“AdventureCORPS, Inc., an event production firm specializing in ultra-endurance and extreme sports events, hosts BADWATER® 135 annually in July of each year. Recognized globally as “the world’s toughest foot race,” this legendary event pits up to 100 of the world’s toughest athletes—runners, triathletes, adventure racers, and mountaineers—against one another and the elements. Covering 135 miles (217km) non-stop from Death Valley to Mt. Whitney, CA in temperatures up to 130F (55c), it is the most demanding and extreme running race offered anywhere on the planet. The 36th anniversary edition is July 15-17, 2013.” – badwater.com

Not bad. Little 135 mile race through Death Valley to get the blood flowing. Here’s the route these psychopath’s take:

I got tired just trying to figure out where the beginning and end of the route was. Anytime you see the words “Death Valley” in the middle of your running route I think you should just pack up your things, go home and count it as a loss. According to the official website, one of the main symptoms participants experience is chronic back fatigue. You don’t say. You mean running 135 miles over 48 hours in 130 degree heat isn’t good for the back?

Here’s an example of the beautiful landscape the runner’s get to experience:

Gorgeous right? Except the fact that you’re basically trying to complete a death march. You could project a velvet painting of a whale and a dolphin getting it on in the sky for the entire race and that still wouldn’t change the fact that I’m making the worst decision of my life.

To the legitimately insane people who complete, or even attempt this race: bravo. Give me a 48 hour heads up before you snap and start trying to rob liquor stores with rubber duckies.Because it’s going to happen.

– Ryan

P.S. This guy finished the ultramarathon with a prosthetic leg. Enjoy your hour of cardio on the treadmill this weekend you two legged freaks.