Race Summary – RacingThePlanet UltraLite (Greece)

 

We are delighted to share the summary of the inaugural RacingThePlanet UltraLite (Greece), held alongside RacingThePlanet: Greece in September 2025. The new UltraLite category was a resounding success, offering a flexible and inclusive way to experience the race.

“The UltraLite category was the best thing ever. It allowed me to feel part of the race, share the experience with everyone, and form special bonds with our group.”

Below is an overview of how the UltraLite worked and the feedback from participants.

Who Joined the Race

  • 25 UltraLite competitors (16% of the total field)
  • 60% female, 40% male
  • Youngest competitor: 16 (racing his mother); oldest: 76
  • 16 countries represented, from Thailand to Namibia
  • 44% were first-time RacingThePlanet ultramarathoners; 56% had completed a full-distance race before, including four 4 Deserts Club members

The Results

  • 100% completed more than 50km and earned a medal
  • Maximum possible distance: 107.4km
    • 42% completed this full distance
    • Shortest distance completed: 57.7km
    • One competitor chose to skip a Stage
  • Fastest pace: 20km in 2 hours (10km/hour)
  • Slowest pace: 20km in 6 hours (3km/hour)

Why They Chose UltraLite

Participants joined for a variety of reasons:

  • To share the race with a friend or family member doing the full distance
  • To test themselves before committing to the full ultramarathon
  • To participate while recovering from injury or reduced training
  • To enjoy the course and culture without the demands of the full distance

Highlights

  • Experiencing the beauty of Greece in a unique way
  • Gaining a feel for the format and challenge of the full race
  • Sharing the adventure with friends or family of different fitness levels
  • Remaining part of the larger event despite setbacks or injuries
  • Support and encouragement from full-distance competitors passing by
  • Completing Stages without exhaustion and without carrying a full pack

Summary of the Format

  • Distances: 10km or 20km per Stage, plus the full final Stage
  • Semi-Supported: One Camp bag (up to 60L) transported; average carried pack weight was 5kg
  • Transportation: Dedicated minibuses for checkpoint transfers and bag transport
  • Camps: Shared Camps with 250km competitors, with UltraLite-dedicated tents
  • Briefings: Included in main race briefings, plus UltraLite-specific evening and pre-race sessions

A Typical Day

  • 7:00pm: UltraLite briefing to confirm next day’s plan (10km or 20km)
  • 7:30am: Main briefing with all competitors
  • 8:00am: Watch and cheer the 250km race start
  • 9:00am: Depart Camp by minibus to checkpoints
  • 10:00–11:00am: Begin UltraLite section after 250km competitors pass through
  • 1:00–6:00pm: Finish sections and arrive at camp
  • Optional excursions before / after Stages to visit local highlights

Feedback from Participants

  • “It provided a great opportunity for family and friends to participate at a level appropriate for them while gaining perspective on the ultramarathon experience. I’m happy UltraLite will continue.” – Family member of a full-distance competitor
  • “It is most gratifying to finally earn a medal in such an awesome place like Greece!” – Returning competitor
  • “We truly loved it and enjoyed every moment.” – a volunteer
  • “I loved the race! I am now thinking about Gobi, full distance or UltraLite.” – First-time competitor
  • “I absolutely loved doing the UltraLite and seeing so many friends from past races.” – 4 Deserts Club member
  • “The UltraLite category blended in nicely. It was great to share the experience without interfering with the full race.” – 250km competitor

In Summary

The UltraLite category brought new energy and inclusivity to RacingThePlanet: Greece. It allowed participants of all backgrounds to experience the adventure, culture, and camaraderie of RacingThePlanet while offering a flexible, semi-supported format.

We look forward to welcoming more UltraLite competitors at future RacingThePlanet events.