Rwanda is set to host its first-ever multi-stage ultramarathon, Ultra X Rwanda, on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th January 2025.
The event will take place in the districts of Burera and Musanze in the Northern Province and is expected to attract over 100 international participants from the United States, Australia, and Europe.
The race offers two formats: a 2-day, 110km route or a 50km race on Sunday. Participants will run through Rwanda’s iconic landscapes, including the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, the towering Virunga Mountains, and five volcanoes: Mt. Muhabura, Mt. Sabyinyo, Mt. Karisimbi, Mt. Bisoke, and Mt. Gahinga.
Alexander Fetherston-Godley, Race Director at Ultra X, said: “We are thrilled to bring the inaugural Ultra X Rwanda to life. The event will showcase Rwanda’s extraordinary beauty and allow our international competitors to experience its warm culture and welcoming people. Most importantly, we want this event to be celebrated as a Rwandan and African race first and foremost, which is why we’ve worked hard to make it accessible to East African participants.”
Ultra X, with support from the Clarion Welbsy Foundation, is offering a special local entry fee to encourage Rwandan and East African participation. The organization will also provide running kits to local athletes.
The Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema, highlighted the event’s importance: “The Ministry of Sports upholds organizers of the Ultra X Rwanda competition, an event that celebrates athletic excellence and endurance. Taking place in the Northern districts of Burera and Musanze, Ultra X Rwanda provides athletes with a challenging and inspiring course set against Rwanda’s stunning natural backdrop. This event not only promotes long-distance running but also fosters a spirit of determination, resilience, and sportsmanship among participants. We encourage athletes from all over the world to test their limits and experience the power of sport in Rwanda.”
UK High Commissioner to Rwanda, Alison Thorpe, added: “This ultramarathon will be an incredible test of athleticism and endurance in some of Rwanda’s most beautiful locations. I wish the runners the best of luck as they race through the land of 1000 hills! At the British High Commission, we believe sports are fundamental to promoting good health and that they can be a brilliant driver of economic growth. It is fantastic to see British Companies like Ultra X work in Rwanda, and that is why I will be working with the Rwandan Ministry of Sports and Partners to promote this event and others like it.”
The event is organized in partnership with Tugende, which will assist with operational and promotional aspects, engaging both local and expatriate runners.
Ultra X is a global ultramarathon series with events in destinations like Sri Lanka, Mexico, and Croatia. Ultra X Rwanda joins this portfolio, providing participants with an unforgettable trail-running experience.
Organiz3 have also pointed that interested runners can access registration via the Ultra X Rwanda.
