Lesotho Ultra Trail - official press release

On 30 November 2013, Skyrunners® from all over the world will toe the start line of the inaugural Lesotho Ultra Trail - Africa's first Ultra Skymarathon® - ready to tackle the 55km, high altitude course through the Tsehlanyane National Park in the heart of the Maloti Mountains of Lesotho.

As the event continues to attract the keen interest of both the local and international trail running communities, four of the world's top international men's athletes have already confirmed their entry into the race. Americans Mike Wolfe (The North Face), winner of the 2012 Transvulcania Dakota Jones (Montrail/Clif Bar), and 2nd place finisher at the 2012 Hardrock 100 Joe Grant (INOV-8/Arc'teryx), will join 2012 Canadian ultra trail runner of the year Adam Campbell (Arc'teryx) in making the long trip across the Atlantic Ocean to go head to head with some of South Africa's best.

According to Murray this is his best performance by far in South Africa. “This is my first South African title. I swam with Tim Don, exiting the water seconds behind him and only 25 seconds ahead of Conrad Stoltz. I was uncertain going into the bike and really expected Conrad to catch me sooner. It was only on the 10km mark that he caught me and then proceeded to pull away. He just has so much power in his legs. I was about 30 or 40 seconds behind Conrad coming into transition and managed to pull him about half way through the run. From there I just kept it together till the end. It was a big day for me. I’ve wanted this win for the last 3 to 4 years. The Totalsports XTERRA is definitely the most contended race in South Africa. I had so much fun and will definitely be back next year,” says Murray.

An event official reported that Stoltz deviated from the run route and as a result official rules had to be applied and Stoltz had to be disqualified. Dan Hugo therefore took second place on the day, with Nico Pfitzenmaier finishing third.

Registrations are now open for Year 3 of the Amazing Maasai Ultra marathon, to be held in Laikipia North on 28 September. Runners from across Europe, Asia and the US are set to gather again in the foothills of Mt. Kenya for this unique running challenge and to experience life in the African bush. The 6-night race package option includes game drives, walking safaris, traditional Maasai village tours & performances. Weekend packages are also available.

 

“The run takes place in a very remote area, far off the tourist trails”, explain race directors Sarah Edson and Molly Fitzpatrick. Vast African vistas are the backdrop and a very special Maasai community is your host – it is truly a week of cultural, personal, and environmental exploration. “Last year we had a wide range of participants, including a team from the British Army, a Canadian TV crew, and even a 13-year old running the marathon to raise money for cancer research. What makes the race so unique though, is the participation of the local runners, who have such natural talent - it’s incredible to witness them all in action.” says Edson.

 

Patrolled by wildlife scouts

The race in the Laikipia North area is challenging. Runners need to acclimatize to an elevation of 1,800m. The course follows unsealed roads and paths in the bush terrain, with long hills, flat bush lands, and rolling countryside. Edson explains: “Since there is wildlife in the area, the course is patrolled by highly-experienced professional scouts, who track the animals and their movements and ensure the complete safety of our runners.” Besides the 75km ultra marathon and the 42km marathon distance, runners and walkers can also sign-up for a 21km half marathon. It is possible also to join for the race for just the weekend package.

 

High school scholarships for Maasai girls

All proceeds of the event are used to fund scholarships for local Maasai girls through the Amazing Maasai Girls Project, a non-profit US organization founded by the event organizers. “In the past two years, we have been able to raise 60,000 USD and are now financing 4-year high school scholarships for 30 bright girls who would not be able to afford school otherwise. We are aiming to continue our efforts this year, to give more girls a secondary education and empower them to be independent young women with their own voices”, outlines Molly Fitzpatrick.

 

For more information, please visit www.amazingmaasaiultra.org.

All things must come to an end…. the atmosphere around camp was a little subdued. Some participants looked relieved that they didn’t have to squeeze a pair of shoes onto blistered feet. For others, they seemed sad that another day on awesome Costa Rican trails didn’t await.

Some required quiet time away from the camp to walk Drake Beach as the sun welcomed a new day. Others huddled in groups telling stories of water crossings, quad busting descents and dehydration.

Ultimately every person had a story. Unique stories, personal to each participant, stories that they would hold within themselves forever. No matter how low the low points, the day after never seems so bad. If it was easy, everyone would do it…. The Coastal Challenge offers some very testing terrain with relentless heat and humidity to provide an overall race experience that will test each and every person. To cross the line on the final day requires commitment, dedication and some luck.

The logistics of mobilizing a camp and moving it everyday in tough terrain is nothing short of remarkable. The course marking and dedication from the TCC crew was available for all to see. This is no easy race to run, but it is certainly no easy race to coordinate. The catering team showed a dedication not often seen… rising at 0200 to have breakfast ready for 0400, break down camp, move to the next location, set up and then cook lunch ready for the runners arrival. Clear lunch and then prepare dinner all for the process to be repeated again. Respect!