THE ANTARCTIC ICE MARATHON
Skills and Experience Required
Running a marathon is an arduous task. Running on snow, in sub-zero temperatures is even more
challenging. Participants in the Antarctic Ice Marathon are not required to have previous
marathon experience; however, all applicants must be prepared to train properly and should be
able to walk or run their race distance very comfortably. Experience in the cold is preferred and
will be an asset, but is not essential.
The Ice Marathon is the only official marathon run on mainland Antarctica and is a member of
the Association of International Marathons & Distance Races (AIMS). It takes place at 80 South,
just a few hundred miles from the South Pole in the interior of Antarctica. This is the
southernmost marathon on Earth and a unique opportunity to complete a marathon that is truly
worthy of the seventh continent. For those who fancy a shorter distance, a half marathon of 13.1
miles (21km) presents a considerable challenge over the same hushed, indomitable terrain. For
the toughest endurance athletes, the Antarctic 62.1 miles (100km) Ultra Race completes the
amazing line-up of running events.
Runners will race a groomed and marked course with snowmobile support, aid stations and
medical personnel at hand for the duration of each race.
Antarctic Ice Marathon fee
The fee is €10,500, which can be paid in three installments of €3,500. The first installment
secures your place in the race field. Place are limited in accordance with aircraft capacity
constraints. A discount of €300 is given to those who pay in full upon registration.
The Antarctic Ice Marathon fee includes:









Transfers to and from Punta Arenas airport, Chile for Antarctic flight
Briefing with refreshments in Punta Arenas one day prior to departure
Round trip flights from Punta Arenas to Antarctica
Meals and accommodation while in Antarctica
Use of recreational equipment at Union Glacier Camp
A Baggage allowance of up to 55lbs (25kg) on Punta Arenas-Union Glacier flight
Option to run in the events of your choice
Medal, t-shirts, patches, certificate and other souvenirs of the race
Professional photos for personal use (and local publication)
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.

A short film of the event for download
The Antarctic Ice Marathon fee does NOT include:








Commercial flights to and from Punta Arenas
Transfers to and from Punta Arenas airport (except for Antarctic flight)
Meals and accommodation in Punta Arenas
Personal equipment and clothing
Expenses incurred in Punta Arenas due to delays
Any excess baggage costs over confirmed baggage allowance
Cost for the use of satellite phone whilst in Antarctica
Insurance coverage – personal, medical, or otherwise
Race Website: www.icemarathon.com
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF TRIP TO ANTARCTICA
Day 1 Fly to Antarctica
Fly from Chile to Antarctica by private transport jet. Land on ice runway. Settle in at Union
Glacier Camp.
Day 2 The Ice Marathon
Today we run the Antarctic Ice Marathon. A marked course of 26.2 miles (42 km) will already
have been prepared and snowmobile support, aid stations and medical personnel will be at hand
for the duration of the race. However, don't expect to run your quickest time as winds can blow
from the Pole at a steady 10-25 knots. Also, forget about penguins or crowds cheering you along
the route - no penguins live this far south and you will have to rely upon yourself to push onward
in the hushed, indomitable surroundings.
Day 3 Rest Day
The following day provides an opportunity to rest and recover. You can relax in camp, go for a
walk and recount the previous day’s race.
Day 4 Antarctic 100K and Half Marathon
Next in the race line-up is the Antarctic 100k. This is undoubtedly, “the world’s coldest 100”,
and is reserved for only the toughest of endurance athletes. The 62.1 miles (100km) distance will
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
seem endless, run under a sun that never sets against the backdrop of hills, mountains and large
expanses of ice.
For those who prefer a half-marathon option, the White Continent Half-Marathon will also be
run on the day of the 100km race. This half-marathon is your opportunity to cover 13.1 miles
(21km) on the 'white continent' and finish the southernmost half marathon on the planet.
Day 5 Return to Punta Arenas, Chile
The aircraft from Punta Arenas will arrive with a new collection of avid explorers and you depart
for the final leg of your Antarctic experience. You will arrive at Punta Arenas airport and be
transferred to your hotel.
* Schedule
No two Antarctic experiences are the same. This is part of the excitement and adventure of
Antarctic travel. The itinerary above highlights typical activities and experiences. Exact timeline,
activities, and details will vary from trip to trip. Trip length may vary by departure.
Please anticipate delays and do not plan anything for at least a week after your scheduled return.
Allow yourself to enjoy this unique experience without the stress of pending commitments.
UNION GLACIER CAMP OVERVIEW
The Antarctic Ice Marathon camp is
operated by logistics partner
Adventure Network International. It
is located in the southern Ellsworth
Mountains on the broad expanse of
Union Glacier. The setting is
spectacular and the accommodation
is comfortable. Majestic peaks rise
in all directions and there is little
wind, providing a comfortable
environment to relax and take it all
in.
The atmosphere is relaxed and you’ll
find roomy, double occupancy sleeping tents; a spacious dining hall; and fresh delicious meals.
You’ll be surprised how comfortable Antarctica can be!
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
The camp is 1,883 miles (3030km) from the southern tip of Chile and just over 600 miles
(1000km) from the Geographic South Pole. The precise geographic location is 79°46'S 82°52'W
and the elevation is 2,297ft (700m) above sea level.
Only Accessible by Air
Union Glacier Camp is only accessible by air and the journey involves a 4 ¼ hour flight from
Punta Arenas, Chile. The wheeled IL-76 aircraft lands on a naturally-occurring ice runway on the
Union Glacier, where competitors take their first steps in Antarctica. They will then climb aboard
a specially adapted van for a 5 mile (8km) ride to camp, where a warm welcome awaits them.
The Only Facility of its Kind
Union Glacier is the only facility of its kind
in Antarctica. It is a full-service camp
operating during the Antarctic summer
(November through January). The logistics
company also maintains and operates the
ice runway, a separate skiway and an
efficient logistics hub to provide support to
private expeditions and National Antarctic
Programs.
Much goes on behind the scenes to ensure
the safety and comfort of visitors on the ice.
Communications experts keep regular
contact with the outside world. Heavy equipment mechanics maintain and operate a fleet of
transport and runway maintenance equipment. A meteorologist provides weather information to
flight crews. The general support staff do the thousand-and-one tasks that keep camp in tip-top
shape.
Sleeping Accommodation
Antarctic Ice Marathon competitors
will stay in double-walled sleeping
tents that are roomy and comfortable.
They are well suited to Antarctic
conditions and are based on a design
used by Shackleton’s Endurance
expedition. Each tent houses two
guests and each will sleep in a polar
sleeping bag provided as part of the
race registration costs. The tents are
naturally heated by the 24-hour
sunlight and interior temperatures
range from 25°F – 68°F (4°C 20°C).
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
Dining
The dining tent is the heart of the camp. It has a full
kitchen and dining area and serves as a gathering
place for meals, activities and conversation.
Competitors will enjoy hearty, fresh-cooked meals
while self-serve snacks and beverages are available
at any time. The logistics company also regularly
fly in fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meats and a
variety of beers and Chilean wines from Punta
Arenas, Chile.
Medical
Union Glacier has a small clinic staffed by a doctor and medic. They are available to treat minor
injuries and illness or in case of a medical emergency. A selection of medications and
fundamental equipment for the care and stabilization of patients is also stocked.
Toilets
The camp has men's and women's
toilets housed in centrally-located
structures. There is a men's urinal,
unisex toilet and women's toilet. All of
these facilities are kept well-stocked
and spotless by camp staff. Antibacterial hand gel is provided for hand
cleaning.
All human waste is removed from
Union Glacier Camp. Urine is kept
separate from feces for ease of
transport. Men's (stand-up) and women's (sit-down) urinals are provided. Toilet paper is disposed
of in the receptacles provided. Urine is collected in large plastic containers (IBC's) and
transported to Chile for appropriate disposal. Separate sit-down toilets are provided for feces.
This is bagged and also removed from Antarctica for proper disposal in Chile.
Communications and Meteorology
Good communication and weather information are crucial for safe operations. Not surprising
then that the Comms facility is the centre of “on ice” operations. Satellite phone, VHF and HF
radio maintain regular contact with the logistics company's Punta Arenas office, field parties,
aircraft and other bases. It is possible to make outgoing Iridium phone calls from Union Glacier
and pre-paid phone cards may be purchased at the camp. The on-site meteorologist uses local
observations, information from automatic weather stations and satellite imagery to provide wind
and weather information to flight crews and expeditions.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
Power and Charging
Systems are solar-powered to minimize environmental impact and there are limited
solar/charging facilities to guests. Competitors will need a 12V DC-DC charger capable of
plugging in to a “female” cigarette lighter socket to use the system.
Transportation
Two specially adapted 4x4 passenger vans are used for excursions around Union Glacier and to
shuttle guests to and from the runway. There is also a fleet of specialized vehicles for snow
clearing, runway maintenance and ground transportation in Antarctica. These include an
industrial snow-blower, several tractors, snowcat, skiway groomer and a number of snowmobiles
and sleds. A team of mechanics operate and maintain these machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be guaranteed to be in and out of the Antarctic as scheduled?
No. You are going to one of
the most difficult places in
the world to fly to. Days of
delay can be normal for
Antarctic flights and you
should not plan anything
important for a minimum of
one week after your expected
return. Allow yourself time to
enjoy this unique experience
without the stress of time pressures. Of course, every effort will be made to keep to the
scheduled departure and return date, but all flights are subject to weather, aircraft serviceability
and local conditions.
Where is our departure point for Antarctica?
Our departure point for Antarctica is a town called
Punta Arenas in Chile, South America. You will
arrange round trip flights from your homeland to
Punta Arenas and you should arrive in Punta
Arenas by November 17th at the latest. From there,
you will be flown to the Union Glacier camp in
Antarctica. Detailed information about Punta
Arenas will be given to registered entrants.
How do I get to Punta Arenas, Chile?
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
You will book your international flight to arrive in Santiago, the capital of Chile. There are
regular internal flights from Santiago to Punta Arenas via the Lan Chile airline. Specific advice
on flights will be given to registered participants, but you should essentially ensure that there is
flexibility with your return date. On arrival in Punta Arenas, you will go to your hotel and be
briefed further about onward travel arrangements to the Antarctic.
Where will I stay in Punta Arenas?
The official race hotel is the Diego de Almagro where preferential rates will be obtained for Ice
Marathon participants. However, competitors can choose from a range of other hotels with prices
from US$50 - US$300 per night depending on quality and services. When booking a hotel, bear
in mind that your budget should cover the possibility of being stuck in Punta Arenas for several
days before the jet actually takes off for the Antarctic.
By what means am I transported to the
Antarctic?
An Ilyushin-76 (IL-76) plane will fly you to the
Union Glacier camp at the foot of the Ellsworth
Mountains in Antarctica. It’s a 4.5-hour flight that
will see you fly over Tierra del Fuego and the
Drake Passage before getting your first glimpse of
frozen seas below. At 66 degrees latitude you will
cross the Antarctic Circle and continue towards the
icy continent. The ice sheet will continue to stretch
inland until you see the spectacular Ellsworth
Mountains. We will land on an ice runway at the
southernmost extension of these mountains - 80 Degrees South.
What date will the races take place?
The Antarctic Ice Marathon is scheduled to take place on November 20th 2013 and the Antarctic
100k will be run on November 22nd 2013. All dates are subject to change in accordance with
weather conditions and related flight re-scheduling. For example, if our stay in the Antarctic
needs to be shortened significantly then some events could even be run simultaneously.
Where exactly will the races take place?
The marathon race will be run in the vicinity of the Union Glacier camp on a 25km loop
followed by a 17.2km inner loop. The 100km race will encompass four laps of the 25km circuit.
There will be aid stations every 8km approximately.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
I have no prior extreme weather experience. Is it ok for me to run in the Antarctic?
Yes. Proper clothing should ensure the cold is not a completely overwhelming problem when
running or walking these races. You will be fully advised on what to wear and your clothing will
be checked for suitability prior to leaving Punta Arenas. A number of aid checkpoints are
available on the course as well as one large heated structure at the half-way point. Some
participants will probably never have encountered extremely cold conditions before travelling to
the Antarctic, though it is preferable that you did have
such experience.
Will it be safe to run?
Yes. Flags will guide athletes around the course and
participants should be visible at almost all times.
However, it is important to keep your peripherals
covered and to be alert to any signs of frost damage.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
With little marathon experience, will I be able to finish the Antarctic Ice Marathon?
Yes. If you are determined, train properly and can run or walk a distance of 26.2 miles very
comfortably, then you should be able to complete the Antarctic Ice Marathon successfully.
However, it will be a slow and difficult experience as running for long periods on snow in subzero temperatures can be very draining. Nevertheless, one of the priorities of the organiser is to
have everybody finish the race and there is a very generous cut-off time of 10 hours. However,
only experienced ultramarathon and endurance athletes should attempt the 100k race.
What is the weather usually like?
The temperature at Union Glacier typically ranges from –10C to –20C at this time of year.
However, with fairly steady winds blowing from the Pole, the wind chill will lower the apparent
temperature by some 10 to 20 degrees. On the other hand, the air temperature on a calm day can
feel much warmer, almost balmy! Winds will more generally blow at a steady 10 – 25 knots.
What are the underfoot conditions at Union
Glacier?
The course will be groomed before the race and
may comprise a reasonably solid ice surface.
However, it can also be comprised of soft and loose
snow in places, and both features may be evident
on the circuit.
What shoes should I wear when running?
A pair of trail running shoes will work out best.
What clothes should I wear when running?
A layering system is best, which should incorporate
the following:
Upper body – thermal layer, fleece layer and outer
windproof shell
Legs – thermal layer and windproof pants (middle
fleece layer optional)
Hands – pair of gloves and mittens
Feet – sock liners and woollen socks
Head – balaclava, facemask, hat, neck gaiter,
goggles
It is extremely important to keep the peripherals warm (hands, feet, face) as these are the most
vulnerable to cold-related conditions such as frost nip.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
Will there be media coverage of the race?
Yes. A press release will be issued to a worldwide database after the event. Leading international
sports photographers and / or TV have been present at all previous races.
Will it be cold?
The trip takes place in the Antarctic summer (November) when the weather is at its best.
Average mid-season temperatures from 10F to 25F (-12C to -4C ). On a sunny windless day it
can feel quite warm but, when the wind blows, you will be glad of warm layers and a wind
jacket. Temperatures can drop as low as -22F (-30C) in early November.
Do I need travel insurance?
It is strongly recommended that you consider Trip Cancellation and Interruption insurance, to
protect you in case you need to cancel for any reason.
When should I arrive in Punta Arenas?
You should arrive in Punta Arenas, Chile at least two days before your scheduled departure, i.e.
November 17th. This allows time for clothing and equipment checks and provides a buffer in
case you should miss a flight connection or have lost luggage. An environmental and logistics
briefing will be held at 10am on the morning prior to departure (November 18th). The logistics
company will collect your luggage and load the aircraft that afternoon, ready for departure.
What is the commitment to safety?
The logistics company’s activities are subject to detailed risk management and contingency
planning that allow for the remote and harsh Antarctic environment. Preparations include
detailed emergency planning and equipment to deal with all eventualities. The logistics company
team s known for their experience and expertise. The Union Glacier camp has a basic medical
clinic staffed by a doctor and medic who specialize in emergency and remote medicine and
support personnel keep a 24-hour watch during our operating season and are ready to respond day or night - in case of emergency. They also maintain other camp facilities and pre-placed fuel
caches in the interior of Antarctica to support our flights. Established procedures and
communication protocols and continued investment in equipment and technology all contribute
to safe and enjoyable experiences.
Is it hard to sleep with 24-hour daylight?
Most people find they are not bothered by the 24-hour daylight and have no difficulty sleeping.
However, you may wish to bring an eyeshade such as those provided on airlines.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
How is the food? Can You Cater to Special Dietary Requests?
In a word, delicious. Our guests always compliment us on the meals prepared by our experienced
international chefs at Union Glacier Camp. We regularly fly in fresh fruits and vegetables, meats
and fish from Chile and maintain an ample stock of pastas, grains and other staples in our ice
cave. Dinners are accompanied by wine and beer.
Can I call home?
You can make outgoing phone calls from Union Glacier Camp using Iridium satellite phones
available at the Camp. Pre-paid phone cards can be purchased at either camp at a cost of $US40
for 20 minutes (or other amounts). Some guests choose to bring their own Iridium satellite phone
and charging system. Regular cell phones and other satellite phones (e.g. Globalstar) do not work
at these latitudes.
Can I shower or bathe?
In keeping with a commitment to best environmental practices and to minimise the amount of
waste water produced, there are no shower facilities for guests. We are happy to provide a
thermos of hot water for you to wash in the privacy of your tent. Anti-bacterial hand-gel is
available for hand cleaning. Many guests bring pre-moistened towellettes for a quick freshen-up.
We ask you to help minimize our environmental impact by limiting the amount of grey water
you produce.
TESTIMONIALS FROM 2011 PARTICIPANTS
"I highly recommend this experience, everything was first class. From the leadership of Richard
Donovan, the hospitality of the staff at camp, the accommodation, the camaraderie of the runners
and of course the excitement of being in Antarctica."
Christopher Duff (USA)
"Antarctica is remote and beautiful. The landscape and environment are to be respected. I could
not have ordered a more perfect day for Race Day. The people were amazing. The organisers
were phenomenal, logistics went without a hitch, and the competitors were great to be around.
The food at the end of the earth was fantastic. Thank you, Richard for an amazing adventure."
Michael Parrot (Canada)
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
"The Antarctic Ice Marathon trip was beautiful, poetic, romantic, inspiring beyond words. Worth
anything in the world. I long to go back for more of it. Thanks so much."
Mala Honnatti (India)
"The Antarctic Ice Marathon was an amazing experience in an extraordinary place. The
camaraderie within the camp gave the whole trip a positive vibe as everyone was friendly. Being
the youngest competitor at 16 was an experience in itself and I feel privileged that I was able to
run the ice marathon as my first marathon. Completing the run with my father was a unique
experience to share with him and will be a talking point for some time. The scenery of the
Antarctic is stunning and the trip as a whole was something I will never forget."
Jeremy Cashen (New Zealand)
"Doing an Antarctic marathon with my 16-year-old son was always going to be special. This one
was made more so by the professionalism of the management and the wonderful staff. Fellow
runners were generous with their support & encouragement, and all of this was enhanced by the
competence & kindness of race director Richard Donovan."
Tom Cashen (New Zealand)
"The Ice Marathon had the perfect ingredients; the planning, the people and the place. What a
place! Thank you for creating such a unique and unparalleled opportunity. There can be no place
on earth more exquisite or more forbidding than this frozen wilderness."
Yvonne Brown (Great Britain)
The 2011 Antarctic Ice Marathon and 100km will remain lifelong experiences for me. The
events combine surreal scenery with exceptional and complex running conditions. Runners have
to deal with many parameters - cold, sun, wind, sweat - but above all it is a Human adventure.
Nobody gets to Antarctica by chance: there are only passionate people on the 7th continent. All
these exceptional factors helped me to give my best during the races, but once back home I
encountered the Antarctic blues....I need to go back!"
Clement Thevenet (France)
"Running the 2011 Ice Marathon and 100K Ultra were true tests of endurance in one of the
world's most spectacular and surreal environments. The competitors were a rare breed of athlete,
highly accomplished and pedigreed, but also humble story-tellers who brought tales of exotic
adventures from across the globe. While the race conditions were daunting, the team at Union
Glacier did an exceptional job delivering a challenging, yet safe, memorable experience. Many
thanks to Richard Donovan and all of the 2011 race competitors for supporting and inspiring the
completion of my first 100K. Anyone looking for new frontiers of experience need look no
further..."
Matthew von Ertfelda (USA)
"After traveling to the North Pole with Polar Running Adventures in 2008 and 2009 there was no
doubt that I wanted to head south with Richard and his team. When heading to unpredictable
polar regions, travelling with somebody as experienced and organised as Richard is a guarantee
for a very well organised trip, a fantastic marathon, an amazing adventure, a fun journey and a
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
lifetime of friends and memories."
Sarah Ames (Germany)
"The Antarctic Ice Marathon surpassed all of my expectations and that bar was set high. It's an
experience that will provide you with many incredible memories. Richard did a fantastic job in
organising the race and the people you meet are a joy to be around. It is quite a surreal feeling
running along the glacier with such stunning scenery. A great adventure for any running
enthusiast!"
Dave Kennedy (USA)
"Words cannot truly describe the Antarctic Ice Marathon trip. Very few life experiences combine
all the elements of authentic exploration and world class adventure in such a captivating location
as Union Glacier. You will test your mettle with like minded people from all over the world on
the planet's least forgiving continent. Like I joke with my running mates, 'What you don't spend
on running, travel, and beer, you just waste!'"
Brent Weigner (USA)
"The Antarctic Ice Marathon is a truly life-changing event. Aside from the physical challenge
you will endure, the magnificence of the environment you will encounter will leave a powerful
lasting impression. I felt humbled and yet empowered by the experience and met some of the
most inspirational and extreme characters on the planet. If you have the chance to do this, don't
hesitate."
Elizabeth Chapman (Great Britain)
"The experience and excitement of running a marathon in Antarctica has surpassed all
expectations with memories that will last a lifetime. I don’t know where else can you meet so
many adventurous people from around the world that have experienced so much. The camp, food
and living conditions were superior for the environment, and the entire staff were excellent."
Ray Miller (USA)
There are countless inspiring running races around the world, but if you’re looking for the daddy
of them all, you need to head south to the Antarctic Ice Marathon. No other race can touch it for
inaccessibility, extreme conditions and sheer icy magnificence. And as for its competitors, you
won’t find a more varied, eccentric and vigorous bunch of runners anywhere else on the planet."
Alison Hamlett (Great Britain), Runner's World Magazine
Testimonials from 2010 Participants
"In 2010 I ran 52 international marathons in 52 weeks. I had a lifetime of adventures and
memories, but nothing could have prepared me for the magic of Antarctica and the camaraderie I
felt with the other participants. Of all the places I visited in 2010, the Antarctic experience and
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
the Ice Marathon are the stories I tell the most. Just spectacular, thanks Richard!"
Tristan Miller (Australlia)
"This trip is exceptional: Exceptional running, exceptional scenery, lots of laughs and good
times. I also did the North Pole Marathon in 2008 and both trips just stay in your heart forever! I
cannot think of a better gift to give oneself or someone else for that matter."
Cathrine Due (Denmark)
"A remarkable event in a remarkable part of the world. It's well planned, skilfully executed,
there's good food, warm lodgings and a swathe of the most interesting folk one is ever likely to
meet in one place - what's not to like?"
Gary van Vuuren (Great Britain)
"This marathon is one of the most awe inspiring I have ever run and that's saying something. The
beauty of this harsh landscape was made even more enjoyable knowing that we were in good
hands. Everyone in charge was friendly and helpful. The course was well marked and well
supplied with support (cheering included). All the difficulties of logistics were overcome by the
organisers and it was very well planned. The best part of this run are the friends you can make
for life."
Sarah Oliphant (USA)
"The Antarctic Ice Marathon was my favorite marathon by far. Although difficult, the experience
was surreal and it couldn't have been organised by anyone better. Thank you very much."
Travis Kiefer (USA)
"The Ice Marathon 2010 was absolutely great! I was really impressed with this event and its
perfect organisation. It was the adventure of my life. I would recommend it to anybody."
Ireneusz Szpot (Poland)
"A once in a lifetime adventure ...something amazing about running in the snow in such a scenic
landscape ....it takes your breath away (what the run doesn't already take!)"
Ken Krys (Canada)
Surreal scenery, creating the feeling I was on a different planet. Perfect organisation. Friendly &
nice competitors, sharing amazing stories. Great food. Great photos. Great... everything! It was
the most beautiful marathon I have attended so far and I plan to return to Antarctica someday,
running together with my son... hopefully!"
Andrei Rosu (Romania)
"Thank you Richard and Polar Running Adventures for making possible a lifelong dream, and
the greatest running experience I have ever had. The solitude of distance running combined with
the beautiful isolation of the loneliest continent is something few of us have been lucky enough
to enjoy. Sharing the event with an inspirational group of fellow runners was an added bonus.
The environment was surreal, and the organisation of everything from the catering to the event
itself was superb. I could not have enjoyed it more. It was a week of my life I will remember
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
forever."
Brett Karlson (South Africa)
"The race was very well organized. A lot of effort was made to groom the course and ensure our
safety. The course was challenging but not impossible to finish. What an amazing experience!"
Mike Heyl (USA)
"It was always a dream of mine to go to Antarctica and I was very pleased with choosing to visit the
continent by running the Antarctic Ice Marathon. I always felt the communication was superb and felt
safe at all times. This is the most scenic marathon I've ever run.....and in addition to visiting Antarctica, I
came away from the experience befriending amazing and impressive runners from all over the world."
Joseph Lim (USA)
“This is the most exciting marathon I have ever run and it is a polar adventure in itself. The camp
and race are set in amazing Antarctic surroundings and the trip is very well organized despite its
many natural obstacles.”
René Gross Kærskov (Denmark)
"On my journey to Punta Arenas I read a book about a different marathon in the Antarctic
peninsula (not actually on the Antarctic continent) which had stories of runners trudging through
sludge, scenery that wasn’t quite what they imagined, and a story of a time when they couldn’t
land and had to run the marathon on a boat. I started to wonder what was in store for us in the Ice
Marathon, but I could never have imagined the beauty and breathtaking nature of the experience
we were about to embark upon. From the exhilaration of landing on a naturally formed blue ice
runway in the awesome Ilyushin plane, the wind howling past the tents through the sunlit 'nights'
to the silence as we ran across the endless glacier with the only sounds being your breath and the
crunching noise of your feet breaking the snow; this was the most incredible experience of my
life and topped off by meeting some of the most amazing and inspirational people you could ever
hope to meet."
Greg Swan (Australia)
This is a fantastic event on about a hundred different levels. It is 26.2 miles in some of the most
picturesque, awe-inspiring terrain you will ever encounter, and at the same time it is much, much
more than that. An extraordinary event shared with amazing people in an extraordinary part of
the world. Seize the moment if you have the opportunity to participate in this race --you will not
be disappointed.
John Welk (USA)
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
About Polar Running Adventures
Polar Running Adventures is operated by multiple polar marathoner Richard Donovan. A native
of Ireland, he is also the organiser of the annual North Pole Marathon.
In addition to completing
marathons in both the Arctic and
Antarctic, Richard has
participated in other extreme
locations such as the Sahara and
Atacama Deserts, the Andes and
Himalayan mountains and the
Amazon Jungle. He has won
races such as the Inca Trail
Marathon, Himalayan 100-Mile
Stage Race, Everest Challenge
Marathon and South Pole
Marathon as well as representing
Ireland as an international
ultramarathon runner.
In February 2009 Richard set a new record for running marathons on all seven continents when
he completed his 'World Marathon Challenge' in 5 days 10 hours 8 minutes. Later that
year, he won the Antarctic 100k for the third time and was race director at both the Anglo Celtic
Plate 100km and the Commonwealth Championships 100km.
In 2010, he was race director of the official World 50km Final and in July 2011 he organised the
IAU Trail World Championships where he was awarded the Order of Merit by the International
Association of Ultra Runners. Richard was also race director at the inaugural
Commonwealth Championships at Trail Running in September 2011 prior to directing the 7th
Antarctic Ice Marathon races in December 2011. He completed the first 100-mile run within the
Antarctic Circle on 2nd December 2011 to coincide with the 100-year anniversary of Man
reaching the South Pole.
In February 2012, Richard broke his existing world record for running marathons on all seven
continents when he completed the 2012 World Marathon Challenge in 4 days 22 hours 3
minutes.
Leading international magazines, including National Geographic Adventure, Sports Illustrated
and Runner’s World, have published feature length interviews and reports on Richard’s
adventure race performances. He also featured in various documentaries, including the world
syndicated BBC programme ‘Desert: The Challenge’, which was narrated by Mike Stroud.
A former economist, Richard was educated in Ireland and the USA and received postgraduate
academic scholarships in both countries.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.
He has been elected Director of the Association of International Association of Ultra Runners
(the world governing body for ultrarunning) for the period 2012-2016.
While Polar Running Adventures promotes and organises the Antarctic Ice Marathon races,
Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions provides all of the associated logistical support
Copyright © 2005-2012 Richard Donovan, Polar Running Adventures. All Rights Reserved.