RP270 Going the Distance—and Then Some
You've probably heard of the marathon, the 42-kilometer road race that closes the Olympic games every four years. Dating back to the first modern Olympics in 1896, it may be the best-known endurance test on earth. But is it the most extreme? Not by a long shot!
An ultramarathon is any race longer than the traditional marathon. Some ultramarathons are run over specified distances (with 50 kilometers, 100 kilometers, 50 miles, and 100 miles being the most common), while others are run over specified times to crown the runner who goes the furthest before the clock runs out. The 100-kilometer ultramarathon has been recognized as an official world record event by the International Association of Athletics Federations, but there are no plans to add it to the Olympiad anytime soon!
As you might imagine, running such long distances endangers the human body in many ways. Ultramarathon runners are more likely to experience breathing problems, bone fractures, cramps, stomach trouble, low body temperature, and other health issues than those who compete in shorter races.
Some ultramarathons are not competitive, but test one's endurance as an end in itself. These races have a "go as you please" system. This means that runners may walk, stop to eat and drink, or even sleep without losing anything but time. The 4 Deserts Race Series is one very extreme example. It consists of four 250-kilometer, seven-day races, each in a desert on a different continent. Runners are given water, tents to sleep in, and medical care if necessary. Otherwise, they must carry all their own supplies and take full responsibility for themselves. There is no time limit to complete the four races. Doing so in a single calendar year, however, qualifies as a 4 Deserts Grand Slam.
Few people can imagine running 42 kilometers, let alone 100 or 250. For some, though, there seems to be no limit to what the body and will can accomplish. In the ultramarathon, they may finally have found their ideal sport.
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