The Algarve will host “the biggest and toughest marathon in the world” later this month as Altura, in Castro Marim, becomes the European stage of The Great World Race – a brutal event that sees runners complete seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days.
The race will pass through Avenida 24 de Junho on November 19, from 8am to 3pm, bringing dozens of elite and amateur athletes from around the globe to the Algarve’s coastline.
Around 70 runners of different ages and nationalities will tackle the gruelling challenge that starts in Antarctica (Wolf’s Fang) before moving through Oceania (Perth) and Asia (Abu Dhabi), reaching Altura as the European leg.
It will be the first time Portugal ever hosts part of the event, considered one of the hardest endurance tests on the planet. Each marathon covers 42 kilometres under wildly different climates and terrains, demanding near-perfect stamina.
After Altura, the runners will continue to South America (Cartagena) and North America (Miami), where the challenge concludes. Between races, competitors rest on board a specially equipped aircraft that serves as a flying hotel, offering a few precious hours of recovery before the next start line.
Participation doesn’t come cheap – the entry fee is around $50,000 (over €43,000).
The Altura leg is organised by Ice Cap Adventures, in partnership with the municipal council of Castro Marim.
