MDS 120 Cappadocia 2025 – Race Summary

Posted on June 30, 2025 by talkultra

There are races that test your legs. There are others that test your mind. Then there’s the MDS 120 Cappadocia, a four-day,3-stage footrace that breaks down and rebuilds runner’s in one of the most staggering landscapes on Earth.

The second edition of this extraordinary event was nothing short of epic. It fused the spirit of ultra-running with the magic of deep time, where each participant pushed through heat, fatigue, and self-doubt and yet felt part of something much larger, something ancient, something eternal.

Cappadocia is not a place that’s easily explained. Words fall short, pictures get close, but to run through it, that’s where the real story begins. From the first light of dawn to the finish line and the glow of the medal, the 2025 MDS 120 Cappadocia offered an experience that was brutal, beautiful, and of course, unforgettable.

Runners arrived from across the globe with 25 countries represented to stand on the start line beneath towering rock formations that look like they belong on another planet. With female participation at a record 62%!

Trails cut through a high-altitude dreamscape where volcanoes once erupted, empires rose and fell, and entire civilisations carved homes into the rock. To run here is to move through living history, a living museum of geology, culture, and time itself. Cappadocia is the kind of place that feels mythic. Its valleys have names like Love, Rose, and Red.

The format of the race was designed to challenge runners of all levels while still demanding serious endurance. The full race spanned up to 120 kms over three stages, spread across four days with one rest day in the middle. Stage 1 and Stage 3 were the same for all runners, but Stage 2 offered a unique choice: 20, 40, or 60 kms, allowing each participant to tailor their challenge to their ability and ambition. This approach gave the event a powerful sense of inclusivity while preserving the core of what MDS stands for: pushing yourself farther than you thought you could go.

“The terrain, however, had no intention of making anything easy.”

Each day brought something different, a test of legs, lungs, and willpower. Stage 1 began with a baptism of dust and stone, leading runners through twisting canyons and across ancient paths etched into the volcanic rock. The climbs were relentless. The descents were technical and punishing.

Stage 2, whether 20, 40, or the full 60 kms, was a crucible in the heat, sending runners through sun-scorched valleys and across ridges with no shade and no mercy.

It was here that the Cappadocian sun made itself known. Temperatures soared into the mid-30s Celsius, radiating off the rocks and baking every exposed inch of trail. What began as a scenic adventure quickly became a battle against dehydration, overheating, and sheer exhaustion. The ‘orange’ jackets ensuring that medical protocols and safety for each runner was paramount.

The rest day was welcome, a day to re-charge, relax, eat, sleep and yes, even some yoga was an opportunity to find some zen amongst the chimneys that surrounded bivouac.

Stage 3, the finale, was no victory lap. It was a final reckoning. After the rest day, legs were stiff, feet swollen and raw, but spirits were high.

The route wound past ancient cave dwellings and hidden churches, finishing in a dramatic final stretch that felt more like a pilgrimage than a race. The Love Valley an amazing conclusion to a stunning journey.

Four runners, despite grit and effort, didn’t make it to the end. But in the spirit of MDS, the organization extended them free entry into the 2026 edition, a gesture that underscores the ethos of the race: resilience over results, and community over competition.

What makes MDS 120 Cappadocia unique isn’t just the landscape or the difficulty. It’s the way it all comes together. The suffering is real, but so is the reward. Every runner finished with a story that could never be captured in a finisher’s medal alone. There were tears, high fives, sunburns, hallucinations, and moments of silence that felt like communion with the land.

And just when it seemed the adventure was over, the organisers gave one final gift: a sunrise hot air balloon flight on the last morning. It wasn’t a tourist gimmick, it was a floating tribute to everything the runners had just done. Watching the sun rise over the Göreme Valley, suspended in silence above the trails they’d conquered, was a moment that stitched the entire experience together. From above, the rock valleys, the winding trails, the start and finish lines, it all made sense. It was breathtaking.

After the balloon flight, runners were finally allowed to stop. A full day of rest and recovery followed, giving battered bodies a chance to relax and reconnect. The evening brought everyone back together for a gala dinner, an award ceremony that celebrated not just the fastest, but the toughest and most spirited. Pierre (a single leg amputee) and Leon getting special recognition for personifying the meaning of MDS solidarity.

A film screening that captured the emotion and scale of what had unfolded over the past four days. Laughter mixed with tears. Strangers had become teammates. Solo runners had become family.

The verdict from every corner was the same: this race had delivered something extraordinary. It had pushed people to their edges and rewarded them with a kind of beauty, depth, and meaning that’s rare in the ultra-running world.

MDS 120 Cappadocia wasn’t just a race across Turkey. It was a race through deep time, a personal reckoning, and a reminder of what the human body and spirit can endure when the landscape is fierce, and the story is this good.

The bar is set. The expectations are high. But if the 2025 edition proved anything, it’s that this race is only getting better, stronger, and more awe-inspiring.

If you’re looking for an ultra that leaves a mark, not just on your legs, but on your soul: get ready for the 2026 dates, registration opens July 9th 2025.

Pack your shoes. Respect the heat. And come run through fire and stone in Cappadocia.

Marathon des Sables website HERE

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MDS 120 Cappadocia 2025 – Stage 3

Posted on June 27, 2025 by talkultra

Stage 3 of the MDS 120 Cappadocia delivered a brutal, beautiful reckoning. Spanning 26 kms under a punishing sun, the course cut through some of Turkey’s most iconic landscapes, from the pastel walls of Red Valley to the towering spires of Love Valley. But make no mistake: this stage wasn’t just about scenery. It was a furnace.

With temperatures soaring past 36°C and a heat index that felt closer to 48°C the early start with hot air balloons was welcome.

Even so, runners were fighting the heat within minutes. Shade was rare, and the terrain offered no favours: narrow single tracks, slot canyons, technical descents, and long exposed stretches tested every step.

By mid-morning, the route through Love Valley felt less like a romantic postcard and more like a slow-motion survival drill.

Despite the conditions, runners dug deep. The lead pack charged forward with astonishing control, weaving through the heat haze with purpose, but it was the back of the pack that showed the rawest version of the struggle. Blistered feet, overheated cores, and sheer exhaustion painted a stark picture of just how hard-earned every kilometer was.

Crossing the finish line at the edge of Love Valley brought a wave of emotion. Some wept, others collapsed. The medal placed around each finisher’s neck wasn’t just symbolic, it was earned in full, mile by scorching mile. For many, it marked the toughest test they’d ever faced in a race.

From first to last, the results were staggering. All athletes held their nerve in the heat, but it was the collective will of the entire field that defined the day. This was more than a stage, it was a battle. And everyone who crossed that line came out the other side changed.

Blue and Orange jackets make it all happen

Stage 3 didn’t give anyone an easy finis. It demanded everything. The landscape may have been romantic, but the race was ruthless. The medal, deserved!

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MDS 120 Cappadocia 2025 – Stage 2

Posted on June 25, 2025 by talkultra

Stage 2 of the 2025 MDS 120 Cappadocia tested every ounce of determination runners had left in the tank.

The day began with a 4:00 AM wake-up call under a pitch-black sky.

By the time the starting line buzzed to life, the first glow of sunrise was filled with dozens of hot air balloons over the otherworldly landscape, a surreal and unforgettable sendoff into a brutal, beautiful day. This is what makes MDS 120 Cappadocia so special.

Blue coats, a key and important element of MDS 120.

Participants had a choice: 20km, 40.9km, or 58.6km. Three distances, one shared battle. No matter which course they committed to, the terrain made sure no one got an easy ride.

From the start, runners faced a punishing mix of steep canyons, tight tunnels, dusty switchbacks, and rocky plateaus.

The famed Cappadocia chimneys, towering rock formations sculpted by time and wind rose like sentinels along the route, offering brief moments of awe in between relentless stretches of heat and effort.

At times, dense vegetation clawed at legs and arms. Elsewhere, there was nothing but the sun, dry air, and the crunch of feet against rock and dust.

The longer the distance, the deeper the challenge. The sun bore down with intent, turning even the breezes into blasts from a hair dryer. Hydration and mindset became as critical as foot placement. There were stumbles, cramps, and moments of silence where only the sound of breath and grit kept runners going. This is where the MDS 120 orange (medical) and blue (logistics) help keep the runner’s going, importantly, they bring a key safety element to the race.

Maëva, our last finisher receiving treatment just 4km’s from the finish.

But they did go. Every last one of them.

The final competitors crossed the line after an incredible 16 hours and 25 minutes on the move. A huge shoutout to Maëva and Clémment, who showed unreal resilience and heart, pushing through to the very end.

To all who took on Stage 2, no matter the distance, no matter the time, today you didn’t just run through Cappadocia. You conquered it.

Tomorrow brings the third and final stage, concluding in the Love Valley.

Marathon des Sables website HERE

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Lofoten Stage Run 2025: A Wild Dance with Nature

Posted on June 2, 2025 by talkultra

There are races, and then there’s the Lofoten Stage Run by The Arctic Triple team. What unfolded in May 2025 wasn’t just a footrace; it was a deep, soul-grinding, awe-inspiring journey through one of the world’s most arresting landscapes. Four stages. Two distances, 170 km and 100 km.

Across wild coasts, knife-edge ridges, fishing villages, and snow-streaked mountains, runners pushed their limits, and often redefined them, surrounded by the raw power and beauty of Norway’s Lofoten archipelago. Sleep came in hytte and seaside rorbuer; rest was fleeting, but memories were burned in.

Stage 1: Into the Wild – Kjerkfjorden to Nusfjord (39 km / 20 km)

The race began like a dream: a boat ride through cold, steel-blue fjords, cliffs rising on all sides like the jaws of some ancient creature. As runners disembarked at Kjerkfjorden, the silence was broken only by soft footsteps and shallow breaths, nerves on edge, anticipation sharp.

The terrain wasted no time. A steep climb out of the fjord led straight into deep snow patches and slick rock. Then came the surreal beauty of Kvalvika Beach, where sand met snow and the ocean roared its approval. For the 170 km runners, the day stretched long into the day, ending with a technical coastal section into the storybook village of Nusfjord. Legs screamed, but hearts were full.

Stage 2: Edge of the Earth – Nusfjord to Leknes (34 km / 17 km)

Day two was tougher. Tighter trails, more scrambling. The wind picked up, mist rolling in from the Norwegian Sea like smoke, rain fell, at times, hard and relentless. Between breaths, runners caught glimpses of jagged peaks piercing the sky and turquoise bays far below. This was Lofoten in full cinematic glory, wild, moody, and impossibly vast.

A tunnel under the sea added a surreal twist, legs burning as they climbed out of the darkness and back into the light. Offersøykammen offered panoramic views, but it demanded everything. As runners arrived in Leknes, drenched, scraped, and shivering, you could see it in their faces: wonder, pain, pride.

Stage 3: The Long Haul – Leknes to Rolvsfjorden (52 km / 35 km)

This was the crucible. The longest stage. Bodies were already breaking down, but the terrain opened up, longer runnable sections, smoother single track. The landscape changed too. From rugged coastline to sweeping highlands and serene lakes, this was Lofoten in its gentler form.

As the finish line at Brustranda Fjordcamping came into view, many had run out of words. “This is insane,” one runner muttered, grinning. “But it’s beautiful.”

Stage 4: The Final Push – Rolvsfjorden to Svolvær (45 km / 21 km)

The last day was emotional. Legs were dead weight. Ankles rolled. Minds fogged. But everyone knew what waited: the end, the reward, the moment of elation.

Jordtinden loomed: steep, snowy, relentless. At its summit, clouds lifted like curtains, revealing a 360-degree panorama that stopped runners in their tracks, the ridgeline ahead bringing a sense of awe and fear in equal measure.

This is the queen stage, the terrain bringing together all that makes Norway and Lofoten unique, marvellous and special.

You could see all the way back, mountains, inlets, the journey behind. Some cried. Some screamed. Some just stood there, stunned.

The descent into Svolvær was pure adrenaline, fuelled by joy and relief. The last stretch along the harbour felt like flying. Locals clapped. Teammates waited. People hugged. Some collapsed. Others danced.

More Than KM’s

But the Lofoten Stage Run wasn’t just about distance or finish times. It was about the strange intimacy of shared suffering, of strangers becoming friends over bowls of traditional Norwegian food and stories told in cabins. It was the moment you stepped outside at midnight, sun still hanging low over the sea, and realised how small we are.

It was the rawness of the terrain mirrored in every aching limb. It was the magic of Lofoten, weather that shifted like a mood, peaks that stabbed the sky, and a landscape that didn’t just surround you, it swallowed you whole.

In the end, it wasn’t a race, it never was, the Lofoten Stage Run is an experience, a 360 immersive journey that shocked the mind and the senses and revealed to each and every participant that this route, arguably, is one of the BEST in the world. It was a rite of passage. A storm-chased, mud-caked, heart-thumping reminder that the wild is still out there, and if you’re lucky, it might just let you in.

VIEW THE FULL IMAGE GALLERIES HERE

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Marathon des Sables The Legendary Turns 40: A Legacy of Endurance in the World’s Toughest Footrace

Posted on June 1, 2025 by talkultra

Since 1986, the Marathon des Sables – The Legendary (MDS) has carved its name into endurance racing history as one of the most gruelling, soul-stripping tests of human resilience. For 39 editions, it has pushed thousands to their physical and psychological limits under the crushing sun of the Moroccan Sahara.

In 2026, this legendary race will celebrate its 40th edition and it promises to be the most unforgettable one yet.

MDS The Legendary is six stages over roughly 250 km (155 miles), on blistering sand, across jagged jebels, and through soul-sapping salt plains. Runners carry everything they need for the week: food, sleeping equipment and clothes. The only luxury provided? A rationed daily water supply and a communal bivouac tent to crawl into at night which is shared with 7 other competitors.

Every ounce carried matters. Bring too little and you starve. Bring too much and the weight drags you down. Success depends on ruthless efficiency and mental grit.

For four decades, the The Legendary has become a rite of passage for ultra runners, adventurers, and those seeking to rewrite their limits. It has seen amputees cross the line, cancer survivors, soldiers, CEOs and importantly, ordinary people doing extraordinary things. The terrain has remained the same: raw, relentless, and unforgiving.

Despite the challenges, runner’s keep coming back, some for redemption, some for addiction, and all for the transformation.

The 40th Edition: What’s Coming in 2026

The 40th MdS won’t just be another race, it will be a celebration of the madness. A tribute to every blistered foot, every tear shed under Saharan stars, every finisher’s medal earned in blood, sand, and sweat.

The 40th will honour the legacy with style and fury.

Think You’ve Got What It Takes?

Entries for the 2026 edition open on June 11, 2025. Veteran or rookie, this is the year to go. Not just to run, but to become part of history. Become a Legend!

More information HERE

If you’re going to suffer, suffer for something legendary.

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Transvulcania Ultramarathon 2025 Summary – Savaged by the Storm

Posted on May 11, 2025 by talkultra

Transvulcania Ultra has always been a brutal race. Spanning 73.06 kilometers across the volcanic backbone of La Palma, with 4,350 meters of ascent and 4,057 meters of descent, it’s a journey from ocean to sky and back to ocean again. But in 2025, nature raised the stakes. This year, Transvulcania wasn’t just hard – it was survival.

From the moment runners left the Fuencaliente lighthouse at sea level, the signs were there. Dark skies. Driving rain. And as the climb up the GR131 trail began, the weather only worsened. Wet volcanic gravel shifted underfoot. Winds battered the open and exposed sections. Every gain in elevation brought colder air, heavier rain, and stronger gusts.

The early sections of the race, usually warmed by morning sun, were instead cold, and treacherous. Visibility dropped. Temperatures plummeted. Waterproofs were soaked through. The race had barely begun, but it was already a war of attrition.

The route climbed steadily through pine forests and barren lava, snaking up toward the spine of the island. Normally breathtaking, the high sections offered little view, just fog, wind, and rain slapping sideways across the many exposed ridges. The climb, always demanding, turned into a freezing march, the only protection coming from the trees.

The temperature near Roque de los Muchachos, the island’s high point at 2,421 meters, hovered close to freezing. But it was the wind chill that changed everything. Gusts tore across the exposed ridge line, turning already cold air into biting, sub-zero blasts. Some runners were forced to stop and layer up; others pushed through shivering, teeth clenched. Many decided to call it quits.

Hypothermia wasn’t just possible, it was real. For many, this section became less about racing and more about making it through.

The long drop from the summit to Tazacorte Puerto – a descent of over 2,000 vertical meters is never easy. But in this weather, it became treacherous. Slick rocks and pine needles, water-logged switchbacks punished tired quads. Fatigue met fear. But a glimmer of better weather below the cloud gave runners hope.

Warmth arrived, the exhaustion of fighting the cold up high lingered with every step though, the reward of the finish line now spurred each and every runner to fight hard. From Tazacorte Puerto, the final climb, known as ‘The Wall,’ is short on paper but long for the legs and mind. Roughly 300 meters of vertical gain on steep switchbacks of rocky path. Normally a test of willpower, this year it became an act of survival. However, the removal of the rocky gorge at sea level – for safety reasons – did mean it was possible to cover more ground much quicker.

The streets of Los Llanos were lined with cheering locals offering the first real warmth of the day. Music cut through the chill and finally the best finish line in the world arrived, the medal this year feeling a little heavier but hard earned after the rain, wind, and freezing exposure of a mountain that showed no mercy.

What makes Transvulcania unique has always been its terrain and profile. Lava fields, pine forests, ridge lines, sun, and sea. But in 2025, the weather became the story. Torrential rain washed away comfort. The cold stripped away energy. And the wind exposed every weakness, both mental and physical.

The fastest still raced though. The elite still chased podiums. But deeper in the field, it was about finishing, about not quitting. About moving forward despite frozen hands, soaked shoes, and the urge to stop.

Transvulcania is about battling whatever the mountain throws at you, and this year, it threw everything.

Peter Frano and Anne-Lise Rousset were crowned as the winners of the ultra marathon. Frano made his move on the descent to Tazacorte Puerto passing Andreas Reiterer who would eventually finish 2nd ahead of Manu Anguita. The times were 6:55:36, 6:58:27 and 7:19:18 respectively.

After three previous attempts, 2016, 2017 and 2019, Anne-Lise Rousset finally took the top honours in 8:18:17, a long way off the CR of 8:02:49 set by Ruth Croft in 2024. Ekaterina Mityaeva and Martina Valmassoi battled for 2nd and 3rd and were separated by just 27-seconds at the line, 8:36:58 and 8:37:25.

In the men’s race, hot favourites Dakota Jones and Dmitry Mityaev did not make the start, notably, Andreu Simon Aymerich, Matt Daniels, David Sinclair and Jordi Gamito (amongst many others) DNF’d.

For the women, Ruth Croft who lead the race for almost half of the distance finally succumbed to the weather and withdrew, along with Azara Garcia and Elisa Desco.

Even through fogged lenses and stormy skies, La Palma’s raw beauty still showed through. Runners moved through wild volcanic terrain, past black rock and misty forests. They crossed an island shaped by fire and storm, and this year, they did it while the island roared. And those who crossed the line in Los Llanos? They didn’t just finish a race, they survived an ultra through one of the wildest tests the island has ever delivered.

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MDS Raid Namibia 2025 Summary : Testing Limits on the Edge of the Atlantic

Posted on May 5, 2025 by talkultra

The first edition of MDS Raid Namibia has come to a close, leaving behind exhausted bodies, and memories that will last a lifetime. This was more than just a race across the sands—it was a shared journey in one of the world’s most extreme environments. Over four days participants moved through heat, wind, and shifting dunes with only one constant: each other.

This inaugural and pioneering edition introduced a unique format – teams of two. Every participant was matched, not just in distance and pace, but in mindset. They ran, rested, and overcame together. And in those long hours on foot, under relentless skies, something powerful happened. Partnerships turned into friendships. Teams became a family.

Self-sufficiency is the foundation of MDS Raid Namibia. Runners carry all their food and essential gear for four days on their backs. It’s a constant of the MDS format: a journey on foot through an incredible environment that returns participants to a more primitive time, one of survival. Support comes from each other and the MDS crew.

View the MDS RAID NAMIBIA Photo Galleries here

The Blue Coats and the Orange Coats: Backbone of the Race

Behind every successful kilometer run or walked were the volunteers – the unsung heroes of MDS Raid Namibia. Dressed in blue jackets, the logistics team ran the show from behind the scenes. They handled transportation, managed camp setup, checkpoint supplies, vehicle recovery, and every little thing that kept the race moving forward. Without them, the race wouldn’t have happened.

Equally essential were the orange-coated medical teams. These men and women brought experience, calm, and skill to a setting where even small injuries can become dangerous fast. From treating blisters and hydration to monitoring serious fatigue and heat issues, they kept a constant watch over the runners. Their presence allowed participants to push harder, knowing someone had their backs.

Crucial to the survival and success of every runner were the course checkpoints, spaced strategically each day. These oases offered one vital thing: water. The weight of self-sufficiency was lifted slightly at each stop, where volunteers filled bottles, tracked progress, and cheered with smiles that mattered more than they knew. These checkpoints weren’t just pit stops – they were lifelines.

Volunteers often worked longer hours than the racers. They were the first up, the last to sleep, and the steady hands that made this entire event possible. Their professionalism and compassion were matched only by their quiet strength. They didn’t ask for recognition – but they deserve it all.

Running Together, Surviving Together

On the course, teammates and other teams took turns setting pace, checking the route, monitoring hydration, and offering quiet encouragement when the kilometres got heavy.

When one teammate faltered, the other picked up the emotional slack. When both were down, they leaned on each other and climbed back out together.

What surprised many was how close they grew to not just their partner, but to everyone else out there. Between finish line and camp life, barriers fell.

Every evening, the camp came alive with laughter, shared meals, stories, and exhausted, genuine connection. Strangers at the start became a family by the end. No one knew how hard it would get. No one knew how deep the friendships would run.

The Desert Gave Everything

The course itself was as raw and real as it gets. Each day offered a new section of Namibia’s coastal desert, where runners encountered moonscape vistas of sand that disappered into endless horizons.,

Soft, energy-sapping dunes that define this region were the relentless playground that made MDS Raid Namibia unique.

The Atlantic Ocean sat just out of reach, visible but untouchable, as if guarding the coastline. A highlight? For the first time in history, participants were granted access to the restricted Sandwich Harbour.

From the start, the desert tested resolve. Heat during the day, cold at night, and relentless sand underfoot made every kilometer earned. The course cut through some of the most stunning and unforgiving landscapes in Africa: ancient dunes, wind-carved valleys, and the stark openness of Namibia’s coastal desert. It was physically punishing, but visually surreal.

Unique for RAID was star night: a night without shelter, raw, exposed to the sky and elements. Teams bonded as they revelled in the unique privilege to share an African sky as a communal blanket.

Gratitude to the Namibian People

No event of this scale happens without the trust and cooperation of local communities. The MDS team expresses deep thanks to the people of Namibia – the landowners, the local guides, the regional authorities, and the communities near the course. A special thanks to Namibian Tourist Board and the Governor. The race would not have been possible without Kenneth and the team at Sandwich Dune Tours and Safari.

The generosity, the hospitality, and the pride in sharing this land made it possible for us to experience something few ever will. Namibia’s desert is wild, beautiful, and humbling – and it’s also a place of heritage and strength. We were guests in this landscape, and we honor those who welcomed us into it.

More Than a Finish Line

When the final teams crossed the finish line – worn out, arms raised, sometimes in tears – there was no grand ceremony, no confetti. Just the wind, the sand, and the quiet satisfaction of doing something very few people ever will.

Yet, in that exhaustion, something else was clear: no one was truly the same person who had arrived days earlier. This race changed people. It stripped them down, exposed their limits, and revealed what was underneath. Some discovered endurance. Others rediscovered purpose. Everyone left with more than they brought.

Looking Forward

The success of this first edition has set a powerful tone. MDS Raid Namibia may not be for the faint-hearted – but it is for the curious, the determined, the seekers. Those who want more than medals. Those who want something real.

What began as a desert race ended as a shared story of grit, resilience, and human connection. And the desert – harsh and indifferent – gave something beautiful in return.

To the runners, the volunteers, the partners, and the people of Namibia: thank you.

View the MDS RAID NAMIBIA Photo Galleries here

MDS Raid Namibia 2026 is calling. Are you ready to answer?

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La Sportiva PRODIGIO PRO – Shoe Review

Posted on April 24, 2025 by talkultra

It has been a little like Christmas lately with the arrival of new shoes for testing and the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro was highly anticipated. I got my hands on a pair at UTMB in 2024, sadly though, they remained in my hands and not on my feet.

So, the arrival of the Prodigio Pro was welcome.

In all honesty, it’s a stand out shoe for La Sportiva. For perspective, I have been using La Sportiva for years, they offer bullet proof mountain running shoes and models such as the Mutant, Jackal and the Cyklon have been in my rotation for years. They are durable and trustworthy BUT not the lightest or even the fastest options available.

Not sure how, but I missed the original Prodigio and when it finally came around to getting a pair for test, the Prodigio Pro was available. So, I jumped straight to the Prodigio Pro, so, any comments here cannot be related to the Prodigio, which I think is maybe a good thing!

First point – this feels like La Sportiva have released a fast, lightweight and arguably a super shoe for trails. Hence my comment ‘a stand out shoe for La Sportiva.’

The Prodigio Pro, for a mountain centric company, is a new approach.

The addition of PRO name signifies that this shoe is for faster workouts, racing or if you are like me, you just love a bloody good run shoe.

With 28mm cushioning at the front, 34mm at the rear and a 6mm drop, the Prodigio Pro sits in this wonderful middle ground of cushioning and drop.

The upper is unique, Power Wire. This upper looks like it was created via computer and then woven in a lab by some marvellous magic.

The outsole if La Sportiva’s own Friction White. I have to say, I love it hen brands make their own outsole. I am tired of Vibram being added to run shoes and frankly (hold your breath) it is not a good outsole when you are on wet rock or similar. I am amazed that NNormal could not come up with something better! And let’s face it, nobody can compete with VJ outsoles. But, La Sportiva do a good job.

The cushioning is nitro-infused which in all honesty I have no idea what it means BUT yes, it really works. The thing with cushioning is, and some shoe brands don’t seem to understand this, if you are going high with cushioning, you need to go wide with outsole/ footprint, otherwise you are running on an unstable double decker bus that is ready to roll at any moment – step in the horrendous adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra which proves that you don’t take a road shoe, make some tweaks and then call it a trail shoe.

What this shoe does not have is a plate – yipee!!!! Don’t get me wrong here, some ‘plates’ work, the Hoka Tecton X3 a great example. But mostly, a plate in a trail running shoe has been less than a positive experience for me and many others.

THE SHOE

They look fantastic, simple!

I have the red colour with LA SPORTIVA in yellow. I have to say, when I opened the box I was really sad they were not the classic black/yellow with a hint of red colours that kinda signify La Sportiva, but the red is cool.

My eye immediately went to the tongue, the sock like fit and then the cushioning.

The upper is pretty darn special, especially when you zoom in close. It’s like thousands of fine threads woven together in varying thickness to add structure. It’s like Matryx which we are seeing on many shoes BUT it is completely different. As the name says, it is POWER WIRE which provides great fit, great comfort and excellent breathability – the shoe was a little cold running in winter! Toe protection is adeqaute, maybe a little minimal, but, for a trail shoe, perfectly fine.

Slipping the foot inside, the sock like fit and padded tongue are amazing. I got exactly the same feel from the Hoka Tecton X3, this put a big smile on my face. When tightening the laces, the padded tongue provides superior comfort on the navicular bone, a typical point of irritation.

As with all La Sportiva, you need to be careful with sizing, this shoe in particular will require you to have the correct size because of the way they fit. I would start by going a size larger as a start point. If you take a UK10, try a UK11.

First run and I had a big smile, the cushioning is bouncy and fast with a great propulsive phase. If you have the fitness, cadence and run form, this shoe will fly along. It’s without doubt an awesome trail racing shoe. If like me you move a little slower, there is considerable comfort and life here.

The footprint is good which provides stability. However, with the sock like fit and the cushioning, when moving on technical terrain, foot hold and security is compromised. I therefore see the Prodigio Pro as much more a trail running shoe and not a mountain running shoe. There is no rock plate, not a deal breaker, but I do wonder if this would benefit the shoe and help on more mountainous terrain?

The outsole is in line with the usage of the shoe, 4mm lugs certainly sit well with the intentions of trail running and faster running. It’s grippy, durable and gladly covers most of the outsole to provide grip in most scenarios. But, on wet rock, grip is not where I want it to be. Once I slip, my confidence goes and when I can no longer rely on an outsole to do it’s job, my speed drops.

CONCLUSION

I absolutely love the Prodigio Pro. You may think from my review that I am not sold on this new incarnation from La Sportiva, I am. It is an absolutely fantastic trail running shoe for single-track, dry conditions and trail. The Prodigio Pro really excels on rocks and boulders too. But, if the trail is very technical and particularly, if it is wet, then the Prodigio Pro is compromised. Quite simply, if I use this shoe is the right conditions, they are superb. They have a very similar feeling to the Hoka Tecton X3 which I also love. These shoes feel like they were made for racing in the USA, I know Anton Krupricka helped the development, and I would imagine at Leadville or Western States, these shoes would fly along.

The release of the Prodigio Pro coincided with the VJ Ultra 3, in testing I was actually alternating days, VJ one day, La Sportiva the next and this was ideal to asses both shoes. In a way, they are very similar but equally, they are very different. The VJ has more cushioning, 30/38 in comparison to 28/34, a higher drop, 8mm instead of 6mm, the outsoles, 4.5mm to 4mm for the La Sportiva.

I got many questions, ‘Which would I choose?’ I refused to answer initially as both put a huge smile on my face and my initial thought was, you know what, I would be happy with either.

But, I am in a lucky position to test and compare and with that in mind, if I was going out to buy a pair of shoes tomorrow I would choose the VJ Ultra 3. Why? Ultimately, the VJ has the grip for all conditions and that is really important for me. The foot hold is superior in the VJ particularly in mountain and technical terrain. I think in the long term, the VJ will be more bullet proof in the terrain and conditions I run in. Finally, I feel that I can use the VJ on ‘all’ terrain, whwereas, I feel the Prodigio Pro is compromised on more technical and mountain terrain.

BUT and wonderful final but, if I was going out for a faster trail run on groomed trail, the Prodigio Pro is hard to beat.

So finally, is the Prodigio Pro for you? I would think about where you are running, what conditions you are running in and what you need from a shoe. I am extremely happy with mine and I would have no issue slipping these on for ‘any’ run despite the reservations for some conditions – the Prodigio Pro is great looking, has incredible comfort, a lovely lively ride and on the right feet, they are fast.

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VJ ULTRA 3 – SHOE REVIEW

Posted on April 23, 2025 by talkultra

In a world of the big shoe brands, think adidas, Brooks, Asics, Nike and of course, the list goes on. I love the fact that, without doubt, the best trail and mountain running shoes come from a small Finnish brand, VJ SPORT.

It’s a bold statement huh? But, if you have been reading shoe reviews on this website for many years, you will know, that I have a love for VJ shoes.

I am not going to write an article here about the brand, its history and do a PR job for them, I honestly don’t feel I need to. I feel safe in the knowledge that if anyone purchases a pair of VJ’s based on one of my reviews, they very quickly agree with me. Over the years I have received countless messages in the vein of, ‘I had no idea about this brand until I read your review and now I have theses shoes, it’s a game changer, the fit and in particular, the outsole are amazing!’

With a strong history and foundation in Orienteering, VJ made a name for itself in Scandinavia as the ‘go-to’ shoe. Jon Albon (yes, the TNF athlete) helped shift the awareness to a worldwide platform with his success in OCR using the iRock shoes and then in the world of trail, ultra and skyrunning with the XTRM, MAXx and the ULTRA.

In all honesty, despite huge growth, huge success and repeated accolades around the world for having ‘the best grip on the planet,’ VJ are still a niche brand and a secret weapon. I honestly believe, that in technical, mountain, rocky, and slippery terrain, a runner with VJ shoes has a distinct advantage that may well make a difference between gaining a podium place or not. This is especially rings true, here, in my home of Norway, where the mountain terrain is harsh, slippery and very demanding.

With all the above in mind, VJ keep their shoe line up simple for trail/ mountain and Ultra:

iRock4 – Mega grip, precision feel, for intense mud when grip is a priority. The 8mm lugs are like claws.
Spark – Minimal race shoe with 5mm lugs, 11mm/16mm cushioning.
Lightspeed – Fast and light, a racing trail shoe with the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 23/29mm and 3.5mm lugs.
XTRM2 – A fast mountain shoe for short to middle distance with 6mm lugs and 10/14mm cushioning.
MAXx2 – Cushioning and grip with a lower profile, ideal for the mountains. With the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 25/31mm and 4mm lugs.
Ultra 3 – As the name suggests, a long distance shoe with cushioning. With the ‘new’ SuperFOAMance cushioning at 30/38mm and 4.5mm lugs.
Flow – A new shoe for all terrain which I have yet to test. 25/35mm and 4.5mm lugs.

In addition to the above there is a winter shoe, the XTER that is also available with spikes, called the ACE, for ice and snow. There are countless spike/ winter models HERE.

VJ ULTRA 3

This is not the first ultra shoe for VJ, on the contrary, they released the ULTRA and the ULTRA2. Both of these shoes I have run in and tested over the past few years. They both had all the perfect VJ characteristics, namely, amazing grip and incredible foothold with Fitlock. However, for me, the cushioning never felt ‘bouncy,’ and this always shifted me to use the MAXx.

In 2023, VJ released a winter shoe called the ACE, this shoe was a spiked shoe for snow/ ice etc. It was a complete game changer! The shape of the shoe was completely different, the toe box was wide and expansive (just like ALTRA) to allow the toes to move and keep warm during winter conditions. In addition, the ACE had new cushioning called SuperFOAMance. I said in my 2023 review, and I quote, ‘I want this shoe without studs for dry trail running.’

Well, I gave that feedback to VJ and they listened, the VJ ULTRA 3 comes from the ACE development.

However, I need to mess up this and segway to the LIGHTSPEED and MAXx2. Between the ACE and the release of the ULTRA 3, we had the Lightspeed and MAXx2 launches. Again, two amazing game changers for VJ. The LIGHTSPEED is a super fast and responsive trail racing shoe, think the Golden Trail Series. The MAXx2 (think skyrunning) builds on everything that was great in the original MAXx but takes it one step further. Both these new shoes had the SuperFOAMance cushioning, which, for me, it is incredible. I have done big mountain days in Spain, Italy and Norway in the MAXx2, always great comfort, great foot hold and of course, amazing grip. The MAXx2 is for me, without doubt, the best mountain running shoe out there. I just can’t wait for VJ to bring the cushioning to the XTRM too so when I need a more aggressive outsole, I have the option and the same cushioning.

So, here we are with the VJ ULTRA 3.

The ULTRA 3 has what I loved in the ACE and the MAXx2 and has given me a shoe that merges these two shoes into a product designed for long, big, ultra days in the mountains and on trails.

The ULTRA 3 is the most cushioned shoe VJ have made, 30mm at the front, 38mm at the rear and an 8mm drop puts this shoe in an area that all the other big brands are dominating – think Hoka.

So, why would VJ try to penetrate this market?

Quite simply, they are offering a shoe that the other brands do not offer… They are bringing their unique USP’s of foot hold and grip, adding cushioning and providing a very specific mountain/ ultra shoe.

The ULTRA 3 was tested at the 2024 UTMB on the feet of Juuso Simpanen, he placed 19th.

The 4.5mm lugs make the shoe ideal for trail and mountains, especially when encountering wet and slippery rock. The Superior Contact outsole featured on every VJ shoe is the best on the market – no other shoe or brand has the grip of VJ.

The toe box is wider, a ‘4’ on the VJ fit scale, 5 being the widest.

The SuperFOAMance cushioning is a game changer, it has elevated the VJ shoes to a different feel and responsiveness that was not there previously. That is not to say that there was anyting wrong with the MAXx or Ultra 2, that is reflected in that these shoes are still available to purchase. However, the new cushioning, for me, has given the MAXx2 and the ULTRA 3 the ability to ‘always’ use these shoes. Previously, I would think about my run and the terrain and decide what was the best shoe, the SuperFOAMance has eradicated that problem.

So, when would I use the ULTRA 3 and when would I use the MAXx2?

It’s a good question and one I find easy to answer. If I am heading out for a trail run be that in the mountains or say, in the forest, the ULTRA 3 would be my choice. The cushioning help smooths out the trails, provides comfort and despite the extra stack height, I have no worries over stability. Should I go to the mountains, with far more challenging and technical terrain, the MAXx2 is my choice. The caveat with both the ULTRA 3 and MAXx2 is neither of them will offer super grip in mud, this when the XTRM is the option and why (please VJ) I hope they release an XTRM with MAXx2 cushioning and XTRM outsole.

THE SHOE

Next level cushioning without losing the core basics that make VJ shoes special, basically, great foot hold and an awesome outsole.

On first appearance, the ULTRA 3 looks rather bulky and heavy. They are not heavy at all, my UK10 weigh under 290g.

Drop is 8mm, perfect for a long distance ultra shoe and the cushioning is 30mm at the front, 38mm at the rear and the fit is slightly small, so, if you are usually a UK9, I would recommend a UK9.5 etc. As is always the case, you need to try on and make sure of the fit for yourself.

I have found with VJ shoes I always lock lace. I did my first run in the ULTRA 3 without lock lacing and the second with lock lacing, I prefer to lock lace. Just a heads-up as I feel you should try both options to see what works for you!

One of the key selling points of any VJ is how the shoe holds the foot, this comes from Fitlock which, when the laces are tightened and adjusted correctly, holds the foot perfectly, especially noticeable when on technical and demanding trail.

The upper is in one piece made of multi zone woven mesh with varying density. They are breathable but equally, in colder weather, they are not too cold. There is excellent protection at the front with a great toe bumper.

The rear collar is where a noticeable change has been made from the ACE winter shoe. The ACE was well padded and very comfortable. Here, the rear collar is lightly padded with a slight raised section inside to stop heel slippage. On the MAXx2 I initially had an issue with the right side of the heel cup being a little high which irritated my ankle bone, that is present here in the ULTRA 3. I have found that after a few runs this softens and becomes no problem. On my first run in the ULTRA 3 I got a hot spot at the rear – I never get blisters! So, this rang an immediate alarm bell. However, I changed socks for my 2nd run and then had no issues, so, sock choice may well be an important consideration.

The tongue is thin. But I have had no issues with any tension, hot spots or pain.

The toe box is, for VJ, wide and this will be a game changer for many people who have found VJ too narrow in the past. It allows great toe splay and comfort without losing a precision feel when required.

Cushioning is a breakthrough for VJ. As I found on the ACE, the SuperFOAMance was something very special, here in the ULTRA 3, it takes the shoe to another level of comfort without being squidgy or losing ground feel.

There is a rock plate which in many ways has three purposes: It protects the foot. It helps protect the cushioning. It also provides some torsional rigidity (a little like a plated shoe) without having the downsides of a carbon plate or similar.

Outsole, it is easy, best grip on the planet. Nothing grips like the VJ butyl outsole. The 4.5mm lugs are maybe a surprise? Would I prefer 5mm or even 6mm? Yes! but maybe the 4.5mm is the best choice for a shoe to manage ‘all’ surfaces. Ultimately, the foot print is wide, front, middle and rear making contact with the ground superb. VJ also realise that if you increase stack height, you need to increase footprint size for stability. A lesson that adidas Terrex need to learn with there woefully unstable Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra which is on technical terrain dangerous IMO.

IN USE

After three runs, I had to tweak certain elements to make the ULTRA 3 perfect for me. Firstly, I lock laced. I changed socks to Injinji. I tweaked the lace tension for the comfort/ feel I prefer.

One I had the three items above dialled, the ULTRA 3 became perfect.

The cushioning is a game changer for VJ but it sits in its own place. Two current outstanding shoes I love, the Hoka Tecton X3 and the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro both have lively, bouncy cushioning. The ULTRA 3 is not like this. It’s more controlled and therefore, I prefer the ULTRA 3 in more mountainous and technical terrain. I find there is more precision and reassurance. Any roll from the additional stack height is balanced and controlled, this also comes from the amazing Fitlock.

Grip is the best, and I say that with complete confidence. I would compromise cushioning and comfort for VJ grip. I have done this in the past, for example, using the MAXx for really big mountain days when I knew I needed grip due to wet rock or similar. Now, the ULTRA 3 gives me the cushioning and comfort with grip.

CONCLUSION

The ULTRA 3 is a game changer for VJ. This shoe will now make VJ grip available for longer races such as those in the UTMB calendar or similar. I do feel the ULTRA 3 slots in the more mountain ultra terrain than just ultra trail. There is a durability, a strength, a build quality to the ULTRA 3 that says, ‘I am here to take a battering and protect you!’ One thing is for sure, if you are looking for a shoe with cushioning, grip and comfort, the ULTRA 3 should be at the top of your list.

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MDS THE LEGENDARY 2025 : RACE SUMMARY

Posted on April 17, 2025 by talkultra

The sand is settling, the 2025 and 39^th edition of Marathon des Sables The Legendary is over.

Quite simply, a hugely successful edition with 95% completion rate and good time vibes felt throughout the Sahara and beyond.

OVERVIEW

Cyril and Olivier with Michael from the USA – Photo by Ian Corless

The transition from 2023 to 2024 was not an easy one. The take over of MDS from Patrick Bauer and into the hands of Cyril and Olivier had created some concern and anxiety. Most certainly, the build up to the 2024 (38^th) MDS had many concerns for participants that were vocalised on social media. However, after the 2024 event, all these worries and concerns were extinguished with an incredibly successful event and high finish rate. You Can read Marathon des Sables – The Legendary : 2024 Summary HERE should you wish.

Nothing like a MDS start – Photo by Ian Corless

From May 2024 to April 2025 the build up to the 39^th Legendary edition was seamless. The successful running and completion of MDS (3-stages over 4-days at 70/100 or 120km) events in Cappadocia, Fuerteventura, Jordan, Morocco, Atlantic Coast and the introduction of Trek and Handi only confirmed the growth, development, upward learning curve and the MDS team bonding and progression.

All of the concerns and worries for the 38^th edition of Legendary played out on social media were not present for the 39^th edition. There is a couple of reasons for this I believe:

The 38^th edition had been a huge success and therefore worries and concerns were answered.
The pro-active communication from the MDS team improved considerably.
Runner testimonies from the 2024 event confirmed that the ‘new’ MDS team and the changes made were all positive.
Evolution, not revolution was the quote that Cyril Gauthier had used in 2023 this was played out in 2024 and then consolidated upon in 2025.

Arrival in the desert – Photo by Ian Corless

THE 2025 EVENT

Welcome to the Sahra – Photo by Ian Corless

Post-race questionnaires are extremely important for the MDS team. Cyril and Olivier very much take all the comments, absorb them, digest them and then move forward with new plans. If a new plan does not work and the participants confirm this, then it is changed. If a new plan works, it is retained. There are no one-stop easy solutions, MDS is an ever-growing and ever-changing event that must constantly be a chameleon to the ever-changing demands and needs of participants.

TRAVEL

A key change for 2025 was in transportation. Two key points:

The core MDS team, based mostly in Paris, travelled to Morocco via train, boat and coach, taking 3-days and not using airplane travel. For 2025, this was a one way journey, a test, to see how feasible and practical this form of travel is. The general consensus from those who did it is/ was extremely positive. General comments were around this being an adventure in its own right, a brilliant opportunity to share more time with colleagues, a great opportunity to work while travelling and so on… I think we may well see this grow into something bigger for 2026!
In 2024, plane travel arranged by the MDS organisation was reduced to a minimum. For 2025 it was eradicated all together. Therefore, participants could no longer take the option of a MDS charter plane but had to arrange flights themselves. This is no big deal with so many flight options available, especially with MDS offering a free transfer coach service from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and post-race, a free transfer service back to Marrakech.

SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Catering by the MDS organisation once in the Sahara was removed in 2024, this was reasoned for 2025. To clarify, when the buses leave Ouarzazate for the desert, self-sufficiency begins for the travel day, the fist night in bivouac, the following day (admin day), the evening and then, the following day, the race starts and ‘race’ self-sufficiency begins. There is a difference between the two forms of self-sufficiency as the travel day and admin day you can bring as much or as little as you like. Quite simply, it’s not part of the mandatory race minimum requirement of 2000 cal minimum per day. You can bring tinned food, drinks, wine, beer, caviar…. Whatever you wish! It’s a no brainer to be able to look after your own food requirements and quite simply it greatly reduces the possibility of food related health issues that could potentially ruin a race.

ADMIN DAY

The procedures for admin day were changed for the 2024 edition and they were a huge success. This system was retained for 2025 making the process seamless, fast and considerably less painful than the procedures that had gone before.

BIVOUAC

In principle, it may well look the same, however, there are changes for the very observant. Firstly, the circles that make bivouac are smaller and tighter making the camp much more of a community. In 2025 there were new ‘women only’ tents for those who would prefer this option. On some days, in the middle of bivouac, yoga/ stretching was possible, circle of legend talks and yes, even a big fire.

WATER

The provision of water was drastically changed in 2024 and this was retained for 2025. During the race there is no rationing of water. As you arrive at a CP, water is decanted into your bottles via MDS blue jackets who pour the water from jugs. This water comes from large 5ltr bottles. Quite simply, you can have 2x 750ml bottles filled, you can then drink one and it will be refilled if required – a game changer.

Post-race you are provided with 1 large 5ltr bottle, the is rationed. So, this water must provide hydration post-race, be used for dinner/ breakfast and it must be used to fill your bottles to take you to CP1 the following day.

ICED WATER

CP’s have MDS orange or blue jackets who will pour iced water over your head to enable cooling. It’s a small simple step that makes a huge change that ultimately helps facilitate completion of the Legendary.

ORANGE AND BLUE JACKETS

The MDS would not happen without this amazing team of people. The energy, the enthusiasm, the constant good vibes make the runner the number one priority and YES, these people make the difference between finishing and not finishing. They are 100% switched on with the sole purpose to get every runner across the line. You can get a feeling of how important the blue and oranges are by taking a look HERE on Facebook.

Orange jackets are the medical team who make sure that participants are looked after 100%. They are there for you, no matter what the issue. You will see them on the course at CP’s, in fast response vehicles, in 4×4’s and of course in the medical tents in bivouac.

SAFETY

Any MDS event has risks associated with it. We are often in harsh environments, in challenging conditions, we have varying climate conditions and of course, we have runner’s and staff pushing the limit of what is humanly possible. Safety is taken very seriously and how safety is managed is an ever-changing and developing process.

Legendary had more fast response vehicles, more medical professionals on course, there were 10 medical professional runner’s who did the course and there was a new mobile medical unit for 2025 which is state of the art. There was also the inclusion of the ‘Orange Squad’ – a medical team who do the course the opposite way so that they are able to see runner’s coming toward them and should there be a problem, they can help immediately.

Each runner is issued with a Spot Tracker and this allows the MDS team to monitor each runner on the course and importantly, they have an SOS button which if pressed, will receive a medical response vehicle in minutes.

Feet are always an issue and of course, the medical tent is there to facilitate foot repair in bivouac. It’s important to be self-sufficient and look after your feet yourself, however, as and when necessary, a medical professional is always there to help.

RACE BRIEFINGS

Race start times are very important and pre 2024, the race start time was somewhat unpredictable. This changed in 2024 and was upped to another level in 2025 with every stage starting exactly on time! It may sound like a small thing, but knowing you will be underway as scheduled makes planning so much easier. If it says 0600 start, you know it starts at 0600.

Another change was the addition of an English speaking announcer – yes, it was me! This was the idea of Cyril and we instigated and tested this at Atlantic Coast in January, it worked. So, for Legendary and moving forward, an English briefing will take place and then be translated into French and not the other way around. Stage 6 race briefing may well go down in history as the best. Mood was already high with the final stage ahead, nut hen we had participant, Reujen Lista join us on stage for a ‘live’ version of Highway to Hell – it was epic!

Highway to Hell ‘live’ – Photo by Florian

WEATHER

As always, weather plays a key part in any MDS event. However, we are most definitely feeling the impacts of ever changing climatic conditions. It was always assumed that MDS will be hot and unbearable, history is showing that is not the case. Recently, particularly in Morocco, we have experienced difficult weather: MDS Morocco in October had torrential rain and flooding, the recent MDS Atlantic Coast in January had cooler temperatures, some rain and the last day had full-on sand storms. The 2025 Legendary started calmly and tranquil, it was looking to be a classic race, it was sunny, hot, but not too hot and the winds were relatively calm. That all changed come stage 4 (the long day) with cloudy skies and cooler temperatures in the day. During the night the winds increased, rain came and without doubt, from 2100 hrs the conditions were difficult and challenging. Especially for those who were moving through the night looking to get the long day done. CP’s had cold participants taking shelter looking to get warm and continue the journey. This weather continued through the rest day. Stage 5 had a mix of everything but the heat never came and stage 6 was cloudy, cool and with intermittent rain. There is a very big lesson that needs to be learned, I did say this before Legendary, but now, post-race, I can only say it more, you need to be prepared for bad weather! A good jacket is now essential, so much so, I do think that it should be added to mandatory kit. I also think it wise to make sure that you are able to keep key items, such as sleeping bag, dry during bad weather. Many had wet sleeping bags during the long day which can effectively make them useless, depending on what filling is inside.

THE ROUTE

Legendary is now 6-stages over 7-days and this is a huge difference. Pre 2024, the race was 5-stages and stage 6 was a non-times ‘solidarity’ stage for charity. It’s hard to argue against the charity side of this, however, a non-timed 6^th stage was pointless.

The race is now 6-stages timed and raced.

For 2024, the ‘long day’ was moved to stage 3. For 2025, it was moved back to stage 4. The main reason for this was due to the course and the start/ finish point.

2024 participants, as always, tried to stress that the 2024 edition was/ would be harder than 2025. Of course it’s nonsense. Comments like, ‘Argh, but here was more vertical gain in 2024!’ were unfounded as the people who made these comments had obviously not done due diligence, the reality is the 2024 Legendary was 252.9km’s and the 2025 event was 250km. Vertical gain was almost identical, 2024 was 2788m+ and 2025 was 2710m+

In many respects, the 2025 edition was more ‘classic MDS’ with a marathon after the rest day.

The route was notably different for some key reasons. The Sahara is vast and of course, needs to be explored more. Due to runner demand and logistical reasons, certain features have become almost ‘essential’ when running Legendary. However, Cyril and the team wanted to change that and therefore, there was no Jebel El Otfal in 2025, there was a return to Merzouga Dunes and while the route travelled in similar areas of the Sahara, the track was approximately 80% new. There were some great ‘new’ additions such as the huge dune on stage 4 and the stage 5 route was very special.

THE RACE

Rachid El Morabity once again took victory securing his 11^th and in the process he set a record for the most victories. It’s an incredible achievement to have this level of consistency over so many years. It’s fair to say, the level of competition at the front end of the race was less in 2025. The only real person who could upset Rachid was Hamid Yachou, he unfortunately withdrew mid-race with injury. We could argue all day if Mohamed El Morabity could beat Rachid, the simple fact is, it would not happen. However, as we look ahead to 2026, will Mohamed take over the Rl Morabity reigns? Mohamed is 10-years younger than Rachid and therefore, he has great potential ahead. Also, the inclusion of the 3^rd and younger El Morabity, Mbark, should not be looked over.

For the women, 2023 Legendary champion, Maryline Nakache returned and she was on fire. No, she was untouchable. For perspective, Maryline finished 3^rd on GC for the long day and at the end of the race, was 4^th on GC with the closest time to Rachid, by a woman, in the history of the race. Quite incredible. Aziza El Amrany won the race in 2024 and for 2025 she was 2^nd, she looked great throughout, despite an arm injury, however, she was no match for Maryline. Tomomi Bitoh placed 3^rd, she has placed 3^rd before. However, Annelies Brak would have placed 3^rd had she not received a 2-hour time penalty for non-compliance of mandatory kit.

Rachid completed the race in 20:55:47 and Maryline in 23:57:20. A total of 847 participants crossed the finish line, the last male Tomohito Hirai in 75:49:27 and the last woman, Nemoto Yuzuki in 74:31:01.

Results HERE

POST RACE

Reujen Lista rocking the awards – Photo by Ian Corless

Transfer back to Ouarzazate was easy and seamless with coaches filling with participants and leaving asap. Of course, a hotel, many showers, buffet food and a nice clean bed always feels amazing after the Sahara. The awards dinner turned into an impromptu rock concert with a participant, Reujen Lista, singing 3 songs on stage, the last, of course, was Highway to Hell. It was a fantastic way to end what was a legendary LEGENDARY.