Woman running along wall, smiling with her hands in the air

How Women Are Taking Over the (Ultramarathon) World

Ultrarunning has long been viewed as one of the toughest challenges in sport, but in recent years, women have been reshaping what’s possible over extreme distances. From breaking records to winning races outright, female ultrarunners are proving that endurance comes in many forms. As participation continues to rise, we take a look at why more women are stepping onto ultra start lines and how they're changing the face of the sport.

Man and woman kissing at finish

Why It’s Time to Stop Gatekeeping 100-Milers (and Make Your First 100 Miler Possible)

The 100-mile ultra has long been viewed as the holy grail of endurance running. But also one of its most exclusive clubs. Qualifying races, strict cut-offs and intimidating entry requirements have left many runners wondering if the distance is beyond their reach. The reality, however, might surprise you.

People running along beach with mountain in background

The Ultimate Island Adventure: Highlights and how to plan your logistics for the Ultra Tour of Arran

The Rat Race Ultra Tour of Arran (UTA) is a two-day, fully supported stage ultra that showcases Scotland at its most raw and beautiful. Set on the island often called “Scotland in miniature,” it takes runners from sweeping glens and forest trails to rugged mountain ridgelines and dramatic coastal paths, with a summit of Goatfell on day two providing a true highlight. Tough, varied and unforgettable, this is an ultra that delivers big adventure without ever leaving you far from Rat Race support, and a perfect way to kick off the UK trail season in one of the most spectacular running playgrounds in the country.

Woman stood on grass with bike

Following the Trans Africa Journey

A live diary from our CEO Jim Mee as he takes on the Rat Race Trans Africa Coast to Coast event, a 3,200km ride across four African countries from the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean.

Bamburgh Castle

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO RUN YOUR FIRST 100 MILER

Having completed the first-ever Castle to Castle 100 Test Pilot, Rat Race Senior Project Manager James Campbell knows exactly what it feels like to tackle 100 miles for the first time. Here, he shares the highs, lows and lessons learned from one of the biggest running challenges of his life

Road running through mountains

What is it like to cycle coast to coast of South America?

What does it feel like to cycle from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean in just nine days? The Rat Race Trans Andean Coast to Coast is a bucket-list cycling adventure that takes riders across South America, over the mighty Andes and through some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Hear from the riders who took on this epic challenge and discover what it's really like to cross a continent on two wheels.

Rocky cliff surrounded by bright, clear water

How do we plan our adventures?

One of the questions we're asked most often is how Rat Race creates its unique adventures. Every event starts with a blank map, an open mind and a destination full of potential. When we first visited Madeira, we set out to explore the island and uncover something completely new. This is the story of how a recce trip packed with local knowledge, dramatic landscapes and big ideas became one of our most exciting adventures yet.

Participants walking along frozen lake with colourful sky above

What kit do you need on the Mongol 100?

Taking on a 100-mile adventure is one thing, but doing it in sub-zero temperatures is a completely different challenge. On the Mongol 100, it’s not just about distance, but about managing the cold, the conditions, and the unexpected realities of life in a true winter environment. From frozen water bottles and ice-block gels to figuring out how to stay clean, warm and comfortable when everything wants to freeze solid, preparation becomes just as important as endurance.

Woman stood on grass with bike

A sneak peek into Trans Africa Coast to Coast our biggest cycling challenge yet

Are you looking to take on an unforgettable cycling expedition? Trans Africa Coast to Coast takes riders 3,000km across 4 countries from Namibia to South Africa. With a diverse mix of gravel, road, mountains, desert and safari landscapes, full support throughout, and carefully planned stages over 26 days, this is an epic coast-to-coast journey designed to push boundaries and deliver a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

People waiting at start line

Why Rat Race’s The Wall Is the Perfect First Ultramarathon for Solo Runners

Thinking about signing up for your first ultramarathon but don't have anyone to do it with? You're not alone. Every year, hundreds of runners and walkers take on The Wall as solo entrants, drawn by its iconic route, supportive atmosphere and beginner-friendly format. If the idea of tackling 70 miles sounds daunting, The Wall offers the perfect balance of challenge and support, giving you everything you need to take on your first ultra with confidence. Here's why it's one of the best ultramarathons in the UK for first-timers doing it alone.

Woman using trekking poles and climbing over rocks and grass

Should you use poles on your next ultramarathon?

When it comes to ultramarathon kit, few items divide opinion quite like trekking poles. For some, they're an essential bit of kit that wouldn't leave the start line without. For others, they're just extra weight and something else to carry. Whether you're heading for the mountains, taking on a long-distance road ultra or simply wondering if poles could help you go further and feel stronger, here's what you need to know before adding them to your kit list.

Woman running through finish arch

How does it feel to finish The Wall Ultramarathon?

What does it really feel like to take on The Wall? To spend hour after hour crossing the country on foot, chasing pit stops, battling tired legs and counting down the miles to that finish line in Gateshead? We asked our #RatRacer community to share their journey from Carlisle to the Tyne, including the highs, the lows, the people they met and what kept them moving when things got tough.

Start arch and lots of people running infront of castle

Top tips for your first ultramarathon

Preparing for an ultramarathon can feel overwhelming, but the best advice often comes from those who've already done it. We asked our #RatRacer community for their top tips on running The Wall, and many of their lessons apply to any ultramarathon. From pacing and nutrition to mindset and strategy, here are the tips they wish they'd known before taking on their first adventure beyond 26.2 miles.

People running past of castle

Top 10 reasons why The Wall is the perfect first ultramarathon

Looking for your first ultramarathon? The Wall is perfect for beginner. With a generous 3mph completion pace, a finisher rate of over 90%, full support throughout and a completely waymarked route, this iconic 70-mile challenge is designed to help everyday adventurers achieve something extraordinary.

Man celebrating at finish

What kit to choose for your next ultramarathon

Choosing the right ultramarathon kit can make all the difference on event day. From running packs and hydration systems to footwear, clothing and essential gear, explore our tried-and-tested recommendations to help you stay comfortable, perform at your best and reach the finish line with confidence.