CHALLENGERS WANTED
Are you looking to take on your first ultra in 2025?
In 2024, we followed the journeys of six (extra)ordinary women as they prepared for an ultramarathon.
Our Ultra 50:50 Challengers came from a range of different backgrounds and experience levels, from a first-time ultrarunner celebrating the five-year all clear from cancer to a new mum making a triumphant return to the trails.
We’re now looking for women who have never completed an ultramarathon to be our 2025 Ultra 50:50 Challengers, taking on their first ultra with us by tackling either 50km or 100km at Race to the King in June.
Sound like a Challenge?
Well, that’s kind of the point! Research we conducted in 2023 identified Representation & Perception as one of the major barriers for women looking to get into ultrarunning.
Our hope is that by showcasing true stories of inspiring individuals taking on their first ultra, we can encourage more women to take on the challenge and experience the life-changing magic of ultras.
Our mission is to attract 500 first-time female ultrarunners to our events in 2025. Our Challengers will play a key part in leading the charge.
What’s in it for you?
Our events are inclusive, with extended cut-offs and generous support – so you’ll be supported every step of the way, including before you even making it to the start line!
Our 2025 Challengers will receive:
- Free entry for you and a training partner
- Comprehensive training plans and dedicated coaching calls
- Kit and clothing from our incredible event partners
Apply or Nominate a Friend Today
If you’re interested in becoming a 2025 Ultra 50:50 Challenger or nominating a friend, please apply now. Applications will close at midnight on October 25th.
FAQs
Who can apply?
Applications and nominations are open for any female or non-binary first-time ultrarunners. If you have completed an ultramarathon before, you will not be eligible.
What is required of our Ultra 50:50 Challengers?
Ultra 50:50 Challengers will be required to take part in Race to the King 2025, taking on either 50km or 100km. They must therefore be available on 21st June.
In the build-up to Race to the King, Challengers may be asked to take part in additional events like pop-up runs, and may be photographed and interviewed on camera as part of the initiative.
What will Challengers receive?
In return for committing to the challenge of taking on their first ultra, Challengers will receive:
- A complimentary place, plus a second free-of-charge place for a training partner
- Invites to additional pop-up events
- Invites to a series of virtual coaching sessions with a range of experts regarding training, mindset and nutrition
- A kit bundle from our Official Apparel partner Pressio
- A Runna subscription courtesy of our Official Training Partner
- A complimentary 3D Sport Analysis from Profeet
- Additional goodies from our nutrition partners, High5 and Perkier
When will Challengers find out if they are successful?
Applications will close at midnight on October 25th. Successful applicants and nominees will be invited to accept their place by November 1st.
What is Ultra 50:50?
Our Ultra 50:50 initiative seeks to set new industry standards to inspire, empower and enable women to take part in ultramarathon events.
What are the 500 Trailblazers?
Our experience of working with female runners has highlighted that taking that leap from shorter distance events such as Parkun, 10k or half marathon events to ultra events (more than 50km) is one of the most challenging psychological barriers.
Therefore in 2025 our goal is to attract 500+ first-time female ultra-runners to
our Trail Series events. Our Challengers will play a vital role in helping bring to life.
