Ultra Running

Official website: International Association of Ultrarunners

How it works

Ultra races can be categorised into two main types: those contested over a specific distance and those contested over a specific time period. For example, races such as 50km and 100km fall into the former category, while events like 6hr, 24hr, and multi-day races belong to the latter. Both types of races are becoming increasingly popular and present their own distinct challenges to the participants.

These races take place in various settings, including on trails, tracks and roads. Trail races allow athletes to immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings of a forest, while track races keep athletes within a visible area near their start/finish lines. Road races provide the opportunity for athletes to run through both quiet and busy streets, reminiscing about their road running days.

Some ultra races combine multiple types of terrain, and others span several stages over the course of multiple days.

The International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) is the worldwide governing body for ultramarathon running events. It was established in 1984 and is affiliated with World Athletics. The IAU aims to promote and develop ultrarunning as a sport, as well as to organise and regulate international ultramarathon competitions.

The major IAU competitions are:
• 100km World Championships
• 100km Area Championships
• 24H World Championships
• 24H Area Championships
• 50km World Championships
• 50km Area Championships
• World Mountain and Trail Running Championships (partner with the World Mountain Running Association and the International Trail Running Association)

History

The IAU was founded in 1984 to provide a platform for ultrarunners from around the world to compete at an international level. Over the years, the association has worked to standardise ultramarathon race rules and regulations, as well as to foster the growth and recognition of ultrarunning as a legitimate and respected athletic discipline.

Did you know

The IAU has several distinguished Honorary Members, including individuals such as Malcolm Campbell (GBR), the first IAU President, who have made significant contributions to the development and recognition of ultrarunning on a global scale. The IAU holds global championships at the 50km and 100km distances and over 24 hours on a biennial basis, as well as holding continental championships at these distances (Americas, Asia and Oceania, Europe and Africa). The IAU also recognises outstanding contributions and achievements in ultrarunning through career awards and presents the Athlete of the Year award to standout ultrarunners who have demonstrated exceptional skill and achievement in the field of ultrarunning. Additionally, the IAU maintains records for various ultramarathon distances and consists of several committees that oversee various aspects of ultrarunning, ensuring fair competition and athlete welfare.

Gold standard

Athletes can go beyond the marathon and run in major competitions, representing one of the IAU’s member federations.