For some, running is a simple pleasure, often personified by a brisk morning jog. For others, the race has a different flavor, which sometimes takes the form of an expedition. What if the latter was like an adventure? Anyway, here’s what marathons and trails have to offer, organized in the coldest places on the planet. And in this fierce race, Antarctica attracts some greed. Who has never wanted to push their limits at -20°C or even -30°C? A small anthology of these extreme tribes.
North Pole Marathon
fig-i-c7ec791fdd8a9ae55f384984f021d8f0 fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
Enduring the extreme cold, being in very good physical condition, being able to pay 17,900 euros… The prerequisites for participating in the North Pole Marathon are the challenge. Participants in this extreme event will indeed have to cover about 42 kilometers in extreme temperatures that can easily drop to -40° or even lower. A big challenge.
The next race. Two sessions are scheduled for 2023: the 17th edition (already completed), scheduled for April 10, 2023, and the 18th edition, April 13, 2023.
To learn more here
Antarctic Ice Marathon, Antarctica
fig-i-def0a4f71ad9902cb89b92d236833cac fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
Discover the luxuries of Antarctica while going beyond. The promises of the Antarctic Ice Marathon are many. And the temperature, milder than the North Pole Marathon (-20°C on average), should tempt some fans of chilly experiences. Be careful though. This 42 kilometer race is not for everyone. count $19,500 (€18,870) to enter this extraordinary contest.
The next race. It will be held from December 9 to 15, 2022 (weather permitting). The same dates are planned for 2023.
To learn more here
The last desert, Antarctica
fig-i-8903ada1f275afaaa79759fd6389a016 fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
Fans of extreme challenges, this race seems to be made for you. Because unlike the others, The Last Desert takes place over several days. Participants do have to trek 250 kilometers through the Antarctic wilderness, featuring icebergs, white mountains as far as the eye can see, and some welcome visitors like penguins and seals. To participate, you need to pay 12,900 dollars or a little more than 12,470 euros.
The next race. From November 25 to December 1, 2022.
To learn more here
6633 Ultra in Canada
fig-i-42b4abe1a07344002f40c326112feb29 fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
The festival is set: 6633 Ultra is not just a race, but an expedition, we announce on the competition website. And the latter requires courage and persistence. Because the event takes place in the Canadian Arctic, the Yukon. An area known for its sometimes extreme weather conditions (some gusts of wind can drop the mercury to -60°C or more). Several formats are offered, including 193 kilometers (120 miles) or 402 kilometers (250 miles), during which candidates must be self-sufficient. In other words, they can carry their own equipment, food and clothing. It is also necessary to withstand a significant drop, which reaches more than 3500 meters. The price of this suffering. From £2,950 (approx. €3,390), depending on the formula chosen.
The next race. The race starts on February 23, 2023.
To learn more here
Hypothermic Half Marathon in Canada
fig-i-09ca7dfbe9204beba22409690e52431b fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
For those who were intimidated by the previous race, there seems to be another one with a more affordable price and effort; Hypothermic Half Marathon. Beware of the temperature though. Because even if it’s a half-marathon, the thermometer can quickly drop to several tens of degrees below zero. Several formulas are available: 21 kilometers, 10 kilometers and 5 kilometers. Reasonably priced: 75 to 80 Canadian dollars (54 to 58 euros, approximately). A gateway to all these frosty tribes.
The next race. In February 2023. Departures are from several cities, including Edmonton, Winnipeg and Calgary, with dates that may vary.
To learn more here
Cold Pole, Siberia
In January 2022, several dozen runners took part in one of the coldest races in the world, the Cold Pole. During this edition, this 42 kilometer marathon also set negative temperature records, reaching… -53°C. Not enough to discourage participants who traveled from Oimyakon (or Oymyakon) in Eastern Siberia. Remarkable fact. the small town is regularly mentioned in the press as the coldest village in the world.
Baikal ice marathon in Siberia
fig-i-24fc45983d0c302c0d2676afcbedc557 fig-lazy fig-placeholder–with-dimensions” data-module=”fig-photo” data-context=”was @visible” data-modal-image=’
A true natural jewel, Lake Baikal offers a stunning sight in winter, turning into an outdoor skating rink. A metamorphosis that allows the most experienced runners to travel on the frozen waters of the lake, which is considered a real biological laboratory. This marathon (42 kilometers) is usually organized as part of a major winter sports festival on Lake Baikal, the Winteriad, which includes, among other things, ice fishing tournaments and ice skating races.
Bonus: Vasaloppet, in Sweden
And for those who are no longer content with running, why not try skiing? This is what Vasaloppet in Sweden offers. The principle. 90 kilometers should be covered on skis in minimum time. Far from being a walk in the park, this race requires good physical fitness and a strong mind to take on the hundreds of participants each year. Cost? 1995 Swedish crowns or about 182 euros.
The next race. March 5, 2023
To learn more here
Source: Le Figaro
I’m Ashley Mark, a news website author for Buna Times. I specialize in writing articles about current trends and breaking news stories. With my passion for uncovering the truth behind every story, I strive to bring readers the most up-to-date information available.