The Barkley Marathons: 'The Race That Eats Its Young'
Written By: SportsShoes
Arguably the most unique, bizarre and challenging trail race in the world, The Barkley Marathons is a sporting event like no other.
Staged in Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee, USA, the 100-mile suffer-fest sees runners attempt to complete an ultra-marathon so tough that only 17 people have reached the finish line since 1986.
It's easy to understand why it's known as 'The Race That Eats Its Young'.
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'If you're going to face a real challenge, it needs to be a real challenge. You can't accomplish anything without the possibility of failure'
Lazarus Lake, Race Organiser of The Barkley Marathons
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Here, in the form of photo diary, British photographer David Miller gives us a little insight into the 2023 edition of The Barkley Marathons.
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Pictured: The most iconic moment in ultra-running when Lazarus Lake lights his cigarette to mark the start of the Barkley Marathons.
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Pictured: Three times Barkley finisher Jared Campbell taking a pit-stop in the camp shower block.
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Pictured: Belgian athlete Karel Sabbe digging deep climbing ‘Rat Jaw.’
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Pictured: The blowing of the conch marks one hour until the start of arguably the world's most hellish race.
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Pictured: If you know you know.
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'For some people, just to get back to camp alive, is all they want in the world.'
Lazarus Lake, Race Organiser of The Barkley Marathons
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Pictured: British athlete Jasmin Paris taking a moment to refuel after completing one loop.
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Pictured: Ben Yansey reflecting on his Barkley experience moments after being tapped out.
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Pictured: Navigation comes with its consequences.
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Pictured: American athlete John Kelly descending ‘Rat Jaw’ during his fifth and final loop.
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Pictured: The moment Karel Sabbe touched the iconic yellow gate to become the 17th Barkley finisher.
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All images are copyright protected.
You can follow David on Instagram and Strava
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Related post: The Mudcrew Arc of Attrition 2023 | The Trail Hub | SportsShoes.com
