What?
Described as the world's best and toughest winter (ultra)marathon, the Yukon Arctic Ultra is a race for a very few athletes: if the marathon distance is a serious challenge, the 100, 300 and 430 miles ones are for brave and experienced ultrarunners only.
Where?
In Yukon: the race starts in Whitehorse and follows the Yukon Quest trail, the trail of the world's toughest Sled Dog Race. The marathon finishes just off the Takhini river.
When?
February 6th is the big day in 2011, but one day is of course not enough to complete the race (but the marathon). The event officially closes on February 19th in Dawson City.
Why?
Extreme cold weather (down to -50°C) and arctic conditions are not for everyone: only experienced winter athletes are accepted for the 100, 300 and 430 mile race, so don't dream about far away checkpoints and Dawson City. But you can still spend an unforgettable time in the wilderness, joining the classic marathon distance - one of the few race in world with a only dozen runners - or helping as a volunteer.
How (much)?
From €100 (marathon) to €1950 (430 miles), the registration fees are on the cheap for such a remote race and the small number of runners involved. Fly to Vancouver first and then you can travel from British Columbia to Yukon by sea, by air or by bus. Daily flights and coaches run from Vancouver to Whitehorse, but the ferry (a journey through the Inside Passage) offers the best views. A few hotels, including the High Country Inn, are available in Whitehorse. For more information about the Yukon Territory, visit www.touryukon.com
Contact
Yukon Arctic Ultra
c/o the Great Outdoors OUTDOORS
Robert Pollhammer
Ludwigstr. 9
82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Germany
tel +4988219436061
www.arcticultra.de
