The Greatest Endurance Sporting Event Ever

The Badwater Ultramarathon -- An annual ultra-marathon, held every July, that starts in Death Valley in California, at the lowest point in N. America and ends at the trailhead of the highest mountain in the lower 48 states, a total distance of 135 miles. The summer heat can rise to as much as 135 degrees Fahrenheit and the total elevation gain during the course of this race is approximately 13,000 feet.

85 individuals participated this year, 67 completed the race.

One, very good, account of the 2006 race is here.

Another one is here.

The first Indian, ever, to participate completed the race too (50th on the list). Nattu Natraj -- I salute you.