Results: 2026
Tommy Chen won the 2026 Mountain Ultra in 37 hours 13 minutes and Sue Paz-Bylund won the women's race in 42 hours 34 minutes.
| Category | Name | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Men | Tommy Chen (Taiwan) | 37hrs 13mins |
| Women | Sue Paz-Bylund (Sweden) | 42hrs 34mins |
The organizer publishes cumulative times to the minute and did not list finisher or starter counts.
Source: Beyond the Ultimate — Mountain Ultra 2026 results. Checked September 14, 2026.
Next edition: July 26, 2027. The organizer lists the next edition as starting July 26, 2027.
Event Overview
| Date | Jul 27-31, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Location | Tian Shan Mountains, Kyrgyzstan |
| Format | Stage Race |
| Terrain | Mountain |
| Region | Asia |
| Distance / duration | 200 km |
| Elevation gain | 10,500 m total ascent |
| Cutoff | 5 stages in 5 days within a 9-day event itinerary. |
| Field size | Limited field; check the official entry page for current capacity. |
| Highlights | Global Race Series, Self-Sufficient |
Course & Terrain
Self-sufficient five-stage mountain ultra in the Tian Shan Mountains.
Key course features to know before comparing this race:
- Tian Shan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan
- Peak altitude of 3,907 m
- Karakol Valley base camp
- Optional acclimatisation trek before race start
The organizer describes a technical mountain race requiring resilience at altitude, difficult terrain movement, and GPX/navigation awareness.
Official race details list temperatures around 30 C / 5 C and 13 daylight hours.
Format & Support (as run)
| Qualification | Automatic qualification is available through long-course Global Race Series finishes or full-distance Montane Spine Race; otherwise entrants are vetted for relevant mountain and stage-race experience. |
|---|---|
| Support model | GPS tracking, manned checkpoints, medical support, camps, drinking water, hot water, race accommodation, transfers, and post-race hotel are included. |
Why This Race Matters
Beyond the Ultimate Mountain Ultra is a useful reference point for runners comparing stage race events. Its format, terrain, and support model shape the kind of preparation required: not just fitness, but pacing discipline, nutrition planning, foot care, and the ability to make good decisions under fatigue.
Preparing for a Race Like Beyond the Ultimate Mountain Ultra
The stage race guide covers the format as a whole. These guides go deeper:
- Stage race packing list: Mandatory kit, daily carry, camp bags, food and foot care.
- Walking strategy for ultramarathons: When and how to walk by terrain, effort and cutoffs.
- Hydration and sodium for ultramarathons: Fluid, sodium, thirst, sweat rate and hyponatremia risk.
- Blister prevention: Socks, taping, lubrication, shoe fit and hot spots.
Best Fit
- Experienced mountain and stage-race athletes
- Runners comfortable carrying mandatory kit at altitude
- Global Race Series finishers seeking the mountain edition
Planning Notes
- Study the mandatory gear list early and rehearse carrying the exact pack weight you expect to use on race day.
- Train for terrain-specific fatigue. Technical trails and mountain courses demand downhill durability, hiking efficiency, and reliable night lighting.
- The directory does not mark this as having simpler logistics. Confirm qualification, terrain, support, registration, medical, and withdrawal requirements before planning around it.
Event FAQs
How much climbing does Beyond the Ultimate Mountain Ultra have?
The official page lists 10,500 m of total ascent over 200 km.
Is Mountain Ultra self-sufficient?
Yes. Runners carry mandatory kit, clothing, medical supplies, food, and sleeping kit, while the organizer provides water, checkpoints, camps, and support.
Related Preparation
- Compare this race in the full 2026 calendar
- Browse the multiday stage-race calendar
- Open the Stage Race format guide
- Compare all race formats
- Use the timed-race pace calculator
- Plan checkpoint arrivals and cutoff buffers
- Build a crew and drop-bag plan
- Build a race-specific gear checklist
Verification & Sources
Verification scope: the listed edition's date, location, format, and available logistics were checked against the event-specific official sources below during the directory review dated June 2026. Organizers can revise details after review.
- Official Mountain Ultra page — https://www.beyondtheultimate.co.uk/race/mountain-ultra/
- Multiday Running event directory review scope: June 2026.