Rwanda’s First Multi-Stage Ultra Marathon to Take Place in January 2025
Rwanda’s first-ever multi-stage ultra marathon, Ultra X Rwanda, will take place in January 2025, marking a major milestone in the country’s sporting calendar. This event is part of an exciting year for Rwanda, which will also host the World Cycling Championships later in 2025.
The race will be held in the picturesque Burera and Musanze districts, featuring some of Rwanda’s most breathtaking landscapes. The course includes stunning views of the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, the majestic Virunga Mountains, and five iconic volcanoes: Mt. Muhabura, Mt. Sabyinyo, Mt. Karisimbi, Mt. Bisoke, and Mt. Gahinga.
Runners have the option to participate in:
- A 2-day, 110km race covering the full weekend.
- A shorter 50km race taking place on Sunday.
Over 100 international competitors will travel to Rwanda for the event, hailing from the United States, Australia, and Europe. In addition, Ultra X is offering a special local race entry fee to make the event more accessible for Rwandan and East African runners.
Ultra X, supported by the Clarion Welbsy Foundation, will also provide essential kit to local runners, ensuring they are fully equipped to compete.
Alexander Fetherston-Godley, Race Director at Ultra X said:
“We are thrilled to bring the inaugural Ultra X Rwanda to life. The event will showcase Rwanda’s extraordinary beauty and allow our international competitors to experience its warm culture and welcoming people. Most importantly, we want this event to be celebrated as a Rwandan and African race first and foremost, which is why we’ve worked hard to make it accessible to East African participants.”
UK High Commissioner to Rwanda Alison Thorpe said:
This is ultramarathon will be an incredible test of athleticism and endurance in some of Rwanda’s most beautiful locations. I wish the runners the best of luck as they race through the land of 1000 hills!
At the British High Commission, we believe sports are fundamental to promoting good health and that they can be a brilliant driver of economic growth. It is fantastic to see British Companies like Ultra X work in Rwanda, and that is why I will be working with the Rwandan Ministry of Sports and Partners to promote this event and others like it.
Rwanda’s minister of Sports Richard Nyirishema said:
“The Ministry of Sports upholds organisers of the Ultra X Rwanda competition, an event that celebrates athletic excellence and endurance. Taking place in the Northern districts of Burera and Musanze, Ultra X Rwanda provides athletes with a challenging and inspiring course set against Rwanda’s stunning natural backdrop. This event not only promotes long-distance running but also fosters a spirit of determination, resilience, and sportsmanship among participants. We encourage athletes from all over the world to test their limits and experience the power of sport in Rwanda.”
Interested participants can access the local entry registration here.
About Ultra X Rwanda – Tugende Partnership
Ultra X is a global multi-day ultramarathon series offering trail races in some of the world’s most adventurous and scenic locations. The series has hosted events in Sri Lanka, Mexico, and Croatia, with its current portfolio spanning Rwanda, Tanzania, Scotland, Finland, Slovenia, Wales, England, Jordan, Nevada, Morocco, and Madeira.
Ultra X races are designed to cater to all trail runners, offering entry distances ranging from 25km to 50km, 60km, 110km (2-day races), and 220km (5-day multi-stage races).
For Ultra X Rwanda, Ultra X has partnered with Tugende, an organization that shares Ultra X’s mission of promoting well-being and creating a positive impact through sport and community. Tugende will support the operational and promotional aspects of the event, engaging both local runners and expats based in Rwanda.
