COUNTDOWN TO MDS LEGENDARY 2026 – ISSUE THREE

Posted on March 16, 2026 by talkultra

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s walk through it together.

The Evolution of the Race

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arriving in Morocco

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

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

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

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

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

From this point forward, the desert becomes your home.

Life in the Bivouac

Bivouac life is simple. Very simple.

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

There are a few practical rules that quickly become important:

• Toilets are installed throughout the bivouac and at checkpoints.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• collect your daily water

• ask questions

• check rankings

• access medical support if needed

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

A few other important bivouac rules:

• Never light a fire within 50 cm of tents

• Do not walk barefoot

• Drop empty water bottles at designated recycling points

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

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

The First Administrative Day

Administrative day begins at 9:00 AM.

This is when everything becomes official.

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

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

Before heading to the checks, prepare the required documents:

• Passport

• Completed technical control form

• Medical certificate

• Resting electrocardiogram (ECG)

During the admin process you will:

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

2. Present your documents and mandatory equipment.

3. Have your race pack weighed.

4. Undergo medical verification.

5. Receive your GPS beacon.

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

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

Later in the day:

• 4:30 PM – Stage briefing

• 6:00 PM – 40th anniversary photo session

The race is now very real.

A Typical Day in the Desert

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

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

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

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

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

• water distribution

• medical presence

• toilets and hygiene supplies

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

Each evening the Info Tent and medical clinic are open.

Safety in the Desert

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

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

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

At night during a stage, headlamps are mandatory.

Navigation and Desert Conditions

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

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

Sandstorms

If a sandstorm arrives:

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

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

• stay close to other runners

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

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

If You Become Lost

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

1. Stop and assess your position.

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

3. Backtrack for up to ten minutes if necessary.

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

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

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

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

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

Medical Requirements

All runners declare medical information during registration.

During race checks, you must present:

• an original medical certificate

• a resting ECG

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

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

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

The Stages

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

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

Stages include:

• Stage 1: 37 km

• Stage 2: 41 km

• Stage 3: 29 km

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

• Stage 5: 42 km

• Stage 6: 21 km

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

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

After Each Stage

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

Start with a recovery drink before preparing food.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And the bivouac itself becomes something special.

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

Many runners say the friendships formed here last a lifetime.

That is the spirit of Marathon des Sables.

After the Finish on Stage 6

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

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

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

What comes next is simple but glorious:

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

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

After that, the journey home begins.

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

MDS WEBSITE HERE

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

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

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

OUREA EVENTS CEASE TRADING – A SAD DAY

Posted on March 13, 2026 by talkultra

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But it also raises bigger questions.

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

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

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

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

What happens now?

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

And what happens to the races themselves?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

COUNTDOWN TO MDS LEGENDARY 2026 – ISSUE ONE

Posted on March 2, 2026 by talkultra

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

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

The Shape of the 2026 Race

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

Six stages. Seven days. All timed.

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

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

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

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

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

A likely outline might be:

Stage 1: 32km (Day 1) – total 32km

Stage 2: 38km (Day 2) – total 70km

Stage 3: 36km (Day 3) – total 106km

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

Stage 5: 42km (Day 6) – total 248km

Stage 6: 21km (Day 7) – total 269km

Total: approximately 269km +/-

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

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

Before the Race Even Starts

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

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

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

From there, the structure usually follows this pattern:

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

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

Day 3 – Stage 1

Day 4 – Stage 2

Day 5 – Stage 3

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

Day 8 – Stage 5

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

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

Day 11 – Airport transfers. End of the adventure.

Bivouac Reality

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

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

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

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

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

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

Minimum weight: 6.5kg excluding 1.5 lts of water.

Minimum food: 2000 calories per day.

All mandatory kit must be present.

No exceptions.

Water Strategy Has Changed

Since 2024, water provision has evolved.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Salt Is Now Non-Negotiable

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

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

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

Feet: The Deciding Factor

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

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

Ignore your feet at your peril.

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

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

Safety on Course

The race operates under strict safety protocols.

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

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

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

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

Mandatory Equipment Means Mandatory

You must carry:

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

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

Calories: The Real Numbers

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

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

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

To break it down clearly:

Stage 1 – 14,000 calories remaining

Stage 2 – 12,000 calories remaining

Stage 3 – 10,000 calories remaining

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

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

Stage 5 – 4,000 calories remaining

Stage 6 – 2,000 calories remaining

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

Essential Personal Kit

Beyond mandatory equipment and food, you will need:

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

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

For repairs, consider:

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

Equipment can fail. Plan for that.

Final Practical Advice

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

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

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

Start conservatively. Ease into the race.

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

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

Protect your feet from day one.

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

MDS WEBSITE HERE

MDS Tour and MDS Clubs for 2026

Join the MDS Clubs on HEYLO HERE.

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

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

facebook.com/iancorlessphotography

Web – www.iancorless.com

Web – www.iancorlessphotography.com

THE COASTAL CHALLENGE 2027 – ENTRIES OPEN

Posted on March 1, 2026 by talkultra

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

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

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

Two Race Options: Expedition and Adventure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ready to Sign Up?

The 2027 race entry is $3,050.

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

REGISTER HERE

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

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

More reading

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

You can read daily summaries from the 2026 edition HERE

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

Follow Ian Corless

Instagram – @iancorlessphotography

Twitter – @talkultra

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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 4

Posted on February 11, 2026 by talkultra

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

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

Men’s Race

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

Behind them, the real battle unfolded.

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

Women’s Race

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

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

Adventure Category

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 3

Posted on February 10, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 3 of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica is always circled in red. The Queen Stage. The day that defines the race. The stage that strips things back to effort, patience, and decision-making. On paper it is long and brutal. On the ground, it is something else entirely.

The morning stars with the coast, in the quiet half-light where the jungle still holds the night. Runners gathered with headlamps flickering, shoes already damp from the humidity. The air was heavy but mercifully cooler than previous days. Low cloud sat over the hills. It would prove to be a gift.

Almost immediately, the course dropped into a wide riverbed. This opening section is deceptive. It looks runnable, even friendly. Pale stones, shallow flowing water, open sky above. But riverbed running is never free speed. Every step shifts. Ankles work overtime. Shoes fill with water within minutes. The rhythm becomes uneven, a constant negotiation between pace and balance. Some runners hopped rock to rock, trying to keep their feet dry. Others accepted the soak and drove straight through, splashing forward with purpose.

The sound here was distinctive. Footsteps slapping water. Heavy breathing echoing off the valley walls. Occasional shouts as someone slipped or laughed at the futility of staying clean. This was Costa Rica announcing itself early.

As the river narrowed, the trail began to rise. Jungle closed in. Thick green walls pressed close, vines hanging low, the smell of wet earth and vegetation everywhere. Heat built quickly once the climbing started, but the cloud cover held. No direct sun. No baking. For this stage, that mattered more than almost anything.

Then came Nauyaca Waterfalls.

Few race courses pass somewhere this iconic. The roar of the falls could be heard long before they were seen, a deep, constant thunder. Mist hung in the air. The trail twisted along the edge, offering brief, almost cinematic glimpses of white water crashing down into turquoise pools far below. Volunteers stood grinning, clapping runners through, knowing exactly how cruel it is to pass somewhere so beautiful with no time to stop.

The climbs around the waterfalls were short but sharp. Legs were already feeling the cost of the riverbed. Breathing became laboured. Sweat mixed with spray from the falls. It felt primal. Raw. A reminder that this race is as much about environment as distance.

After Nauyaca, the stage changed character again. The trail rolled relentlessly. Up. Down. Some long climbs you can settle into. No extended descents to recover. Just constant undulation through jungle, farmland, and rough tracks. This is where the Queen Stage earns its reputation.

The terrain was hard and punishing. Exposed dirt roads baked under thinning cloud. Narrow singletrack where roots and rocks waited to catch tired feet. Every rise felt unnecessary. Every dip stole momentum. It was a section that demanded discipline. Go too hard, and the coast would destroy you later. Hold back too much, and you’d bleed time you’d never get back.

At the front, Erick Aguero was putting on another master class.

Aguero’s racing here is never flashy. No surges for the crowd. No dramatic moves. Just relentless forward motion. Smooth cadence. Perfect pack management. He ran like someone who knows this land, understands the humidity, respects the distance. While others visibly fought the course, Aguero flowed with it. By the time the terrain began to open and the air shifted, his advantage was already established.

Eventually, after hours inland, something changed. The breeze arrived first. Salty. Cool. Then the light brightened. And suddenly, unmistakably, the coast appeared.

This transition is one of the great moments of the race. Jungle gives way to open sky. The sound of waves replaces insects. The vastness of the Pacific stretches out ahead. Runners hit the sands near the start of the Adventure course, knowing the end is closer now, but also knowing that beaches come with their own price.

The sand was soft in places, compact in others. Feet sank, calves screamed. The trail wove along the coastline, ducking in and out of shaded sections, then back onto open beach. Offshore, the famous Whale Tail formation of Marino Ballena National Park stood out clearly, a natural landmark that feels almost surreal when you’re deep into a long race.

There was beauty here, but also vulnerability. The sun broke through the cloud intermittently. Reflections off the water were harsh. Runners could smell salt on their skin. Aid stations felt like lifelines. Ice, cola, encouragement in multiple languages.

The final kilometres into Ballena Village were a test of stubbornness. Legs heavy. Feet blistered. Packs lighter but shoulders sore. The finish line came slowly, deliberately, making runners earn every step.

Aguero crossed first in 6:26:41, calm, composed, as if he had expected nothing else. Behind him, Jon Shield fought hard to secure second in 6:54:50, holding off a strong late push from Joe Matheson, who finished just over a minute later in 6:56:02. All three looked spent. All three knew they had survived the hardest day.

In the women’s Expedition race, the story was familiar. A repeat of the previous stage with a dominant Denise Zelaya in control from the front. No drama. Just execution. On a day like this, consistency matters more than heroics. Janina Beck finished 2nd 8:57:19 with Vanessa Duran 3rd in 9:34:11.

Results at webscorer.com

In the Adventure category Laura Zuñiga crossed in 5:40:27 with Toni Clarke close behind 5:45:42, it’s a battle between the two, and Kristel polet 5:46:04 in 3rd. For the men, once again Sammy Francis lead Alberto Gil, 5:20:23 and 5:22:28 respectively. Roberto Solano was 3rd in 5:40:20.

Stage 3 didn’t just shuffle the leaderboard. It revealed it. It exposed weaknesses, rewarded patience, and reminded everyone why The Coastal Challenge is respected worldwide. Long after the finish line buzz faded and runners collapsed into shade with food and cold drinks, the Queen Stage lingered

It always does.

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

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 2

Posted on February 9, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 2 of The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica delivered exactly what this race is known for: raw nature, relentless conditions, and a course that asks runners to adapt again and again. Starting deep in the rainforest at Rafiki Lodge, the day unfolded as a true Coastal Challenge classic, blending river crossings, technical trails, jungle heat, and a dramatic run to the sea.

From the first steps out of camp, it was clear this would not be a straightforward stage. The route followed the Savegre River, widely regarded as one of the cleanest and most biologically pristine rivers in Central America. Flowing from the highlands of the Talamanca Mountains down to the Pacific Ocean, the Savegre is internationally recognised for its exceptional water quality and rich biodiversity. Crossing it once would be memorable. Crossing it twice turned Stage 2 into something special.

The river crossings were more than just obstacles. They were moments that forced runners to slow down, focus, and respect the environment around them. Water rose around calves and knees, current tugged at tired legs, and the contrast between cool river water and the heavy jungle air was striking. It was a reminder that this race is as much about managing nature as it is about racing the clock.

After the river, the course tightened and twisted through rainforest trails. Roots, mud, and uneven ground demanded constant attention. The humidity settled in early and stayed all day. Even experienced runners felt the energy drain as the sun climbed higher. This is where The Coastal Challenge often reshuffles the deck, and Stage 2 was no exception.

For the Adventure race, the day began at CP2, roughly the midpoint of the Expedition route. While the distance was shorter, the challenge remained very real. Adventure runners faced the same heat, the same technical terrain, and the same unforgiving humidity. Starting later on the course offered no easy miles, only a condensed dose of everything Costa Rica can throw at a runner.

As both races pushed westward, the landscape began to change. Dense jungle gradually opened up, trails widened, and the distant sound of the ocean hinted at what was to come. Crossing road 34 marked a psychological shift. From there, runners entered the estuaries and beaches that lead toward Dominical. Soft sand replaced dirt, and the open coastline exposed runners to full sun with no shelter. Legs already fatigued now had to adapt once more.

This final section summed up Stage 2 perfectly. After jungle, rivers, and trails, the beach demanded a different kind of strength. Running on sand punished tired calves and slowed even the strongest athletes. Heat radiated from above and below. Yet the sight of the Pacific Ocean and the energy around the finish made it unforgettable.

At the front of the Expedition race, the men’s competition came alive. After a controlled and measured Stage 1, Erick Aguero delivered what many have come to recognise as a classic ‘Aguero’ performance. He pushed early, established himself at the front, and gradually opened a gap that no one could close. His strength through the technical sections and consistency in the heat paid off, as he crossed the line in a commanding 4:49:04 – al this despite receiving a dog bite during the race.

Behind him, the battle for the remaining podium places was hard-fought. Jesus Cerdas Padilla ran a strong and steady race to claim second in 5:11:54. Stage 1 winner Ramon Rosello Pons followed in third with a time of 5:24:03. With this result, Aguero moved into the overall lead, setting up an intriguing dynamic for the stages ahead.

In the women’s Expedition race, Denise Zelaya was in a class of her own. From early on, she looked composed and controlled, handling the heat and terrain with confidence. Her dominance was clear as the stage wore on, and she crossed the finish line in 5:59:12, underlining her strength and experience in these conditions. It was a decisive performance on a demanding day.

Janina Beck and Pamela Muñoz placed 2nd and 3rd, 7:05:12 and 7:11:12 respectively.

The Adventure race delivered its own drama. Sammy Francis led the way, crossing first in 3:40:51 after a determined run through the heat and sand. The fight for second was tight and exciting. Toni Clarke, the Stage 1 leader, finished second, just over 30 seconds behind Laura Zuniga Alcazar, who crossed in 3:59:28. The close times reflected the intensity of the race and the way Stage 2 squeezed every bit of effort from the field.

Beyond results and times, Stage 2 captured the essence of The Coastal Challenge. It was tough, unpredictable, and deeply connected to the landscape. Runners were forced to think, adapt, and endure. The Savegre River crossings stood out as defining moments, but the entire course demanded respect.

By the end of the day, fatigue was written on every face. Salt streaked skin, mud-caked legs, and tired smiles told the story better than words. It was a hard day, but an exciting one. Stage 2 reminded everyone why this race holds such a special place in the world of stage racing, it has a little of everything, and it never gives anything away easily. Let’s not forget, Dominical is also an awesome place for camp.

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

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The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica 2026 – Stage 1

Posted on February 8, 2026 by talkultra

Stage 1 of the 2026 The Coastal Challenge Costa Rica set the tone in the way it always does. It reminded everyone, very quickly, that Costa Rica plays by its own rules.

The day began long before sunrise. At 02:30, alarms cut through the darkness as runners gathered for a 03:30 departure, quiet conversations, nervous energy. There is something uniquely disorienting about starting a race day in the middle of the night, especially when the real work will not begin for several more hours. The long drive to the coast and Quepos was filled with anticipation and the kind of silence that comes when athletes are saving energy and thoughts for later.

By the time the start line finally came into view, just after 08:00, the sun was already making its presence known. The heat and humidity were not waiting for anyone. They never do. Stage 1 has a reputation, and once again it lived up to it. Starting late in the morning is always a challenge here. Bodies are not yet adapted, pacing plans are optimistic, and the Costa Rican climate is unforgiving if respect is not shown early.

From the beach start, the course wasted no time in revealing its character. Soft sand gave way to gravel roads, then into dense rainforest where the air felt heavier with every step. Climbs were sharp and relentless, descents technical and punishing on tired legs, and water crossings offered brief moments of relief before the heat closed in again. This was not a gentle introduction. This was pure Costa Rica.

In the Expedition race, Ramon Rosello took control early and never let it slip. He dictated the pace with confidence, moving smoothly through the terrain while others struggled to find rhythm. By the latter stages of the course, he had opened a substantial gap, finishing in a commanding 3:57:03. Behind him, Jon Shield fought hard in the conditions, crossing the line in 4:14:02. It was a clear statement from Rosello on a day where patience and experience mattered as much as speed.

Attention had been on Erick Aguirro going into the stage, with many expecting him to lead the day. However, a lingering injury told its own story. Though still competitive, Aguirro was unable to respond when the pace lifted, eventually finishing fourth behind Jesus Cerdas. On a course like this, even the smallest physical issue is magnified. Stage 1 has a way of exposing weaknesses, and there is little room to hide when the heat begins to bite.

In the women’s Expedition race, Denise Zelaya delivered a strong and controlled performance. She handled the conditions well, maintaining focus and discipline as others faded, to cross the line in 4:47:47. Janina Beck followed in 5:19:25, digging deep through the final kilometres as the accumulated fatigue of the day took hold. Both athletes showed the importance of measured pacing on a stage where ambition can quickly turn into survival.

The Adventure race brought its own drama and determination. Toni Clark led the women with a time of 4:29:41, showing resilience and strength across the varied terrain. For the men, Sammy Francis topped the standings in 3:45:28, navigating the course with efficiency and confidence. Across both races, the story was the same. Those who respected the day were rewarded. Those who did not paid for it.

Stage 1 is always tough, but it is especially brutal because the runners are not yet adapted to the environment. The heat punishes fast starts. The humidity steals energy quietly and persistently. Even seasoned athletes find themselves recalibrating expectations within the first hour. This year was no different. Faces at the finish told the story clearly. Relief, exhaustion, and a newfound respect for what lies ahead.

Costa Rica is at the heart of this race, not just as a location, but as a character in its own right. The diversity of the landscape is extraordinary. One moment you are running along the coastline with the Pacific at your side, the next you are climbing through thick jungle where the sounds of wildlife surround you. The beauty is undeniable, but it comes with a cost. Every climb, every descent, every humid kilometre demands something in return.

As runners made their way into Rafiki Lodge, recovery became the immediate focus. Cooling down, rehydrating, and reflecting on lessons learned. Many arrived with sore legs and humbled minds. Stage 1 has a habit of reshaping race strategies, and this year it was no exception. There was a shared understanding among competitors that the race had truly begun.

Tomorrow brings Stage 2, and with it, a much earlier start for the Expedition runners. Those early hours promise more comfortable conditions, at least by Costa Rican standards. The heat will still come, but later. For now, the priority is rest, refuelling, and preparation. The Coastal Challenge is not won on the first day, but it can certainly be lost.

Stage 1 from Quepos to Rafiki Lodge delivered everything it promised. Heat, humidity, challenge, and beauty in equal measure. It reminded everyone why this race is so highly regarded, and why Costa Rica demands respect. The journey has only just begun, and already it has left its mark.

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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