Test your limits with the Golden Ultra stage race
If you're thinking about an ultra, a stage race is the perfect place to start
Photo by:
Laura Szato
Considering training for an ultra-distance race in 2024, but not quite sure how to get your feet wet? A stage race, such as the Golden Ultra in Golden, B.C., may be the perfect way to safely dive in. Spread out over a number of days, stage races usually involve a variety of terrain to push you outside your comfort zone. At some events (like this one) you can also sign up for single events. Next year’s Golden Ultra will be held Sept. 13-15. Here’s why you don’t want to miss out.
Accessible to all runners, from beginner to elite
There’s a distance for everyone. The Golden Ultra features three stages over three days, aptly named Blood, Sweat and Tears. Runners can sign up to tackle all three stages, embarking on either the Half Pint (shorter distances each day) or the Full Pint. The Full Pint involves a 5 km climb, 60 km ultra and 23 km run, while the Half Pint takes runners through a 3 km climb, 30 km run and 13 km run.
If you’re not quite ready to race three days in a row, runners also have the option of signing up for any of the 60 km, 30 km, 23 km or 13 km distances as a solo event. Whether you take on the 13 km distance as a first-timer or are aiming for the podium in the Full Pint, you’ll be equally welcomed, encouraged and celebrated.
The community, the community, the community
If you’re new to trail or ultrarunning, the Golden Ultra is the perfect place to experience the bonds that are formed on dirt paths. If you’ve collected a drawerful of belt buckles, you know all about the ultra community, and you’ll find the one at the Golden Ultra is a level up. The volunteers have as much fun as the athletes and the post-race celebrations are next-level. The best part of ultras? They leave you with tired legs and a happy heart, and the Golden Ultra delivers.
Golden, B.C. Need we say more?
Golden and area boast some of the most gorgeous trails in Canada. New runners and seasoned veterans alike will marvel at the breathtaking mountain vistas and the awe-inspiring forests. Diverse enough to offer both intense climbing and cruisy dirt paths, you’ll be challenged at every level.
For more info or to register for the Golden Ultra, head here.
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