Introduction
The Barkley Marathon is known as one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world. It takes place in Frozen Head State Park in Tennessee and consists of five loops through rugged terrain, totaling approximately 100 miles.
History
The race was started in 1986 by Gary ‘Lazarus Lake’ Cantrell as a tribute to James Earl Ray, a convicted killer who escaped from the nearby Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary. The course was designed to be extremely challenging, with no marked trails and steep elevation changes.
Format
The Barkley consists of five loops, with each loop covering approximately 20 miles. Runners must find their way through the course using only a map and compass, as there are no course markings. They must also navigate through dense vegetation, creek crossings, and steep climbs.
Challenges
- Difficult Terrain: The course includes nearly 60,000 feet of cumulative elevation change, making it extremely challenging for even the most experienced runners.
- Time Limit: Runners have 60 hours to complete the race, with each loop having its own cutoff time. Many participants are unable to finish within the time limit.
- Variable Weather: The race takes place in early April, and runners can experience everything from freezing temperatures to blistering heat, adding to the difficulty.
Participants
Only a select group of runners are invited to participate in the Barkley Marathon each year. The secretive application process involves submitting a ‘essay’ on why you should be allowed to run the race. Past participants include elite ultrarunners, military personnel, and adventure seekers looking for a challenge.
Success Rate
Since its inception, only a few dozen runners have completed the Barkley Marathon. The completion rate hovers around 1-2% each year, making it one of the most difficult races to finish.
Conclusion
The Barkley Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a test of endurance, navigation skills, and mental toughness. Participants who toe the line at Frozen Head State Park know they are in for a grueling challenge unlike any other.
