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Tag Archives: Montane
Episode 153 – Beth Pascall, Pavel Paloncy, Mike Ambrose, Golden Ring Ultra.
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- Likeys Ultra 6633
120 Mile
North America / Canada / Yukon / Eagle Plains
2018-03-09
Ultramarathon
SnowRunningMore info - Bel Monte Endurance Races
50K
North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Sherando Lake Recreation Area
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningMore info - Bel Monte Endurance Races
50 mile
North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Sherando Lake Recreation Area
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Chester Ultra
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Cheshire West and Chester / Chester
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Crazy Desert Trail Race
50K
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Park Drive
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Crazy Desert Trail Race
100k
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Park Drive
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - D33 Ultra From Epic Shit
D33 Ultra
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / Scotland / Aberdeen City / Duthie Park, Aberdeen
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningOut & backSoloMore info - Dirty Duo
50 km
North America / Canada / British Columbia / North Vancouver
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Haworth Hobble
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Bradford / Haworth
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Humanity Direct Amersham Ultra
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Buckinghamshire / Amersham
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Labor of Love
50M
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Nevada / Lowell Canyon
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningMore info - Labor of Love
50K
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Nevada / Lowell Canyon
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Land Between The Lakes Trail Runs
60k
North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Grand Rivers
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Land Between The Lakes Trail Runs
50 mile run
North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Grand Rivers
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Le Trail des Poilus
Le poilu
Europe / Western Europe / France / Nord-Pas-de-Calais / Pas-de-Calais / Ablain-Saint-Nazaire
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Marin Ultra Challenge
50K
North America / USA / Pacific / California / Fort Baker, Sausalito
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningHillySoloMore info - Marin Ultra Challenge
50 Mile
North America / USA / Pacific / California / Fort Baker, Sausalito
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningHillySoloMore info - Motatapu Icebreaker Off Road Marathon
R&R Sport 49 km Team Adventure Run
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Motatapu Station
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningHillyMore info - Old West Trails Fest
50K Ultra
North America / USA / Pacific / California / Borrego Springs
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
DesertTrailRunningSoloMore info - Oxfam Trailwalker NZ
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Whakatāne
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailWalkingTeam effortMore info - Prickly Pear 50K & 10 Mile Trail Runs
50K Trail Run
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / San Antonio
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Relais de Nuit de Melesse
Relais Hors stade non officiel
Europe / Western Europe / France / Brittany / Ille-et-Vilaine / Melesse
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Run for Amma
50K
North America / USA / Pacific / California / Portola Valley
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Saipan Marathon
50K
Oceania / Micronesia / Northern Mariana Islands / Saipan
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningOut & backMore info - SARR Prickly Pear 50K/10M/5K
50K Trail Run Non-SARR Member
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / San Antonio
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - SARR Prickly Pear 50K/10M/5K
50K Trail Run – SARR Member
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / San Antonio
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Six Foot Track Marathon
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Katoomba
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Te Houtaewa Challenge Marathon
62 km Ultra marathon
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Far North
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
SandTrailRunningMore info - Te Houtaewa Challenge Marathon
5 Person Relay
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Far North
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
SandTrailRunningMore info - Triple Peaks Challenge
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Havelock North
2018-03-10
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Ard Trail Raidlight
L’Ard Trail
Europe / Western Europe / France / Centre / Loiret / Ardon
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Fall Creek Falls 50K and Half Marathon
50K
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Pikeville
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Imber Ultra
Imber Ultra Marathon
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Wiltshire / Westbury
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Marxa dels Castells
Marxa dels Castells PLUS
Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Ceravera
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillySingle loopSoloMore info - Trail del Marganai
54
Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Sardinia / 09015 Domusnovas CI, Italy
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Trans-saint-paulienne
Trail sud ardéchois
Europe / Western Europe / France / Rhône-Alpes / Ardèche / Saint-Paul-le-Jeune
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Zululand Ultra Marathon
56 km
Africa / Southern Africa / South Africa / Nongoma
2018-03-11
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - Ecotrail Paris
45 km
Europe / Western Europe / France / Ile de France / Paris
2018-03-15
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info - 3 days of Syllamo
50K
North America / USA / West South Central / Arkansas / Mountain View
2018-03-16
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - 3 days of Syllamo
North America / USA / West South Central / Arkansas / Mountain View
2018-03-16
Multiday race
TrailMultiday RaceSoloMore info - Les Traces du Nord Basse Terre
154 km
North America / Caribbean / Guadeloupe / Lamentin
2018-03-16
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info - Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 50-100 km Team Challenge
Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 100 km Team Challenge
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Palm Beach
2018-03-16
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 50-100 km Team Challenge
Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 50 km Team Challenge Day: Sun, Sand, Surf
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Palm Beach
2018-03-16
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 50-100 km Team Challenge
Wild Women on Top Sydney Coastrek 50 km Team Challenge Day: Party All Night
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Palm Beach
2018-03-16
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - 3 days of Syllamo
50 Mile
North America / USA / West South Central / Arkansas / Mountain View
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Badwater Cape Fear
Badwater Cape Fear 50 km
North America / USA / South Atlantic / North Carolina / Bald Head Island
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Badwater Cape Fear
Badwater Cape Fear 51.4 Mile
North America / USA / South Atlantic / North Carolina / Bald Head Island
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RunningMore info - Caldeira Trail
Africa / Eastern Africa / Réunion / Ste-Rose
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Chuckanut 50K
Chuckanut 50 K
North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Bellingham
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSingle loopSoloMore info - Coastal Trail Series – Sussex
Coastal Trail Series – Sussex – Ultra
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / East Sussex / Birling Gap
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Ecotrail Paris
Trail 80 km
Europe / Western Europe / France / Ile de France / Paris
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
Night RaceCountrysideCityForestUTMB QualifierTrailRunningUndulatingPoint to PointSoloMore info - Elizabeth’s Furnace Fat Ass 50K
North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Front Royal, VA
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Hardmoors 55 Ultramarathon
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / North Yorkshire / Helmsley
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info - Lake Martin 100
27 Mile Trail Race
North America / USA / East South Central / Alabama / Lake Martin
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Lake Martin 100
50 Mile Trail Race
North America / USA / East South Central / Alabama / Lake Martin
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Lake Martin 100
100 Mile Trail Race
North America / USA / East South Central / Alabama / Lake Martin
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Lt. J. C. Stone 50K Road UltraMarathon
Lt. J. C. Stone 50K UltraMarathon
North America / USA / Mid-Atlantic / Pennsylvania / North Park, Allegheny County
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - Mesquite Canyon
50M
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Arizona / Waddell
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Mesquite Canyon
50K
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Arizona / Waddell
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Montaña de Oro
50km
North America / USA / Pacific / California / Los Osos
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - Music City Trail Ultra
50K
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Pegram
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningHillySoloMore info - Northburn Station 100 miler Mountain Run
Northburn Station 100 km Mountain Run
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Cromwell
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Northburn Station 100 miler Mountain Run
50 km Mountain Run
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / New Zealand / Cromwell
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info - Om Die Dam
50 km Marathon
Africa / Southern Africa / South Africa / Hartbeespoort
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningMore info - Pistol Ultra Run
100K
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Alcoa
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - Pistol Ultra Run
50 Mile
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Alcoa
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
Night RaceRoadRunningSoloMore info - Pistol Ultra Run
50K Relay
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Alcoa
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningRelayMore info - Pistol Ultra Run
50K
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Alcoa
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - Pistol Ultra Run
100 Miler
North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / Alcoa
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - The Grasslands Trail Runs
The Grasslands 50-Mile
North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Lyndon B. Johnson National Grassland
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Ultrabericus
Twin Lui&Lei
Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Veneto / Vicenza
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillyRelayMore info - Ultrabericus
Trail Integrale
Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Veneto / Vicenza
2018-03-17
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillySoloMore info - 5tot50vankrimpen
50km
Europe / Western Europe / Netherlands / South Holland / Krimpen aan den IJssel
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - 5tot50vankrimpen
45km
Europe / Western Europe / Netherlands / South Holland / Krimpen aan den IJssel
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningMore info - Ergysport Trail du Ventoux
46 km
Europe / Western Europe / France / Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur / Vaucluse / Mont Ventoux
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
SnowMountainTrailRunningMore info - Les Traces du Nord Basse Terre
47 km
North America / Caribbean / Guadeloupe / Lamentin
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Le Trail du Souffle
Trail Long (42 à 80km)
Europe / Western Europe / France / Ile de France / Seine-et-Marne / Larchant
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningMore info - Millennium Way
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / Telford and Wrekin / Newport
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
RunningSoloMore info - Oldham Way Ultra Weekend
Red Rose Ultra
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / Andhra Pradesh / Castleshaw
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info - Trail du Petit Ballon & Circuit des Grands Crus
Le Petit Ballon
Europe / Western Europe / France / Alsace / Haut-Rhin / Rouffach
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info - Trilhos do Paleozóico
Ultra Trilho do Paleozóico
Europe / Southern Europe / Portugal / Valongo
2018-03-18
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Multiday race
RoadMultiday RaceSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
BSI Lake Balaton Marathon+ Siófok – Fonyód
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
BSI Lake Balaton Marathon+ Badacsony – Balatonfüred
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
BSI Half Lake Balaton Supermarathon
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Multiday race
RoadMultiday RaceSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
BSI Lake Balaton Marathon+ Fonyód – Szigliget
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - BSI Lake Balaton Supermarathon
BSI Lake Balaton Marathon+ Balatonfüred – Siófok
Europe / Eastern Europe / Hungary / Siófok
2018-03-22
Ultramarathon
RoadRunningSoloMore info - Morocco Tizi N’Trail
Africa / Northern Africa / Morocco / Essaouira
2018-03-22
Multiday race
DesertSeaside / LakesideTrailMultiday RaceMore info - Antelope Island Buffalo Run
100 Mile
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Utah / Antelope Island
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info - Jurassic Coast Challenge
Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Dorset / Weymouth
2018-03-23
Multiday race
UTMB QualifierTrailMultiday RaceSoloMore info - Oxfam Trailwalker Australia – Melbourne
50 km
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Victoria / Wheelers Hill
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
TrailWalkingMore info - Oxfam Trailwalker Australia – Melbourne
100 km
Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Victoria / Wheelers Hill
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
TrailWalkingMore info - Pickled Feet 24/12/6 Hour Runs
Pickled Feet 100 Mile Run
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Eagle Island State Park
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningFlatSoloMore info - Pickled Feet 24/12/6 Hour Runs
Pickled Feet 100 Mile Relay
North America / USA / Mountain Region / Idaho / Eagle Island State Park
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
TrailRunningFlatRelayMore info - SciaccheTrail
SciaccheTrail, 47 km, 3000m +
Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Liguria / Monterosso al mare, Cinque Terre
2018-03-23
Ultramarathon
TrailRunning
Episode 152 – Tom Evans, Marcus Scotney and John Storkamp
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The Coastal Challenge 2018 #TCC2018 – Registration

The 2018 The Coastal Challenge finally got underway today in San Jose, Costa Rica, as over 100 runners from all over the world came to packet pick up and registration for the 14th edition of the race.
As always, it was a mixture of nerves and excitement. The journey ahead, a stunning 6-days running along the coast of Costa Rica from Quepos to the iconic Drake Bay. Flanked on the right by the Pacific and to the left, the amazing Talamanca mountain range. 
The 2018 edition of the race has all the makings of a classic. The men’s field is arguably the best ever with Michael Wardian, Hayden Hawks, Tom Evans, Marcus Scotney and Timothy Olson.

Michael Wardian, TCC champion and previous course record holder.

Hayden Hawks 2017 CCC champion.

Tom Evans 3rd at MDS Morocco 2017 and 4th at CCC and the Eiger Ultra Trail.

Marcus Scotney winner of the Dragons Back Race and Cape Wrath Ultra.
The ladies’ race is equally impressive with past winner Ester Alves returning joined by Ragna Debats, Inge Nijkamp and Josephine Adams.

Ester Alves 2016 The Coastal Challenge champion.

Ragna Debats Skyrunner World Series champion 2017.

Inge Nijkamp 11th at MDS Morocco 2017.

Josephine Adams 6th at MDS Peru 2017.
Full preview HERE
Tomorrow, Sunday 11th, runners depart for San Jose at 0400 for the 4-hour journey to the coast.

It’s a tough day as the race will start at 0900, the sun will already be high in the sky and the heat intense. It’s a day when patience can prevail.
Follow the action as the race unfolds #TCC2018
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- Ragna Debats Skyrunner World Series champion 2017.
- Ester Alves 2016 The Coastal Challenge champion.
- Josephine Adams 6th at MDS Peru 2017.
- Inge Nijkamp 11th at MDS Morocco 2017.
Episode 151 – Carol Morgan
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The Coastal Challenge 2018 Race Preview #TCC2018

The 2018 ‘The Coastal Challenge’ is upon us! Six days, 230.5km of racing and 9543m of vertical gain, 9413m of vertical descent – TCC is more than a challenge!
Follow #TCC2018
Over the years, TCC has grown in stature with an ‘A’ list of elite runners from all over the world. The 2017 edition was won by Salomon International Athletes – Anna Frost and Tom Owens. For 2018, the race steps up a notch with arguably the greatest ever male field assembled for a multi-stage race.

The 2018 edition lists a who’s who of elite runners.
Michael Wardian, a past winner and yours record holder returns. The unstoppable Chema Martinez from Spain returns once again looking for that top spot. Rising GB star, Tom Evans heads for his first rainforest experience after planing 3rd at MDS in 2017. Add to this, the legendary and iconic Timothy Olson, Drgagons Back and Cape Wrath winner, Marcus Scotney and the USA’s rising star and fast-man, Hayden Hawks – needless to say, the rainforest of the Talamancas may be ablaze after these guys have forged a path through its stunning trails.
For the ladies’ Ester Alves returns, a past champion, Ester has just placed 2nd at the Everest Trail Race in Nepal. She will be joined by the Dutch mountain goat and fast lady, Ragna Debats. Our top three female contenders should have been rounded out by Elisabet Barnes but unfortunately, illness has taken its toll and she will not make the start in Quepos.
“Due to several occurrences of cold and flu in the last few months I have had to reevaluate my upcoming race schedule. I have raced nine demanding multi-stage races in the last two years and my body is telling me to back off a bit. I plan to come back stronger and one thing is guaranteed, I will be back at TCC2019 – It is a race I love!”
– Elisabet Barnes

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
Stats:
Total 230.5km
Vertical 9543m
Descent 9413m
Description
Hugging the coastline of the tropical Pacific, TCC is the ultimate multi-day experience that weaves in and out of the Talamancas; a coastal mountain range in the Southwest corner of Central America.
The terrain is ever-changing from wide, dusty and runnable fire trails to dense and muddy mountain trails. Runners will cross rivers, boulders, 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.
THE ROUTE
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 the 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 – mark my words! 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 early breakfast. Around 0400 runners wake and 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 the 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. Pura Vida.
Stage 4


It’s another tough start to the day with a relentless climb, but once at 900m the route is a rollercoaster of relentless small climbs and descents, often littered with technical sections, rainforest, river crossings and boulders. At 30km, it’s a short drop to the road 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 RUNNERS – MALE
Michael Wardian has won the race and set a course record. He knows the lay of the land and if anyone knows how to race hard, day-after-day, it is Mike. You can never bet against him and he always comes ‘to race!’ There is no sandbagging, no pretenses, just a full-on let’s race and let the best man win!

Hayden Hawks burst on the scene in recent years blazing a trail of fast running. He is one of the new breed of trail runner who is moving from the road/ track to the trails. That natural speed is making trail racing faster and faster. Hayden won CCC in 2017 – a huge win. He loves to train with big weeks and TCC will feel like a ‘training week’ but just a whole lot faster… he is a favourite for the win!

Timothy Olson needs no introduction. This man blasted Western States to a whole new level and was the man to beat at any race. A tough 2016 started to overturn in 2017 with a slow but calculated return to form. One of the nicest guys out there, Timothy will bring his love for all things to TCC and will inspire with his feet and his heart. On his day, this guy could rip the legs off the competition.

Tom Evans burst on the scene in 2017 placing 3rd at Marathon des Sables. He played the Moroccans at their own game and had them worried. Interestingly, Michael Wardian also placed 3rd some years ago… Tom placed 4th at the Eiger Ultra and CCC and recently has earned a slot on the GB Squad for the World Trail Championships in May. He is fast and can run technical trails, he has the multi-day format nailed – it is going to be awesome!

Marcus Scotney has represented GB and has won ‘The Challenger’ at the UK’s Spine race, won the Cape Wrath Ultra and most recently, The Dragons Back Race – both of which are gnarly UK multi-stage races. Marcus has all the skills for a great race at TCC, the biggest question may well come with heat adaptation from a cold UK?

Finally, Chema Martinez is slowly but surely become Mr. TCC. He has raced many times and played 2nd year-on-year. Will 2018 be the year when he tips the scales in his favour? Who knows, one thing is for sure, he will race hard every day.
THE RUNNERS – FEMALE

Ester Alves has won the race before and last year placed 3rd. Recently, she placed 2nd at the Everest Trail Race in Nepal. Ester brings experience and excellent mountain/ technical running to TCC and as such, will always be a favourite for the win.

Ragna Debats in recent years has been a revelation mixing fast running (IAU World Trail Champs) with Skyrunning. On paper, Ragna is a hot favourite for victory in Costa Rica. The combination of speed and technical ability may well give her a supreme edge over the competition.

Inge Nijkamp placed 11th at Marathon des Sables and although she won’t appreciate me highlighting her name here, she will be one to watch. Her form, in her own words, “Is not what it should be,’ but, she has the ability and skill to certainly edge onto the podium should all go well.
Of course, we can not rule out the local talent who, over the years, has made the race exhilarating and exciting. We will update this report with a review of both the male and female talent once the race list has been confirmed.
Registration takes place on February 10th
Racing starts on the 11th

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Race website HERE

ELISABET BARNES and MARCUS SCOTNEY – THE COASTAL CHALLENGE 2018 #TCC2018

2015 and 2017 Marathon des Sables ladies champion Elisabet Barnes will join 2016 Cape Wrath Ultra and 2017 Dragons Back Race champion Marcus Scotney on the start line in Quepos for the 2018, The Coastal Challenge.
TCC as it is affectionately known is a multi-day race starting in the southern coastal town of Quepos, Costa Rica and finishing at the stunning Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula. It is an ultimate multi-day running experience that offers a new challenge even to the most experienced runner. Taking place over 6-days, the race hugs the coastline of Costa Rica, traveling in and out of the stunning Talamanca mountain range. Even the strongest competitors are reduced to exhausted shells by the arrival of the finish line due to the combination of technical trails, dense forest, river crossings, waterfalls, long stretches of golden beach, dusty access roads, high ridges and open expansive plains.

The 14th edition of the race is set to be a classic in the making with the confirmation of Barnes and Scotney. Barnes is a two-time winner of the iconic Marathon des Sables and is a two-time finisher of the TCC – 2015 and 2016.

Bitten by the Costa Rica bug and the ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle, Barnes has repeatedly said that the Central American race is her most favourite.
“Costa Rica is a magical place and the TCC is spectacular in so many ways. I work hard in this race because technical running is not my strength, but I love the fact that I get to push my boundaries and challenge myself. The course is just breath taking with great variety, always interesting but not always easy! After a tough day on the trails you are rewarded with yet another stunning campsite, a warm welcome by the dedicated volunteers, and excellent food provided by the hard-working catering team. It’s a race that every runner should add to their bucket list.”

The race looks set to elevate itself to new heights in with the confirmation of Marcus Scotney. Scotney is a highly-respected runner within the UK who has on multiple occasions represented his country on the world ultra-stage. In recent years, he has participated in multi-day races – The Cape Wrath Ultra in Scotland and The Dragons Back Race in Wales. Both races are tough, technical races with many 1000m’s of vertical gain. Scotney won them both and now looks forward to testing himself in the high heat and humidity of Costa Rica.

‘The Coastal Challenge has been on my bucket list of races since 2014, it looks like an amazing beautiful race with a stunning mixture of trail, beach and jungle running. I can’t wait to visit Costa Rica and experience the culture and run a multi-stage race which has a brilliant reputation. I am sure it will live up to that reputation and all that I expect; I feel very privileged to run the race.’
Unlike races such as the Marathon des Sables, TCC is not self-sufficient. Don’t be fooled though, the racing, terrain, heat and climbing make the stages considerably harder and more challenging than the Moroccan adventure. 
“Not carrying equipment is convenient, as is having access to your gear so you can run in fresh clothes every day and change for camp,” Barnes says. “However, the terrain is at times far more difficult than in MDS, and when adding to that the high humidity, you really have a challenge on your hands. Still, I couldn’t think of a better way to spend a week”
Will it be third time lucky for Barnes in Costa Rica, who knows? She certainly has knowledge of the course, an understanding of how to run in the heat and yes, she also knows how to maximize her time to make the most of her racing experience. For Scotney, the challenge will be a new one. He will love all the faster sections of the course where he will be able to unleash his natural running speed. The challenges will come with the technical terrain and of course the heat combined with the humidity.

The 2018 edition of TCC is already looking like a stunning race and in the coming months, several other elite athletes will be announced who will participate in this classic race.
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The Coastal Challenge
Facebook HERE
Website (UK) HERE
Website (Global) HERE
The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 4

Day 4 of the Cape Wrath Ultra was a stunner, no, it was amazing! The early morning cold temperatures and icy wind lifted to show the highlands in their true magnificence and what a course… today was arguably THE day of the Cape Wrath Ultra.
Just 69 runners (from 95) are left in the race, yes, the first 3-days have really started to hit! Although day-4 was a ‘recovery’ day (heard in the camp this morning!) of 22 miles, it was still a day of epic challenges and one seriously beautiful course. In particular, the section of trail from CP1 (on the A896) in the Glen Torridon that weaved it’s way up and up via a stony path between Spidean a Choire Leith and Spidean Coire nan Clach to the amazing cauldron that backed onto Loch Coire Mhic Fhearchair. This is a stunning place! Despite tired legs, fatigue, pain and no matter what ailments, this place put a smile on every single participants face.
It may come as no surprise that Marcus Scotney once again lead the charge. He was instructed by event director, Shane Ohly, that under no circumstances must he start before 0900. For the remaining runners, the start window of 0700-0900 was open and many, despite fatigue, still decided to leave early in the hope that they would be back in camp to gain additional rest at the end of the day.
Finishing in Kinlochewe, Scotney stopped the clock in 4:05:52 and although Thomas Adams had been very close to hime at the midway point, he lost more time at the finish with a 4:22:22. Ian White finished 3rd and Pavel Paloncy finished 4th, their respective times 4:41:23 and 4:42:32 – looks like we may have a fight on our hands for 3rd place with Paloncy just 9-minutes advantage.
For the ladies, Ita Emanuela Marzotto was back on form today, with a definite, ‘I love the mountains!’ as she moved past me on the trail. Her time of 6:14:51 extended her lead over Laura Watson (overall ladies 2nd place) who finished in 6:42:26. However, 2nd lady on the stage and 3rd lady overall, Louise Staples stopped the clock in 6:34:04. We may have a battle on our hands for the ladies podium?
Ultimately, today was all about blue skies, white clouds and the stunning highlands, even Marcus Scotney stopped to grab some photos on his phone! Today was a special day and one that all the runners will not forget.
Roll on day 5 which once again is a (relative) shorter day of 27-miles and 1400m+ to Inverlael.
Follow the race and get more information http://www.capewrathultra.com

The Cape Wrath Ultra™ 2016 – Day 3

A ‘runnable’ day played into Marcus Scotney’s hands and pulling of a three-in-three stage win he once again consolidated his overall lead by another 20+ minutes for convincing lead overall. For the ladies, Laura Watson today took a stage victory by just over 1-minute from overall ladies race leader, Ita Manuela Mariotto.
At 68km long, it was a long and tough day, considerably coming on the back of a tough day 2. Although considered a course that would allow more running, the 2400m of ascent added to the difficulty. Unfortunately, the day didn’t start well for a couple of runners, Darren Grigas and Peter Fairhurst who made a huge navigational error and went completely off course and causing a minor concern from the safety team – a message was sent to the runners informing them that they were off course and to take evasive action. Unfortunately they missed the cut-off time at CP1 and therefore were withdrawn from the race in a competitive nature. It was a huge blow for both runners, particularly Peter who was in a top-position.
At the time of writing (21:30) just 49 runners had completed the day 3 course with 13 confirmed additional confirmed dnf and the remaining 32 fighting the cut-off times for a finish.
Departing Kinloch Hourn between 0700-0900, most runners maximised the additional time and left as close to 0700 as possible in an attempt to make Acanshellach before 2300 hours.
The sun was out, the skies were blue and white fluffy clouds occasionally offered some cover from the heat of the day but it was a tough day and only Scotney (7:49:09) and Mariotto (11:56:24) made the day look easy. For the remaining runners it was a day of struggle and survival. Thomas Adams (8:11:29) remained consistent running 2nd (once again) but Pavel Paloncy (10:00:58) seemed to struggle today and looked to be fighting the terrain, he finished the stage 5th over 1hr and 10min behind Scotney. Ian White (9:31:22) ran another good stage and today finished 3rd.
Ita Manuela Mariotto and Louise Staples ran a consistent day 3 and consolidated their respective overall top-3 places with11:56:24 and 12:18:38.
Stage 4 is a arguably a recovery day at 22-miles finishing in the town of Kinlochewe.
Overall standings after day-3
- Marcus Scotney 16:58:06
- Thomas Adams 17:36:28
- Pavel Paloncy 20:24:51
- Ita Manuela Mariotto 25:29:00
- Laura Watson 25:54:06
- Louise Staples 26:30:40
Follow Cape Wrath Ultra LIVE http://www.capewrathultra.com

Episode 79 – Amdahl Pascall Kimball
Episode 79 of Talk Ultra is another packed show! We speak with HK100 2nd placed runner, Sondre Amdahl. We also speak to the female winner of the UK’s, The Spine, Beth Pascall. Nikki Kimball discusses her incredible 2014 season with victory at Marathon Des Sables, top-5 at Western States Endurance Run and winning Run Rabbit Run. The News, a Blog, Up & Coming Races and Speedgoat Karl Meltzer.
Argentina
Columbia Cruce de los Andes | 90 kilometers | February 05, 2015 | website
Queensland
Beerwah at Night – 50 km | 51 kilometers | January 25, 2015 | website
Caboolture Historical Village Dusk to Dawn 100km | 100 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Caboolture Historical Village Dusk to Dawn 50km | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Chile
El Cruce Columbia | 103 kilometers | February 05, 2015 | website
Costa Rica
Coastal Challenge | 250 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
France
Tarn
La Ronde Givrée | 62 kilometers | February 01, 2015 | website
Germany
Bavaria
Chiemsee-Ultramarathon Januar | 108 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Brandenburg
HallenMarathon 50km Ultra-Lauf | 50 kilometers | January 25, 2015 | website
Hesse
Rodgau 50km Ultramarathon | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
India
Thar Desert Run – 100 miles | 100 miles | February 06, 2015 | website
The Great White Rann – Run of Kutch – 135 Miles | 135 miles | February 06, 2015 | website
The Great White Rann – Run of Kutch – 160 km | 160 kilometers | February 06, 2015 | website
The Great White Rann – Run of Kutch – 50 km | 50 kilometers | February 06, 2015 | website
The Great White Rann – Run of Kutch – 80 km | 80 kilometers | February 06, 2015 | website
Kenya
Kimbia Kenya 100 km | 100 kilometers | January 30, 2015 | website
Kimbia Kenya 50 km | 50 kilometers | January 30, 2015 | website
New Zealand
The James Mountain Stampede Ultra | 50 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Nicaragua
Survival Run: Nicaragua | 70 kilometers | February 04, 2015 | website
Oman
Wadi Bih Run | 72 kilometers | February 06, 2015 | website
Réunion
Transvolcano | 52 kilometers | January 25, 2015 | website
Thailand
The North Face 100® – Thailand | 100 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
The North Face 100® – Thailand – 50 km Solo | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
United Kingdom
Cornwall
Arc of Attrition | 100 miles | February 06, 2015 | website
Lancashire
Marmot Dark Mountains™ – Elite Course | 53 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Milton Keynes
Quadzilla | 164 kilometers | February 05, 2015 | website
Surrey
The Pilgrim Challenge North Downs Way Multistage Ultra | 66 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
USA
Alabama
Mountain Mist 50K Trail Run | 50 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Arizona
Coldwater Rumble 100 Mile Trail Run | 100 miles | January 24, 2015 | website
Coldwater Rumble – 52K | 52 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Coldwater Rumble – 52 Mile | 52 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Race Across Arizona – Beeline and Beyond (4 Marathons) | 106 miles | February 06, 2015 | website
Race Across Arizona – Border to Border (15 Marathons) | 405 miles | January 28, 2015 | website
Race Across Arizona – Valley of the Sun (4 Marathons) | 106 miles | January 30, 2015 | website
California
Folsom South Side Trail 38 Mile Run | 38 miles | January 24, 2015 | website
Folsom South Side Trail 50K Run | 50 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Fort Ord Trail Run 50K | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Ordnance 100K | 100 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Race Across California – Desert Challenge (4 Marathons) | 107 miles | January 23, 2015 | website
Spooner’s Cove 50 Km Trail Run | 50 kilometers | January 25, 2015 | website
Colorado
Frozen Dead Guy 50km | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Florida
Ragnar Relay Florida Keys | 199 miles | February 06, 2015 | website
Skydive Ultra 100M Run | 100 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
Skydive Ultra 50 km Run | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Skydive Ultra 50M Run | 50 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
Massachusetts
Cape Cod Frozen Fat Ass 50 km | 50 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Minnesota
Arrowhead 135 mile Winter Ultramarathon | 135 miles | January 26, 2015 | website
New York
The Beast of Burden Winter 100 Miler | 100 miles | January 24, 2015 | website
North Carolina
North Carolina Fat Ass 50k | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Ohio
Run for Regis 50K | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Texas
Rocky Raccoon 100 Mile | 100 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
Rocky Raccoon 50 Mile | 50 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
Winter Festival Goat 50K | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Winter Festival Goat 50 Mile | 50 miles | January 31, 2015 | website
Utah
Snowshoe Festival 50K | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Washington
Lake Youngs NUTS 50K Run | 50 kilometers | January 31, 2015 | website
Venezuela
Ultra Laguna de Urao | 65 kilometers | January 24, 2015 | website
Virgin Islands (USA)
St. Croix Scenic 50 km | 50 kilometers | January 25, 2015 | website
03:19:19
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