Sam briefing runners on the start-line ahead of a 2022 Ultra X race
In this interview series, Ahotu will be speaking with the people behind some of the most unique races across the globe. We’ll be discussing the history of the event, challenges and how to overcome them, attracting sponsors, reaching new runners and more!
Thanks for joining us Sam. We’re delighted to be supporting Ultra X with your 2023 events, which includes an amazing two-day Ultra Marathon in the Azores. Could you introduce yourself, the race and Ultra X as an organiser for those who aren’t familiar?
Sure, my name’s Sam Heward and I’m one of the Co-Founders of Ultra X. I’m a runner and an adventurer and having stumbled into the world of multi-stage ultra-running at the age of 22 I’ve been on a mission to get more people into the space and make it more accessible. I’m pretty bullish that there’s no better experience than a multi-stage race in a remote part of the world and I just want to inspire more people to give it a try.
Ultra X is an organiser of trail-running events all over the world. Our goal is to become the world’s greatest provider of multi-stage running races and take people on life-transforming adventures. We started out from a single event in Jordan but now offer races in Tanzania, Mexico, Sri Lanka, Slovenia, and all over the UK.
Ultra X Azores was the first 2 stage event we created which means that people can compete in a multi-stage without having to take any holiday. Ultra X is all about taking people to bucket list locations and the Azores is just that – think Jurassic Park! It’s 110km over two days with camping in between. Runners can either join for the full thing or run the Sunday only stage (50km).
How long have you been organising races and what got you started?
We started Ultra X back in 2018 formally but previously ran an event called the Wadi Rum Ultra (now Ultra X Jordan). Jamie (the other Co-Founder) and I are lovers of the space and wanted to create an aspirational brand and series which would encourage more to take on the challenge of an ultra, plus it was more fun than the day job!
What led to Ultra X hosting a race in the Azores?
Every Ultra X event has to tick a number of boxes – bucket list location, stunning trails, physical challenge, and importantly accessibility. The Azores hits all of them.
Ultra-X Azores participants prepare to tackle the mountains of São Miguel Island
What challenges do the location and course present for you as organisers?
Each event is unique for us and because of the remote nature of our races there are always challenges. The Azores has excellent infrastructure and 4G phone signal which certainly makes life easier than some of our locations but it is also prone to occasional extreme weather, flash storms, and high winds. In 2021 there were heavy landslides on our course which meant last-minute reroutes and some of our team being on the course with chainsaws and spades about 3 hours in front of the front runners!
Ultra X Azores offer participants 360 views of this beautiful volcanic island
How many runners typically take part and where do they come from?
It’s a relatively new event and so is growing every year. In 2023 we expect about 250 competitors from 20 or so different countries, the vast majority (70%) are UK based.
What can participants expect from Ultra X Azores?
Runners can expect some of the best trails they will have experienced anywhere and huge variance in terrain and vegetation, a serious challenge (the course has a lot of ups and downs!), and some spectacular around island views. There can’t be many places in the world where you can run around the rim of an extinct volcano whilst being able to see the entire edge of the island.
Do you have any advice or tips for runners taking part?
No one will run the whole of this course! Poles are recommended and hiking in training will be essential to success. If you live on flatlands get in the gym and find a stepper!
What plans do you have for Ultra X over the coming years?
Simply to continue doing what we are doing. We want to grow our portfolio of events in a responsible way to include more exciting destinations and continue to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences and inspire more and more people from all backgrounds into our sport.
When is the next edition taking place and where can our audience find out more information about the event?
20-21 May 2023 and all the info is on the website. Alternatively, if you want to chat or find out more about the event, I am always open to a conversation ([email protected]).
We also post a lot of updates and content on our Instagram @ultraxco! Entries are open on our website and World’s Marathons – https://worldsmarathons.com/marathon/ultra-x-azores-125!
Great to speak Sam! Best of luck to you and the team at Ultra X with your 2023 events across the globe.
Interested in taking part? You can register for the 2023 edition of Ultra X Azores on Ahotu – Ultra X 110 Azores
To feature in our interview series you can drop us an email on [email protected]
Interested in promoting your race with World’s Marathons or Ahotu? Contact us on [email protected]