World ’ s Toughest Flat Route Ultra
The Salt Pans Ultra routes are entirely on and around the awe-inspiring Makgadikgadi Salt Pans , the second largest salt pans in the world , which are the bed of an ancient mega inland sea from which some scientists believe early mankind started the first migrations north . Offering 100km and 50km distances , you gain very little in elevation , but you will certainly be pushed to your mental and physical limits , as there are few points of reference , no route markings , extreme temperatures , and plenty of time alone to chat to your spiritual ancestors in the incredible solitude . Also , you may run a few kilometres more , as one struggles to run in a straight line on the Pans …
Both races start on the southern edge of Sua Pan , the eastern pan of the huge Makgadikgadi Salt Pans , leaving behind an escarpment that marks the old southern shoreline of the pan . Starting at 2am , the first 30km of the SPU100 are cool , fast , flat and run in the dark , but with a full moon to help you see . Ironically , the moon ’ s light will actually make the Pans seem like the Moon ! The fourth checkpoint is on top of Khukonje Island at 60km , but be warned … you will see Khukonje long before you reach it , as it is 15 metres higher than most of the Pans , and the island is home to an old baobab tree that is over 1500 years old .
If this sounds like your idea of running fun , check out www . saltpansultra . com .
Fuelling the engine during the early kays
Carla ’ s spirits were high as the sun came up
Strong winds made the going much tougher than normal
By 60km , Carla was feverish and too dehydrated to continue
Just running in a straight line is a challenge on the Salt Pans
Images : Gareth Roberts / Salt Pans Ultra
About the Author
While Carla ’ s ‘ day job ’ is Head Tennis Coach and Director of Tennis at Game Set Match Tennis in Johannesburg , her second love is trail running , which she tackles with an unquenchable thirst for adventure , a never-say-die attitude , and a healthy sense of humour about all the misadventures that befall her on the trails !
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