World’s Toughest Marathons: Nearly 50,000 runners are set to take on the Chicago Marathon this on 13 October.The 42.195km (26 mile, 385 yard) distance is an uphill task for even the most experienced runners, on any course.
Chicago Marathon is not alone. There are other marathons which test the endurance of the runners big time. Let us have a look at some of the world’s toughest marathons.
Everest Marathon
the Everest Marathon starts at 5,364 metres above sea level at Everest Base Camp on the side of the world’s highest mountain. The race is so challenging that runners have to clear certain medical checkups prior to running. In 2024, the winning time was nearly 4 hours, with Nepal’s Arjun Rai Kulung clocking in at 3:52:02. It is considered one of world’s toughest marathons.
Pikes Peak Marathon
the Pikes Peak Marathon in the United States offers another elevation challenge. the race climbs upto at 4,302 metres and runners can expect big inclines, rugged terrain, and the conditions that high altitude brings, in what’s considered the hardest marathon in the US.
Jungfrau Marathon
Jungfrau Marathon in Switzerland includes a steep midsection that lasts until nearly the end of the course. The runners will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the pristine Swiss Alps in return for their effort.
Great Wall of China Marathon
The Great Wall of China Marathon’s specific challenge comes with some 20,000 steps along the historic wall. The steps have almost no consistency and the heights of the steps can vary between 2.5 and 38 cm.
Also Read: Fastest Marathon Courses In The World
Polar Circle Marathon
The Polar Circle Marathon in Greenland and the Aurora Marathon in northern Norway are renowned for their scenery. Both events are set in sub-zero temperatures, but offer a chance to see the Northern Lights.
North Pole Marathon
The North Pole Marathon, and the Antarctic Ice Marathon are set at different ends of the planet. Both require runners to complete the race distance while running entirely on ice. With temperatures as low as -40c and wind chill with speed of 200km/hour, these events are some of the toughest courses on earth. The North Pole Marathon race is the northernmost, with a visit to the Geographic North Pole and a run on the floating ice sheet, with the ocean flowing beneath.
Antarctic Ice Marathon
The Antarctic Ice Marathon 2024 is dubbed as being the world’s most southernmost organised race at the 42.2km distance, offering runners a chance on the frozen continent and also join the seven continents club, for completing a race on all seven of the earth’s major landmasses.
