Ultrarunning
This is one of the hardest and harshest ultra-marathons in the world
A 250km race, held over six days, where competitors have to carry all their gear and food. Get the lowdown on the Patagonian round of Racing the Planet.
Considered to have some of the hardest races in the world, the 4 Deserts/Racing the Planet series are all six day, multi-stage, 250km ultra-marathons in different and remote locations across the globe – where competitors are expected to carry all their gear and food for the entire duration of the race.
Competitors have all the gear they need on them at all times
© Thiago Diz
At the 2017 Racing the Planet in Patagonia, 291 brave men and women set out on what would probably be the toughest journey of their lives. On the start line, an impressive array of racers stood, all of who were willing to explore new territory, and push their minds and bodies to new levels. And, most importantly, foster a willingness to compete with themselves.
Exploring incredible terrain
© Thiago Diz
"One of the main reasons I was there was to break the stereotype that new mothers can’t be adventurous," competitor Andrea Andrews from Chile said of her participation. "I like to push myself and see what I’m capable of."
Camping under the stars
© Thiago Diz
On the first day, competitors set out to cover 250km of unknown territory through Patagonia’s gnarly landscapes, running through everything from single track dense pine forests to pampas and through iconic national parks.
A region steeped with natural wonder
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They crossed over glacial rivers and ran along hundred-year-old train tracks and wooden bridges. They climbed mountains and ran below rainbows, rain, sun, heat, snow, and cutting-cold winds, with packs of wild horses and under bright clear milky way skies in search of the indescribable joy that comes with overcoming all the limits of body and mind during such an intense experience.
Running over old wooden bridges
© Thiago Diz
At the finish line of each stage, competitors rested at campsites, where seven racers shared tents set-up in different remote locations. Some bathed by glacial rivers and others were in the shadow of majestic mountains and glaciers, such as the El Tronador and the Black Glacier.
It was cosy at night with 7 people to a tent
© Thiago Diz
During the afternoons and evenings, camp fires burned and competitors gathered close for company and to keep themselves warm in the freezing temperatures. It's also where competitors had access to boiling water to prepare their high-calorie freeze-dried meals.
Taking the chance to fuel up
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The most demanding day of all was the 'Long March' – a long, cold, tough-as-nails 80km stage. In driving rain and bitter cold, competitors set on what became, for some, a battle in excess of 24-hours duration to endure the toughest weather, terrain and altitude gain yet.
Battling against bad weather
© Thiago Diz
Runners also dealt with body pains and blisters caused by constant damp feet and grinding sand inside their shoes. Needless to say, the medical tent was one of the most popular places at the campsites.
Taking the less ventured path
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When exhaustion gets into your head you tend to look down and just focus on getting there. And then I remember that I am here because of the books I read about the first adventurers on this land. Then I immediately look up and use all the beauty and power around me to help me keep on going.
Taking on adventure with other like-minded individuals
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Some had it really tough during the Long March and found themselves running exhausted and wet through in the snow for the entire night. Despite the difficulties, all the competitors completed the Long March and eventually the final 15km day, where they were delighted to arrive at what was an unforgettable finishing line just below the majestic El Tronador.
You'll never tire of the views
© Thiago Diz
The prize? Transformation of personal values. An immersion into humbleness. The certainty of the greatest adventure of their lives and the desire for more.
Interested in the 4 Deserts/Racing the Planet adventures? See what you can sign up for here.