The infamous Barkley Marathons is underway once again, with runners setting out in the remote wilderness of Frozen Head State Park, Tennessee. This year’s event officially began early this morning following the traditional blowing of the conch. Some of the world’s toughest endurance athletes answered the call, knowing they face an extreme test of physical and mental endurance over the next 60 hours.
At this point, we know Barkley legend John Kelly is taking part, and that Ihor Verys, the Canadian-Ukranian runner that won last year’s event, is not in the field.
Other names so far include Americans Max King and Christiana Rugloski, French runners Aurélien Sanchez and Simon Lancelevé as well as Belgian runner Raphaël Daco.
The Barkley Marathons is notorious for its brutal demands. Participants must complete five loops of a course that spans over 20 miles per lap, totaling approximately 120 miles, all within a strict 60-hour time limit. The course, known for its relentless elevation changes and punishing terrain, requires runners to navigate off-trail sections, locate hidden books, and retrieve pages as proof of completion. Failure to return with the correct pages or to meet time cutoffs results in disqualification. There are no aid stations, and runners rely solely on their personal crew between loops.
Since the race’s inception in 1986, only 20 individuals have ever finished the event.
As in previous years, the race began with its unique traditions. A moment of silence was held in memory of past runners, followed by the lighting of a ceremonial cigarette—Lazarus Lake’s signature way of officially commencing the race.
For those eager to follow the action, real-time updates on the Barkley Marathons are being shared by race official Keith Dunn on social media, providing insights into the progress of runners as they battle through the relentless terrain of Frozen Head State Park. With time ticking away and the race’s punishing demands taking their toll, all eyes are on whether 2025 will see another runner etch their name into the record books as a rare Barkley finisher.
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