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Africa’s Toughest Footrace?

August 22, 2025

Ultra X launches in South Africa

August 22, 2025 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/Ultra X is proud to announce the launch of its most ambitious and demanding race to date: Ultra X South Africa, a 330km, six-stage ultra marathon set deep in the breathtaking wilderness of the Cederberg Conservancy, Western Cape.

The event will take place between the 19th and 24th October 2026.

Spanning rugged sandstone cliffs, remote mountain passes, and vast fynbos landscapes, Ultra X South Africa promises to redefine multi-stage racing. Limited to just 70 competitors, this event will see athletes from across the globe test their limits in an environment that is as unforgiving as it is spectacular.

“Ultra X South Africa is the ultimate expression of what we stand for – adventure, resilience, and the beauty of endurance,” said Sam Heward, Co-Founder of Ultra X. “This race will be wild, raw, and utterly unforgettable. We believe it will quickly establish itself as one of the world’s most iconic ultra marathons.”

Race Itinerary: 6-Stage Ultra Marathon

  • Saturday: Arrival in Cape Town (optional race hotel accommodation)
  • Sunday: Welcome briefing, kit checks, and transfer to Camp 1
  • Monday (Stage 1): 50km
  • Tuesday (Stage 2): 55km – new camp
  • Wednesday (Stage 3): 60km – new camp
  • Thursday (Stage 4): 80km – new camp
  • Friday (Stage 5): 55km – new camp
  • Saturday (Stage 6): 30km – final stage
  • Sunday: Return transfer to Cape Town

Competitors will spend each night under canvas in the African wilderness, forging bonds and memories in one of the most remote race environments on earth.

Why South Africa?

South Africa has long been a global hub for endurance sports, boasting legendary races such as the Comrades Ultra Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon. Ultra X South Africa builds on this heritage, offering an unrivalled multi-day stage race designed to challenge even the most experienced ultra runners.

With direct flights into Cape Town from across Europe and minimal time difference for UK and European athletes, the race offers both accessibility and adventure in equal measure.

Who Should Enter?

Ultra X South Africa is designed for:

  • Experienced ultra runners looking for their next big challenge beyond Jordan, Nevada, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Wales, or Mexico.
  • Adventurers seeking the experience of a lifetime in one of the world’s most dramatic natural landscapes.

While this race will test the very toughest of individuals, Ultra X believes that with the right preparation, anyone can complete it.

Join the Ultimate Trail Running Challenge

With just 70 places available, Ultra X South Africa offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run through the Cederberg Conservancy and stake your claim in a race destined to become legend.

For more information and to register your interest, visit: https://ultra-x.co/southafrica/

About Ultra X

Ultra X organise a series of multi-stage ultra marathons in some of the most exotic and exciting places on the planet. Their mission is to put on life-changing, transformative experiences and provide best in class support to participants to allow anyone to take on one of their events. Ultra X believe that the experience of a multi-stage race is one of the best experiences that anyone can have and their aim is to get more people participating.

“These events will totally change life as you know it. From the people you meet, to the miles you cover, there’s something about the days in the Ultra X bubble that make you feel more alive than ever, even when you’re at your most exhausted.”

James Cooke, Ultra X Competitor

Find out more about Ultra X’s events: https://ultra-x.co/races/

Sam@ultra-x.co
07585707521