensive travel had an impact on available time and while it’s always possible to ‘find some time’ somewhere, the podcast had to be sidelined for the beginning of 2023.

Lanzarote Training Camp, Oman Desert Marathon, The Coastal Challenge, Black Canyon Ultra, a photoshoot for adidas and lastly Transgrancanaria, it was a hectic start to ’23!’

Lanzarote Training Camp HERE
Oman Desert Marathon HERE
The Coastal Challenge HERE
Transgrancanaria HERE

But hey, no better way to return than with an in-depth interview with the Queen of Trail, Courtney Dauwalter.

Courtney just recently won Transgrancanaria with a course record and sub 15-hour performance, once again placing in the top-10 overall.

The interview with Courtney starts at 00:21:00

You can listen to the show on ANCHOR by Spotify HERE

Share us on Facebook – Talk Ultra FB HERE

Tweet us on Twitter – Talk Ultra on Twitter HERE

Instagram – HERE

And use good old word mouth.

Importantly, go to iTunes and subscribe so that you automatically get our show when it’s released we are also available on Stitcher for iOS, Android and Web Player and now Tunein. We are also on Spotify too.

Our web page at www.iancorless.com has all our links and back catalogue.

Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patreon at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us.

THE SHOW

Spotify HERE

ITunes HERE

Stitcher You can listen on iOS HERE, Android HERE or via a web player HERE

Website – talkultra.com

LANZAROTE TRAINING CAMP 2024

Posted on January 30, 2023 by talkultra

MULTI-DAY TRAINING CAMP

JANUARY 2024 11th to 18th (Thursday to Thursday)

Located at the iconic Club La Santa resort, our training camp will provide you with all the knowledge, experience and practical training you need to make your next trail, ultra and multi-day adventure a success.

hires_Transvulcanica Selection22. Oktober 2022_1173

Hosted by IAN CORLESS, the training camp is the perfect place to hone your skills for multi-day, fast packing and running in general.

With

2024 LINE UP

ANNA COMET PASCUA, PIERRE MESLET,

LAUREN GREGORY and INGE NIJKAMP.

GUESTS – KEVIN WEBBER and STEVE DIEDERICH.

Anna Comet Pascua won the 2022 Marathon des Sables in a dominant performance. An experienced sky, mountain and ultra-runner, Anna is also a multi-day specialist with victories at The Coastal Challenge in Costa Rica and the Everest Trail Race in Nepal. A runner for the Scarpa Team, it’s a pleasure to have Anna join us in Lanzarote.

Lauren Gregory ran the 2021 (toughest) Marathon des Sables and was first British woman and 8th in the women category. A personal trainer, Lauren will guide a run group, host yoga sessions will provide a talk.

Pierre Meslet joined the Lanzarote Multi-Day Training Camp in 2022 after placing 9th at the 2020 Marathon des Sables. His attendance was a success, not only from the perspective of leading a run group but also his profession as a physio – He was able to provide ‘on-site’ treatment for our training camp. Pierre is back in 2023!

Inge Nijkamp has been top-10 at Marathon des Sables and The Coastal Challenge. A qualified nutritionist, she will guide a group, provide a nutrition talk specific to multi-day running and be on-hand for one-to-one nutritional consultations.

Kevin Webber after a successful 2023 camp has requested that he come back in 2024 for more… In his words, “I just loved this, great location, great people, great running, what’s not to like?” He will once again guide a group, provide an inspiration and moving talk about running with a terminal cancer diagnosis. He has many stories to tell.

Steve Diederich is the UK agent for Marathon des Sables, The Coastal Challenge and Everest Trail Race, he will be on-hand to provide advice about all three races and answer any questions. Currently studying Sports Psychology and come Lanza 24 he will be qualified and on-hand to discuss the mental side of sport and running.

“I wanted to say a big thank you for this week – I’ve left so energised and inspired after the week… I thought the camaraderie from other runners was incredible. If felt as if everyone had left their ego at home which really made for such open and honest sessions. I hope you have the opportunity to reflect on how impactful and enjoyable the camp was. The fact that the organisation was seamless doesn’t just happen and I know the layers of detail and spreadsheets that go into an event like this. I’ll be back I’m sure and when I do get to the start line of MDS I will be much more likely to succeed based on all the advice.” – EB

BOOKING FORM HERE

The purpose of any training camp is to provide you with specific information and training designed specifically to help you with your future objectives. Although you may run (train) more in this condensed week, it’s not designed to break you! Therefore, all training sessions are flexible and you can dip-in and dip-out as required. Most importantly, just as in any race, we will have a very mixed ability base. You will therefore train at your appropriate pace with like minded people.

Each day will be broken down into one or two specific training sessions, one workshop and leisure time.

Lanzarote offers a variety of terrain that can be found in many desert races and therefore it’s the ideal training ground to prepare and acclimatise for an up and coming challenge. Club La Santa as a resort offers a great base and all facilities are included. This is great for relaxation, an opportunity to cross train or more importantly it’s perfect for friends and family to join you as a plethora of opportunities are available.

READ MORE HERE

PRICE PER PERSON (exc flight)

£1095 pp* shared occupancy / Solo Occupancy apartment £1695*

A £300 deposit secures a place for shared occupancy, £600 for solo-occupancy. Deposits are non-refundable in any circumstance and cannot be carried forward to a following year.

This includes a self-catering apartment on a share basis. Inclusion in the above schedule and access to all facilities within the Club La Santa complex.

A non-training partner is welcome to join a training partner for a cost of £975 pp* and they are able to use all the facilities at Club La Santa.

BOOK HERE

Follow on:

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

Image sales –www.iancorless.photoshelter.com

Lanzarote Multi-Day Training Camp 2023 – Day 4

Posted on January 17, 2023 by talkultra

Caldera Trasera is a wonderful loop from our base location, Club La Santa. It provides a short and hilly technical route that more ‘more’ exposure than many are used to. The Lanzarote Multi-Day Training Camp is all about pushing boundaries and learning.

Hands-on action provided some mega smiles, especially when the summit was reached. The level of comradeship was superb, everyone supporting each other to achieve their goal.