Last updated: 24-Aug-18
By Luke Jarmey
We’re pleased to announce our top reviews for June. Congratulations go to Ian Rowe who will receive a pack of 33Shake Chia Energy Gels.
Tenerife Bluetrail – Spain
‘What’s not to like about a trip to the Canary Islands and running across Tenerife, finishing at the sea at the start of your holiday? That’s what I did and it’s the perfect opportunity to combine a destination run with a bit of R&R.’
Well there’s certainly not much not to like about Ian’s Tenerife Bluetrail review. A fantastically written and detailed account of his experience at the event, it thoroughly deserves its spot as our top review for June.
‘It really was superb running now. Lots of ups and downs, very rocky but spectacular and beautiful. I found myself humming the Big Country theme music with the blue sky, cacti and mountains all around.’
In no particular order, here are our remaining top 9 reviews.
The Omen 66.6 – UK
‘This race deserves to be a lot bigger than it is in so many ways. Only a small field of runners, less than 20, left Guildford on a warm June morning, running past the Cathedral-scape made famous in The Omen.’
That opening paragraph definitely got us interested. Read the rest of Adam Waller-Toyne’s (@AdamToyne67) review to find out more about the intriguing sounding Omen 66.6.
London 2 Brighton Challenge – UK
Ben Coleman explains why the London 2 Brighton Challenge is a great race for the marathon runner looking to jump into the challenge of an ultra.
‘The 100km distance – although most people seemed to clock closer to 66miles – is tough but the course is mostly forgiving – aside from the insane hill at 88km.’
Mozart 100 – Austria
A beautifully detailed review of the Mozart 100 from Louise McWilliams (@ultralouweezy)
that really gives you a feel for the, quite literal, ups and downs of the course.
‘It’s just the mountain race that keeps on giving.. And no surprise that the 100 is a qualifier for Western States and gives 5 UTMB points!! ‘
Fire and Ice Ultra – Iceland
Another cracking review from Louise McWilliams. This time of the Fire and Ice ultra in Iceland.
‘There is truly one word to describe this race, and it is just..Epic’
‘The stages vary in length, the longest being day four, and each day has its own challenges for sure. Volcanic sand, lava rock, dunes, river crossings.. it’s all in here.’
Trail Menorca Camí de Cavalls – Spain
‘This is a truly epic event….but also brutal!! The island of Menorca is stunning, and having been on holiday there last year, the opportunity to do a ‘lap’ of the island was a challenge that I couldn’t turn down and so brought me back.’
Another great opener that leads onto another fantastically written review. Ben Cuttle’s account of his Camí de Cavalls experience is a must read. It’ll get you itching to sign up!
‘The course definitely broke me, but didn’t beat me, and I finally stumbled across the finish line after 33 hours 8 minutes. Never have I appreciated a ‘finisher’ t-shirt more!!’
Travesía Integral de los Montes Aquilianos – Spain
We’re well aware of RunUltra contributor Seth Grotzke’s (@AccidentalUltra) wordsmith skills and he does not disappoint in his account of the Travesía Integral de los Montes Aquilianos. Painting a picture of draw dropping scenery with a rather unique ‘underground’ style of racing. I.e. no money or medals on offer.
‘As I chatted with runners along the course I would ask, “How many years have you participated in this race?” Six years. Twelve years. Twenty Years. “And you?” came the reply. Gulp “It’s my first.”’
‘So why did I run this race which offers no money, fame, or medal? I guess because I’m family. That was enough for me.’
Keswick Mountain Festival Ultra Trail – UK
You can’t beat a meaty, information-laden review when trawling the internet researching your next race. Well Rebecca North absolutely hits the mark with her write up of the Keswick Mountain Festival – Ultra Trail. A must read for anyone contemplating this ultra.
‘We set off in a warm, still dawn, with beautiful views of the flat calm Derwent Water and misty fields. To be honest it was a relief to get moving and try and outrun the midges which had descended in the still air.’
‘If you’re thinking of doing this race I think it could probably be helpful to focus training on technical trails and downhills, as well as training for the distance.’
Pennine Barrier – UK
A short review of the Pennine Barrier from Gedlongworth. Overwhelmingly positive, it certainly seems like he had a great time.
‘The race itself was challenging but thoroughly enjoyable. It was clear to see that the race organisers really planned the course to take in all the breathtaking scenery.’
‘The value for money on this event is unreal, quality medal and t shirt at the finish line and then amazing race photos at no extra cost.’
Round Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon – UK
David Mather praises the amazing scenery and ‘vibe’ of this race in his top review of the Round Pen Llyn Ultra Marathon.
‘What a fantastic vibe there is to this race. The people are spectacular – equalled by the most wonderful scenery.’
‘There’s a bit of beach, some road sections and lots and lots of trail – some of it quite remote and not well trodden.’
