Last updated: 09-May-19
By Luke Jarmey
Another splendid month of well crafted race and kit reviews from the community. Here’s our favourites and the top pick, Brett Blanchard who will receive a pack of 33Shake Chia Energy Gels.
Rat Race Mongol 100
Our top review for April comes from Brett. A exotic bucket list race such as the Mongol 100 deserves a thoroughly fantastic write up and this is exactly what we get.
‘One of the areas seldom mentioned in multi-stage or overnight endurance events is that you will be spending 24/7 (literally) with everyone who signs up. This important detail hit home at the Chinggis Khan Airport as roughly 30 people each with a massive kit bag loitered around waiting for the charter plane.’
‘While I will find another big adventure and plan on enjoying more endurance racing (and skating some amazing ice), it is the larger group camaraderie of the Mongol 100 that will be difficult to replicate.’
Read the full review here.
Inov-8 All Terrain Pro Vest 0-15
Dave Simpson’s certainly a fan of the Inov-8 All Terrain Pro Vest 0-15 and his experience seems to mirror that of RunUltra reviewer Dan. If you’re in the market for a hydration pack, this could very well be worth a look.
‘Have worn this for a few decent runs and I’m impressed with the build quality, general fit and the practicality.’
‘The shoulder pockets are fine and the zip pocket on the front can fit a smart phone easily.’
‘All in all I am chuffed with this vest and bag, well worth the money, cheers Inov-8.’
Read the full review here.
100 Miles of Istria
Described as a ‘Croatian jewel’ in her opening line, Louise McWilliams paints an intriguing picture of this amazing race. Sign us up.
‘Race start is downhill, always a bonus, but there are a few bottle neck points as you hit the trails. The first climb is steep. Very steep. And a definite sign of what the next 95 miles holds in store.’
‘The route is undoubtedly beautiful. Even across the trickiest terrain, you will still be in awe of your surroundings, truly unspoilt.’
Read the full review here.
The Oner Ultra Run
Boris Dehalu shares his account of The Oner Ultra, full to the brim with wonderful type 2 fun.
‘My toenails are still recovering from the Oner – Rab’s Ultra 2019. I started the race accompanied by another 92 fools like myself around 12pm on Saturday under the sunshine and unusually dry terrain…’
‘Great experience. Out of this world landscape. Do not attempt this adventure without preparation, a decent kit or if you are terrible at map reading.’
Read the full review here.
South Downs Way 50
‘If you are looking around for your first 50 mile ultra and live in the UK then give this race some serious consideration – you won’t be disappointed.’
Going by Alex Lee’s review, this sounds like a great option, particularly for runners new to the sport
‘Through quaint villages tucked away in valleys, the course is well marked and signposted throughout. If you get lost you’ve been running with your eyes closed or your mind transfixed elsewhere!’
‘I used this race as a marking point for a sub24hr attempt on this years Thames Path 100 and managed a time I could only have dreamed of.’
Read the full review here.
Peneda-Gerês Trail Adventure Race (PGTA)
Ian R delivers a deliciously detailed review of the PGTA. Written well, this is essential reading for any prospective racers.
‘This was a superb 8-day, 7-stage race through northern Portugal’s mountainous and bucolic terrain, much of it in the country’s only national park and even edging over the border into Spain for a short distance one day.’
‘The whole race is very accessible. Though a camping option exists, most chose to use the race hotels, some of which were very comfortable indeed, which together with the post-race lunches each day, complete with unlimited beers and food, made for a very comfortable way to relax and wind down prior to the next day’s stage.’
Read the full review here.
