The 2019 Ultra Mirage El Djerid 100k #UMED – Race Summary

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The 2019 Ultra Mirage El Djerid 100k #UMED is over and what an epic 3rd edition of the race! Pre-race favourites, Rachid El Morabity and Bouchra Lundgren Eriksen were crowned the champions.

Three editions and three courses, the 2018 and 2019 courses similar but as race director, Amir Ben Gacem said pre-race, the 2019 route would be harder due to more soft-sand in key sections. The route was harder and this was confirmed by all alumni.

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100km desert based in Tozeur, Tunisia, North Africa brought runners from all over the world to experience something very special in a unique environment. The start and finish at the Star Wars film set made famous as Luke Skywalker’s home – Mos Espa.

The 1st edition had just 60 runners from 12 countries, for 2018, these numbers escalated to over 100 and a remarkable 20+ countries for 2018 and now 168 toed the line in 2019.

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The Ultra Mirage© El Djerid (UMED) is the first 100km Ultra Trail taking place in the stunning Tunisian Sahara desert. Tozeur is the main city of the Djerid, known for its stunning surroundings.

Soft-sand, small dunes, rocks, dried river beds and multiple oasis, participants had 20-hours to finish the race with very specific deadlines to reach each of the checkpoints which will be between 15-20km apart. Starting at 0700, the race concluded at 0300 with a drop-out rate of 30%.

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On paper, the 2019 editions of the race, despite a harder route, looked like it may have the bonus of cooler temperatures… Not so, race day proved to be a scorcher with temperatures hitting 40+ degrees causing problems for runners who baked in the intense heat – the checkpoints were too far away for such intense heat!

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The early stages of the race were dictated by Evgenii Glyva who set a ridiculous pace considering the distance ahead.

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Tunisian runner, Mosbah Lagha pursued at a distance and quite sensibly, any runner who was hoping to be around at the finish line decided to stay around Rachid El Morabity, the 2018 champion.

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Chefia Hendaoui who placed 3rd last year, from the gun, left the top women trailing behind. For over 10km, she actually ran ahead of Rachid finally succumbing and joining the top contenders of Elisabet Barnes, Bouchra Lundgren Eriksen, Oksana Riabova and more.

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After Cp1, Rachid trailed the duo upfront by over 10-minutes. It was enough for him to decide to react and what a reaction. The desert king closed the distance in no time and with another change of gear pulled away at a ridiculous pace. It took less than 10km for the gap to extend to almost 30-minutes.

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The question would be, could Rachid hold this pace? In 2018 he crumbled with 20km to go and fought fatigue and dehydration to take victory, but in the process he collapsed in the arms of RD Amir and ended up on IV drips.

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This year he was prepared. I have seen Rachid run all over the world and here he impressed me like no other time – cool, calm, controlled and metronomic. Somehow, on a more difficult course he ran a new CR crossing the line 8:21:39.

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Behind the Moroccan, it was carnage as the heat and course took its toll. But early protagonist Mosbah Lagha from Tunisia flew the home flag and battled hard to hold on for 2nd in 10:17:02 ahead of another Moroccan, Rachid Aamimi El Armani who crossed the line in 11:18:21.

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For the women, 2018 champion Elisabet Barnes was feeling strong and after cp1 and pushed the pace.

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Bouchra Lundgren Eriksen was having none of it though and marked the move eventually taking the lead. Bouchra pulled away, an error going off course gave Elisabet the lead once again but Bouchra quickly hunted her down and regained control.

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After cp2, the heat and soft-sand took its toll with many drop-outs including the 2018 1st and 2nd place runners, Elisabet and Sondre Amdahl.

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Bouchra was now taking control of the front of the race and last year’s 2nd place, Oriane Dujardin kept her in contact until the final 25% when Bouchra pulled away to take victory in 11:20:54.

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Oriane was a clear 2nd in 12:02:23 and Judith Havers from Germany placed 3rd in 13:24:06.

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The story of the day though was intense heat, a tough and relentless course and dehydration. As in any race, nothing is guaranteed. Rachid’s performance was spectacular, the CR may well last for some time!

STARTERS: 168
FINISHERS: 117
ABANDONS / DNF: 51

New record : Rachid El Morabity

Men overall

1. Rachid Elmorabity🇲🇦08:21:39

2. Mosbah Lagha 🇹🇳10:17:02

3. Rachid Aamimi El Amrani 🇲🇦11:18:21

Women overall 

1. Bouchra Lundgren Eriksen🇩🇰11:20:54

2. Oriane Dujardin🇫🇷12:02:23

3. Judith Havers🇩🇪13:24:06

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You can obtain more specific information from the race website, HERE

RACE IMAGES HERE

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Ultra Mirage El Djerid 100km 2019 Race Preview – Fierce Mind’s Edition

The 2019 Ultra Mirage El Djerid 100k #UMED rolls closer. Now in its 3rd edition, this 100km desert race based in Tozeur, Tunisia, North Africa brings 300 runners from all over the world to experience something very special in a unique environment.

The 1st edition had just 60 runners from 12 countries, for 2018, these numbers escalated to over 150 and a remarkable 20+ countries for 2018 and now 300 will toe the line.

Tozeur is the main city of the Djerid, known for its stunning surroundings it has a mixture of rocky mountains, valleys, salt lakes and desert dunes. The Ultra Mirage© El Djerid (UMED) is the first 100km Ultra Trail taking place in the stunning Tunisian Sahara desert.

A single-stage race that takes runners across a wide diversity of terrain, the start is at Mos Espa, famous as a movie set and tourist attraction as it was the home of Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars movie. The film set still exists and provides all involved a great opportunity for a photo before or after the race!

Soft sand, small dunes, rocks, dried river beds and multiple oasis, participants have 20-hours to finish the race with very specific deadlines to reach each of the checkpoints which will be between 15-20km apart. Starting at 0700, the race concludes at 0300.

Offering 4 ITRA points and equal prize money for the top female and male athletes, the 2019 edition of UMED looks set to be a great race: #1 EUR 3000, #2 EUR 1500, #3 EUR 500.

2018 Champions, Rachid El Morabity and Elisabet Barnes return to defend their crowns, can they beat the course records? Mohamed El Morabity has a faster time from 2017, (08:48:11) but the race route was very different! Elisabet Barnes set the 2018 record, 10:12:12. However, the 2019 route does have approximately 20% course change, and in the words of Race Director, Amir Ben Gacem:

“From cp3 at 50km is identical to last year: straight long lines in the desert. The first part will be the same for the first 20km across Chott el Gharsa. But between 20km and 50km we are probably changing the route to skip the road section in favour of plain desert. It will be more difficult as there will be no shade at all except at check points, and there will be more soft sand.”

MEN

Rachid is the outright favourite and little more needs to be said, he is the desert king. Rachid’s brother, Mohamed, will also return. The duo, both desert specialists, encountered difficult races in 2018 – the intense heat challenging them. Rachid collapsed at the finish line with dehydration and exhaustion, his brother making the podium after a very difficult final 20km. As desert experts, Rachid a multiple champion at Marathon des Sables, Mohamed equally a desert expert, but often in the shadow of his older brother, they are without doubt favorites for the 2019 title.

Sondre Amdahl from Norway will also return after making the podium in 2018 and nearly upstaging the desert king, Rachid. The final 10km really was a spectacular battle as they traded run stride and cadence to be champion. Sondre has raced at Marathon des Sables where he placed in the top 10. Certainly, the single-stage format and 100km distance will suit him as he proved last-year, however, he has been injured recently and therefore his form may well be below his own exacting standards.

Christophe Le Saux, France, also toes the line. He is a long distance expert, has a great history with MDS and he loves the desert. The men’s race will be interesting in 2019!

 

The UK’s Ben Whitfield will not be a name you know, but mark my words, you will after the 2019 UMED!

WOMEN

Two-time Marathon des Sables champion, Elisabet Barnes, will head up the women’s race and after placing 4th overall, setting a CR in 2018, she is without doubt the favorite. A solid June and July saw Elisabet clock some great training miles which she has tried to maintain throughout August.

Bouchra Lundgren Eriksen will push Elisabet for the victory, a very accomplished marathon runner and podium finisher at MDS, she may well be the one person who challenges the MDS Queen, Elisabet, for victory.

Oriane Dujardin placed 2nd in 2018 and ran a solid and consistent race. With more experience and one year of training, she will once again contend the podium.

Rebecca Ferry has experience in multi-day racing and ultra-running, particularly at the 100km distance. She recently ran CCC and DNF’d, however, she has kept her powder dry since. If she has a good day, she will definitely contend the podium.

Chefia Hendaoui is the female Tunisian hope and she made the podium in 2018 – can she place higher?

As in any race, nothing is guaranteed. As the distance takes its toll, the soft-sand wears the runners down and the heat exhausts, anything can happen. Stay tuned for the action as it unfolds in Tunisia. No doubt, some names will shine that are not mentioned here.

One thing is for sure, the desert, Tunisia and the UMED organisation will provide a special experience for all.

Runners will start to arrive in Tunisia from Thursday 28th and transfer to Tozeur. Friday is registration and briefing and then the action starts Saturday, 0700.

You can obtain more specific information from the race website, HERE

Episode 162 – Beth Pascall, Casey Morgan, Brutal Claire and Elisabet Barnes

Episode 162 of Talk Ultra brings you a chat with Beth Pascall who placed 4th at the 2018 UTMB. We speak with Casey Morgan about injury and future plans and Brutal Claire will make us all feel lazy and inadequate in an inspiring chat. Elisabet Barnes co-hosts and tells us all about her victory and 4th overall at Ultra Mirage in Tunisia.
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*****
NEWS 00:35:36
ULTRA MIRAGE
What a day… Rachid El Morabity and Elisabet Barnes take the victory. Read the story HERE
GRINDSTONE 100
Michael Owen and Shannon Howell won the tough hundo in 20:08 and 22:22.
PIRIN SKY ULTRA
Pere Aurell ended the season as he started with victory! He kicked of the the year with victory at Transvulcania and here won again and the SWS world title. Benat Marmissolle was 2nd and Dmitry Mityaev 3rd – 7:44, 7:50 and 8:04 for the 66km with 4400m of vert!
For the women, Brittany Peterson took her first win, great result! Emily Hagwood (rising star) was 2nd and Antoniya Grigorova was 3rd, 9:01, 9:38 and 9:39.
ELS 2900
Dakota Jones and Nicke Elson took the top honours at arguably one of the most extreme races out there! Approx 70km and an estimated 6700m vert – runners in teams of two navigate all the peaks in Andorra as fast as possible by a route that they decide. They must ego to certain checkpoints but otherwise it is open to the imagination!
Husband and wife team, Konrad Rawlik and Jasmin Paris took the mixed team prize.
Only 50 people start in teams of two, 15 teams finished.
ULTRA PIRINEU
Ekaterina Mityeava finally took top honours in 15:12 ahead of Magdalena Lack and Roser Espanol, 15:56 and 16:31.
For the men, Jessed Hernandez beat Zaid Ait Malek and Jordi Gamito, 12:35, 12:40 and 13:01.
SPARTATHLON
The weather gods dropped everything on the race this year, huge congrats to Yoshihiko Ishikawa 22:54 and Zsuzsanna Maraz 27:04 for completing the distance.
*****
00:56:03 Interview with BETH PASCALL
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01:33:25 Interview with CASEY MORGAN
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02:03:33 Interview with BRUTAL CLAIRE
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02:56:22 CLOSE
02:57:44
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Please support Talk Ultra by becoming a Patron at www.patreon.com/talkultra and THANKS to all our Patrons who support us. Rand Haley and Simon Darmody get a mention on the show here for ‘Becoming 100k Runners’ with a high-tier Patronage.
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UP & COMING RACES go to https://marathons.ahotu.com

Episode 154 – Ryan Sandes, Elisabet Barnes, Ultra Mirage, Keely Henninger

Episode 154 of Talk Ultra is a packed show! We speak with Ryan Sandes about his amazing FKT with Ryno Griesel on a section of Nepal’s Great Himalayan Trail. Elisabet Barnes discusses taking a break, looking at nutrition and how to return to training and racing healthy. We speak to Amir Ben Gacem about Ultra Mirage and we offer a free place! The Godfather of Trail, Kurt Decker brings us a chat with Keely Henninger and of course, Speedgoat Karl co-hosts!
*****
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Talk Ultra needs your help!
We have set up a Patreon page and we are offering some great benefits for Patrons… you can even join us on the show! This is the easiest way to support Talk Ultra and help us continue to create!
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*****
00:12:22 NEWS
CHUCKANUT 50K
Keely Henninger took victory ahead of Anne-Marie Madden and Gina Slaby, times 4:07, 4:15 and 4:28.
Cole Watson won in 3:36 ahead of Patrick Smyth 3:40 and Paddy O’Leary in 3:47.
*****
00:14:27 Interview with KEELY HENNINGER
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MIKE FOOTE SETS WR
Imagine skiing for 24-hours uphill and down again. Foote climbed a huge 61.200ft. He went up a 1020ft ski run (up and down) 60 x.
BEHIND THE ROCKS ULTRA
Courtney Dewaulter winning again ahead of Addie Bracy and Serena Wilcox.
For the men it was Kyle Pietari ahead of Jessie Rosales andEddie Aispuro. Winning time 7:48 for the men and 7:51 for the ladies… Dewaulter was 2nd!
ANTELOPE ISLAND 100
Jeff Browning doing it again at the 100! A win in 15:57 which is fast! Dana Anderson won the ladies race in 20:15.
BARKLEY
The Barkley won this year with nobody making it to the 4th or 5th lap. Gary Robbins managed a ‘fun run’ finish of 3 laps. Really tough conditions out there!
GHT FKT by Ryan Sandes and Ryno Griesel
Press Release:

On 1 March 2018, South African trail runners Ryan Sandes and Ryno Griesel bravely set out to establish a new FKT along compatriot Andrew Porter’s roughly 1400km GHT Route across the Himalayas from Hilsa to Pashupatinagar in Nepal, combining the Great Himalaya Trails High Route and Lower Cultural Route. With the previous FKT on this route standing at 28 days, 13 hours and 56 mins the two smashed the record – with 4 days to spare.

***

“This has been the biggest adventure of my life, but incredibly challenging at the same time, especially mentally to just keep going day in and day out for so long,” exclaimed Sandes at the final checkpoint.

***

“Traversing any of The Great Himalaya Trails has always been a dream of mine There were so many ups and downs along the route that we could never have anticipated but I’m so stoked we pushed on and made it through. Alongside my win at Western States 100 last year, this has to be one of my biggest sporting accomplishments to date!”

***

The attempt saw Sandes and Griesel traverse heavily snow-covered mountains and experience some incredibly extreme weather conditions that were unusual for this time of the year along the way. They suffered frost-bitten fingers, serious tummy bugs, breathing difficulties and a couple of near death experiences. A constant on the route, however, was the incredibly welcoming spirit of the Nepalese people who truly embody the spirit of Namaste, and welcomed the both of them into their homes.

***

“We were the first people to cross the Dolpa region since the start of winter, which made the going very difficult to navigate and very slow,” commented Griesel. “I had to keep taking my gloves off to read the maps and managed to get terrible frost bite on my fingers, which has been painful. One of the villages on our map in that region, a spot where we had hoped to get accommodation, was completely deserted. I honestly believe that if we hadn’t come across a monk and monastery that night we would have frozen to death outside.”

***

Sandes echoed Griesel’s sentiment: “The Nepalese people were amazing! We knocked on their doors late at night, two filthy dirty South Africans, who speak very little Nepalese, and they not only welcomed us into their homes without hesitation, but they have also gave us their beds and gone to sleep at neighbours so that we have accommodation!” says Sandes. “It has been humbling to meet these incredible people. I doubt anyone back home would have opened their homes to strangers as easily as the Nepalse citizens we met along the way have to us.”

***

The pair were thrown another curveball when the route they had plotted prior to leaving for the attempt, in fact turned out to be almost 200km longer than they had previously anticipated.

“The maps on the computer tend to flatten out the track quite a bit as it obviously doesn’t drop a point every single meter, so the distance you work out on the computer is actually a lot shorter than what it is really measured at,” noted Griesel. “What we experienced on the ground was far more brutal that what we had plotted out on the computer, but it was all part of the adventure.”

***

“We would like to thank the trail running community for their incredible support in the lead up to and throughout our FKT record attempt,” said Sandes. “It has been great to read all of the messages of encouragement and support. And to the Nepalese people, we can never say thank you enough for your incredible hospitality and friendliness, there is definitely no other place on earth like Nepal.”

*****
01:02:36  Interview with RYAN SANDES
*****
01:39:06 Interview with ELISABET BARNES
*****
Ultra Mirage El Djerid 
The Ultra Mirage© El Djerid (UMED) is the first 100km Ultra Trail taking place in the stunning Tunisian Sahara Desert. A 20-hour time limit, five checkpoints, medical and technical help to ensure safety, the UMED is open to all runners. Importantly for the fleet of foot, prize money is available totaling 10.000 euros split equally between the male and female fields.
WIN a FREE PLACE HERE
*****
02:24:40 Interview with AMIR BEN GACEM race director for UMED
*****
UP & COMING RACES go to https://marathons.ahotu.com
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    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Potawatomi Trail Runs
    50 Miler
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Pekin
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Potawatomi Trail Runs
    150 Miler
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Pekin
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Potawatomi Trail Runs
    30 Miler
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Pekin
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    Night RaceTrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Potawatomi Trail Runs
    100 Miler
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Pekin
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Super Awesome! Arkansas Edition
    50K
    North America / USA / West South Central / Arkansas / Jonesboro
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Ultra Fiord
    Ultra Fiord 70K
    South America / Chile / Puerto Natales
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra Fiord
    Ultra Fiord 100M
    South America / Chile / Puerto Natales
    2018-04-05
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Down Under 135
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Victoria / Bacchus Marsh
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • LXVII Milhas Romanas
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Extremadura / Mérida
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • LXVII Milhas Romanas
    XXX Millas Romanas
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Extremadura / Mérida
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    RunningSoloMore info
  • Patagonia Run
    100k
    South America / Argentina / San Martín de los Andes
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    Western States QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Patagonia Run
    100Mi
    South America / Argentina / San Martín de los Andes
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    Western States QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Ragnar Relay So Cal
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Huntington Beach
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Super Awesome! Tennessee Edition
    50K
    North America / USA / East South Central / Tennessee / West
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Ultra Fiord
    Ultra Fiord 100K
    South America / Chile / Puerto Natales
    2018-04-06
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • American River 50-mile Endurance Run
    50 Miles
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Sacramento
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningPoint to PointSoloMore info
  • Bergen Maratonkarusellen no3
    Bergen Maratonkarusellen no3 – 1 1/2 Marathon
    Europe / Northern Europe / Norway / Bergen
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Bergen Maratonkarusellen no3
    Bergen Maratonkarusellen no3 – Ultra 100km
    Europe / Northern Europe / Norway / Bergen
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Brazos Bend 50
    100K
    North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Needville
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningFlatSoloMore info
  • Brazos Bend 50
    50 Mile
    North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Needville
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningFlatSoloMore info
  • Brazos Bend 50
    50K
    North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Needville
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningFlatSoloMore info
  • Bull Run Run 50 Mile
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Virginia / Clifton
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • BVG Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Lombardy / Salò BS
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • BVG Trail
    BVG Marathon +
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Lombardy / Salò BS
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Coastal Trail Series – Exmoor
    Coastal Trail Series – Exmoor – Ultra
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Devon / Exmoor National Park
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info
  • Enkarterri Extrem Trails
    Maratón Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Basque Country / Zaramillo
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMountainMore info
  • Enkarterri Extrem Trails
    Ultra Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Basque Country / Zaramillo
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMountainMore info
  • Enkarterri Extrem Trails
    Long Trail
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Basque Country / Zaramillo
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMountainMore info
  • Hells Hills Trail Run
    50 mile
    North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Smithville
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Hells Hills Trail Run
    50 km
    North America / USA / West South Central / Texas / Smithville
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Inatel Piódão Trail Running
    50 km
    Europe / Southern Europe / Portugal / Inatel Piódão
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailWalkingSoloMore info
  • Jabulani Challenge
    Jabulani Challenge 45 km
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Lindfield
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Kielder Ultra Trail
    80 km
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Northumberland / Kielder
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Kielder Ultra Trail
    100 km
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Northumberland / Kielder
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Kielder Ultra Trail
    50 km
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Northumberland / Kielder
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Le Grand Défi des Vosges
    Le Défi des Seigneurs
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Alsace / Bas-Rhin / Niederbronn-les-Bains
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Marató de la Fageda
    Marató
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Fageda
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningSingle loopSoloMore info
  • Marató de la Fageda
    Trail la Fageda
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Fageda
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningSingle loopSoloMore info
  • Ozark Foothills 50K/25K
    50K
    North America / USA / West North Central / Missouri / Wildwood
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Patagonia Run
    70k
    South America / Argentina / San Martín de los Andes
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Rockin K Trail Runs
    Rocking K Trail 50 Mile Run
    North America / USA / West North Central / Kansas / Kanopolis State Park, Marquette
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Shotgun Trail Blast
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / Oregon / Marcola
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningFlatMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • South Downs Way 50
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / East Sussex / Eastbourne
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Squak Mountain Trail Runs
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / Washington / Issaquah
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Super Awesome! Kentucky Edition
    50K
    North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Paducah
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Tar Springs Ranch Ultra
    50k Run/Walk/Hike
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Arroyo Grande
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMore info
  • The ONER
    The ONER Half Day Section
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Dorset / Lyme Regis
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • The ONER
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / England / Dorset / Lyme Regis
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Trail de l’Aber-Wrac’h
    Alternative Race
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Brittany / Finistère / Le Folgoët
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Trail des 2 Rivieres
    60 km
    Africa / Eastern Africa / Réunion / Saint-Joseph
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Trail des 2 Rivieres
    60 km Relais
    Africa / Eastern Africa / Réunion / Saint-Joseph
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Ultramarathon des Ziban
    Africa / Northern Africa / Algeria / Biskra
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    DesertRoadRunningSoloMore info
  • Ultra Trail Barcelona
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Begues
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info
  • Ultra Trail Barcelona
    Long Trail Barcelona
    Europe / Southern Europe / Spain / Catalonia / Begues
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    MountainUTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info
  • Umstead 100 Mile Endurance Run
    50 Mile
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / North Carolina / Raleigh
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    RunningSoloMore info
  • Umstead 100 Mile Endurance Run
    100 Mile
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / North Carolina / Raleigh
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    Western States QualifierTrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Vale of Glamorgan Coastal Ultra Challenge
    Full Course
    Europe / Northern Europe / United Kingdom / Wales / Penarth
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Woodside Crossover /Purisima Creek Crossover
    50K
    North America / USA / Pacific / California / Woodside
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Yamacraw 50k/10k
    Yamacraw 50k
    North America / USA / East South Central / Kentucky / Stearns
    2018-04-07
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • 3 Waters Running Festival
    3 Waters 50km Ultra Marathon
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Western Australia / Bunbury
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Brew to Brew Relay
    Solo
    North America / USA / West North Central / Missouri / Kansas City
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Cape Cod Trail Race
    50K
    North America / USA / New England / Massachusetts / East Falmouth
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Le Grand Défi des Vosges
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Alsace / Bas-Rhin / Niederbronn-les-Bains
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Les Terrasses du Lodévois
    45 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Languedoc-Roussillon / Hérault / Lodève
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Mad City Ultras
    100K
    North America / USA / East North Central / Wisconsin / Madison
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Mad City Ultras
    50K
    North America / USA / East North Central / Wisconsin / Madison
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMultiple loopsSoloMore info
  • Mad City Ultras
    50K Relay
    North America / USA / East North Central / Wisconsin / Madison
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RoadRunningMultiple loopsRelayMore info
  • Mount Buller Skyrun
    Mount Buller Skyrun 45 km
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / Victoria / Mirimbah
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    MountainTrailRunningMore info
  • Mt Solitary Ultra
    Oceania / Australia and New Zealand / Australia / New South Wales / Wentworth Falls
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillyMore info
  • Super Awesome! Illinois Edition
    50K
    North America / USA / East North Central / Illinois / Metropolis
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    RunningMore info
  • Super Trail Nantais
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Pays de la Loire / Loire-Atlantique / Nantes
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningSoloMore info
  • Super Trail Nantais
    Super Trail Nantais (relais)
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Pays de la Loire / Loire-Atlantique / Nantes
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Trail de l’Aber-Wrac’h
    Trail Extrême Duo 55 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Brittany / Finistère / Le Folgoët
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningRelayMore info
  • Trail de l’Aber-Wrac’h
    Trail Extrême 55 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Brittany / Finistère / Le Folgoët
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trail delle Valli Etrusche
    Ultratrail delle Valli Etrusche
    Europe / Southern Europe / Italy / Tuscany / Castiglion Fiorentino
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trail des 2 Amants
    53 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Upper Normandy / Eure / Pîtres
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    UTMB QualifierTrailRunningMore info
  • Trail des Reculées
    Les Laves
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Franche Comté / Jura / Lons-le-Saunier
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningHillySoloMore info
  • Trail du Josas
    50 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Ile de France / Yvelines / Jouy-en-Josas
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Trail So Bugey
    44 km
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Rhône-Alpes / Ain / Lhuis
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Trail So Bugey
    44 km Relais Duo
    Europe / Western Europe / France / Rhône-Alpes / Ain / Lhuis
    2018-04-08
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Ragnar Trail Atlanta – GA, Presented by Salomon
    Ragnar Trail Atlanta- GA, Presented by Salomon
    North America / USA / South Atlantic / Georgia / Conyers
    2018-04-13
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunningMore info
  • Zumbro 100
    Zumbro 100M
    North America / USA / West North Central / Minnesota / Zumbro Falls
    2018-04-13
    Ultramarathon
    TrailRunning
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Ultra Mirage© El Djerid #UMED 2018 Race Package

Join Marathon des Sables champions, Rachid El Morabity, Elisabet Barnes and the Ultra Mirage© El Djerid 2017 champion, Mohamed El Morabity for the ultimate 100km desert experience. Soft sand, rocks, small dunes, dried river beds, oasis and a multitude of soft-sand, Ultra Mirage© El Djerid is a single-stage race to test the minds and legs of runners who are looking for a new adventure.

The Ultra Mirage© El Djerid (UMED) is the first 100km Ultra Trail taking place in the stunning Tunisian Sahara Desert. A 20-hour time limit, five checkpoints, medical and technical help to ensure safety, the UMED is open to all runners. Importantly for the fleet of foot, prize money is available totaling 10.000 euros split equally between the male and female fields.

Rachid running at the 2017 MDS Peru which he won.

Tunisia and in particular the area of the Djerid was the background of famous movies including Star Wars and the English Patient just to name a few. The diversity and the beauty of the Djerid makes it a major attraction for tourists from all around the world. Tozeur is the main city of this area, it is very well known for its stunning surroundings with a mixture of Rocky Mountains, valleys, salt lakes and desert dunes and most of all for the generosity of its people.

Elisabet Barnes at the 2017 Marathon des Sables.

“Ultra Mirage© El Djerid 100K’s first edition was full of emotions! It was one of those moments where total strangers gather in a single event to release the best humanity has to offer: friendship, kindness, camaraderie, sport, courage, endurance, perseverance, love, compassion, respect, just to name a few, and all of that in the most amazing surrounding of the Sahara Desert! For 2018, we are looking to build on that outstanding success, organizing a race which will be bigger on all fronts, from the number of runners which should top 300, to a more diverse path and scenery! Hope to see you at the starting line on the 29th of September 2018!!” Amir Ben Gacem, Race Director.

The race will take place on September 29th 2018, and a special package price has been arranged for 350 euro:

  • Domestic flights from Tunis
  • Ground transport
  • 2 nights’ accommodation in a 4* hotel
  • Race entry
  • Race Shirt, cap, bag, medal and certificate

It’s an incredible package at a stunning price. Runners expected to fly into Tunis Carthage Airport (connected to all major European cities) at their own cost. Departure will be on Friday 28th September from Tunis to Tozeur international airport. Return on Sunday 30th September late afternoon.

Planning schedule:

Friday 28th September

16:00 Meeting at Tunis-Carthage Airport

17:30 Departure to Tozeur

18:40 Arrival at Tozeur-Nefta Airport

18:45 Transfer to Hotel

19:00 Check-in / Dinner / Race Briefing

 

Saturday 29th September

05:00 Breakfast opens

05:45 Departure to start line by bus

06:00 Last bus departs

06:30 Arrival at start line / Ultra Mirage village

07:00 Race starts

 

Shuttle buses will assure runners transfer from Ultra Mirage village to hotel every hour.

 

Sunday 30th September

03:00 Race finish

06:00 Breakfast opens

11:00 Closing ceremony

14:00 Transfer to Tozeur-Nefta Airport

16:00 Departure to Tunis

17:10 Arrival at Tunis-Carthage Airport

 

WIN A FREE PLACE

In conjunction with Amir Ben Gacem and Ultra Mirage© El Djerid we are offering readers of this website and listeners to Talk Ultra podcast the opportunity to win a 350-euro package place.

The winner will need to cover return costs to Tunis.

QUESTION:

Name the home planet of Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars movie?

Race Information and entry

Race website HERE

Enter the race HERE

Facebook page HERE