What I learned from 230km ultra-marathon race in Kenya over 5 exhausting days
A runner recounts their experience participating in the 230km For Rangers Ultra marathon through Kenyan wildlife conservancies. The article details the physical and mental challenges of the race, including navigating wildlife encounters and extreme environmental conditions.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of extreme endurance sports and wildlife conservation efforts in Africa.
Halfway up a long hill in the Kenyan wilderness, a photographer pointed towards the bush. Just 20 metres (66 feet) away, a hyena was running through the undergrowth, chasing its prey.
It was exhilarating – and a little terrifying.
I was taking part in Beyond the Ultimate’s For Rangers Ultra, a five-day, 230km (143-mile) race through five Kenyan wildlife conservancies, where encounters like this were all part of the unique experience.
Armed rangers were stationed around 300 metres apart along the course, with additional lookouts on hilltops and a helicopter surveying the route. They monitored the animals and stopped runners when necessary, moving elephants away from the route with commands or vehicles. The helicopter also helped move big cats away from the runners.
Headphones were prohibited – we needed to remain alert to the wildlife. There would be no escaping into podcasts or music when the going got tough.
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