I’d heard of this adventure about 2 years prior and thought it was achievable—with the distances, the type of terrain, the climate, and the altitude.
So, with a bit of trepidation… I registered!!

The race didn’t disappoint…!!
We arrived in Ulaanbaatar mid-July ’25, into this barren, vast new country, with a few nerves jangling but also excitement and apprehension.

After meeting the rest of the runners (a small field of 20 from 12 countries) and comparing different events we’d all experienced, I felt quite optimistic about getting to the finish line.

This was a 6-stage event, with distances increasing each day.
A big drive day took us to the edge of the Gobi Desert, and then the reality hit…!!
We were here.
The planning had been done.
The training runs were completed…
Now it was race week.

On the start line in the Gobi was a mixture of nervous tension, adrenaline, various languages and accents—and we were off.
On top of the first sand dune was a ‘pinch me’ moment, but luckily the clouds were keeping us cool.

As the week progressed:

• The distances increased

• The hills got steeper

• The views got more stunning

• The legs ached more

• The dehydration kicked in…!!

Most of the runners completed the test of endurance on 29th July 2025 with a sense of achievement and pride.
The camaraderie was palpable and new friendships were made.

It shows that whatever the challenge, with perseverance, determination, and positivity, many things can be achieved.
The hardest part is getting started…!!
Find your goal and go for it.

Anything is possible.