In the Spell of the Barkley: Unravelling the Mystery of the World's Toughest Ultramarathon

The Barkley Marathons is an ultra-endurance race that pushes competitors to their physical and mental limits, with only a select few completing it. Journalist and ultrarunner Michiel Panhuysen has entered the race multiple times and has fallen under its spell, having won on each occasion. The book explores the obsession with this enigmatic race and what it takes to succeed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Welcome to the Barkley Marathons, a remarkable and captivating ultra-event that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. This extraordinary journey is inspired by a daring prison break, heralded by a conch blast, funded solely by cigarettes and socks, and completed only by a select few. It is a race that pushes competitors to their physical and mental limits, as they embark on a grueling trek up mountains, navigating through extreme weather conditions, and enduring pain and exhaustion, mile after mile. Finishing just 60 miles? That's merely the warm-up. Journalist and ultrarunner Michiel Panhuysen has been a multiple entrant in this enigmatic race since the early 2010s, falling under the spell of its enigmatic organizer, Lazarus Lake. Each time he participates, the Barkley triumphs, showcasing its almost unbeatable nature. In "The Spell of the Barkley," we delve into the realm of sporting obsession, exploring the driving forces that propel individuals to push the boundaries of what is deemed possible. We witness the unwavering determination and resilience of those who embrace this extraordinary challenge, as they navigate through treacherous terrain, endure excruciating pain, and overcome the odds to achieve their goals.

Dimension: 234 x 153 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399405423