Competing in an ultramarathon - at 76!

Earlier this year, ultrarunner and bootcamp organiser Harry Hunter became, at 76, the oldest Briton to complete the Marathon des Sables.

This notoriously taxing, seven-day event sees participants cover a total distance of 250 kilometres. The race takes place in the middle of the Sahara Desert and is often run in 50C heat, featuring different stages with the longest stretch coming to around 85km.

Competitors carry everything on their backs, except for tents and water supplies, which are dealt with by the organisers. It is a race that demands extreme mental toughness.

Formerly serving in the British Army, Hunter first got into running 40 years ago, and has since completed 60-70 marathons, including 16 London Marathons, as well as a number of ultramarathons around the world, from Cappadocia in Turkey to the Kalahari Desert in South Africa.

Hunter eventually convinced himself to race the Marathon des Sables in a bid to beat the age record. His training regime took nine months, building up the weight he was carrying, and preparing for extreme heat in extra clothing and prolonged sauna routines.

Finishing 508th out of more than 800 runners, Hunter not only broke the age record, but he also raised more than £5,700 for Berkshire’s Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

If you are an older runner, are inspired by Harry Hunter’s heroics and are looking for ultra running tips, contact ultramarathon coach Maximum Mileage Coaching today to discuss the best ultra training tips for you.