[Editor’s Note: This article was written by guest contributor, Simon Hollis, the race director for the Capital to Country Multi-Day Ultra.]
Within the midst of his ascent of a mountainside in Nepal, Dharmesh Mistry (U.Okay.) paused to soak up the breathtaking panorama stretching out earlier than him. The attractive hills, the meandering river under, and the distant snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas created a scene of unparalleled magnificence. This was no extraordinary run or race; this was the 2023 Capital to Nation Multi-Day Extremely.
One in all many shrines of Nepal. All images: Adrian Howes Images
Happening over 5 days, beginning on November 24 and operating to December 1, 2023, this self-sufficient 123-mile race traversed the gorgeous landscapes of Nepal, from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to distant villages nestled amidst rugged terrain. For Mistry, a seasoned ultrarunner who has accomplished challenges just like the Marathon des Sables in Morocco, this race was a dream come true — a fusion of the grueling climbs of UTMB and the desert endurance of the Marathon des Sables. Mistry launched into this journey hoping to relish each second of the distinctive expertise.
Mistry was joined by fellow competitor Tarne Westcott (U.Okay.), who had beforehand tried UTMB. Westcott discovered the relaxed environment of the Capital to Nation race a refreshing change, permitting him to immerse himself totally within the journey with out the stress of competitors. But, the aggressive spirit inevitably emerged, and Westcott discovered himself inadvertently racing in opposition to fellow ultramarathoners amidst the rugged Nepalese terrain. Connecting historic temples to breathtaking viewpoints, every stage of the race had difficult steep climbs and technical trails that exposed the wonder and variety of Nepal.
The beginning of the race, leaving Kathmandu, Nepal.
For Helen Ramwell (U.Okay.), the race held a deeper significance, offering solace and closure following the lack of her father. Working by means of the mountains of Nepal grew to become a non secular journey, and she or he felt him together with her for the journey. The race was a technique to bid farewell whereas embracing the uncooked great thing about the panorama.
In distinction, Emily Moore (Australia), an Ironman triathlete, approached the race with a distinct perspective, exploring Nepalese tradition and connecting with the locals. Her expertise powerhiking by means of Nepal’s villages and temples grew to become a testomony to the heat and hospitality of the world’s individuals. Throughout her race, she loved a marriage and a visit to a college! In her opinion, it was price including an additional 10 minutes to a stage with a purpose to work together with individuals within the villages.
Emily Moore (left) powerhiking the gorgeous route.
Because the race concluded, amidst cheers from locals and within the towering presence of the Himalayas, every participant carried with them reminiscences of an unforgettable journey — a journey that transcended mere competitors and provided a profound connection to nature, tradition, and the human spirit.
Because the Capital to Nation Multi-Day Extremely prepares to return to Nepal in 2024 for one more version beginning November 25, the attract of this distinctive journey beckons as soon as extra. For these looking for to problem their limits amidst the splendor of the Himalayas, this is a chance to not be missed.
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- When racing in distinctive locations, do you focus extra on the race or take the time to benefit from the tradition?
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One of many residents of Kathmandu’s famed monkey temple.
Runners exploring Kathmandu earlier than the beginning of the race.
Native kids who got here out to help the race.
A spectacular view of the Himalayas alongside the route of the Capital to Nation Multi-Day Extremely.
