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Equipment

Be Prepared for the Challenge

Find below all the essential details about the cumulsory and recommended equipment for the Salt Pans Ultra, along with helpful advice on organizing your gear efficiently. 

Explore each section carefully to make sure you have everything you need for a safe and successful race.

Runners are not allowed to start without the compulsory equipment. 

Please read carefully the list below!

Compulsory EQUIPMENT

Compulsory Equipment may be checked at registration.

Please make sure you thoroughly check the compulsory kit lists.

Runners must have a GPS device with an uploaded GPX route matching their race distance.

Please note that mobile phones cannot be used for navigation.

Runners must ensure they are familiar with how to use their navigation devices.

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Cumpulsory Equipment List

GPS Watch

Backpack with 3L Water

Phone

400 KCAL Nutrition

Headlamp with Spare Batteries

Space Blanket

Whistle

Cup

Hat

Signal Mirror 

BiB Number

To tackle the harsh and unpredictable conditions of the salt pans, consider these recommended items in addition to the compulsory gear.

Proper preparation with these items will help you navigate the challenges of the Salt Pans Ultra with greater ease and confidence.

Recommended EQUIPMENT

Trail Running Shoes

Buff

Sunglasses

Sunblock

Gaiters

Running Poles

Lip Balm

Spare Socks

Vaseline and Blister Plaster

Sun Protection: Sunblock and sunglasses are strongly recommended. The bright, reflective surface of the pans can intensify sunburn and strain your eyes. Polarized sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are the way to go.

Buff: The salt pans can experience strong winds that kick up sand or even lead to sandstorms. A buff protects your face and helps you breathe comfortably in these conditions.

Gaiters: Gaiters are vital to keep sand and debris out of your shoes, reducing discomfort and injury risk. Make sure they’re securely attached in advance.

Trail Running Shoes: Trail running shoes with good grip are crucial. The terrain varies from hard and crusty to sandy, and depending on the rainy season, you might encounter wet, muddy, or slippery sections. Proper shoes will significantly improve your performance and comfort.

Trekking Poles: Trekking poles can provide stability on muddy or uneven terrain. Whether you use them is a personal choice, so test them during training to decide if they work for you.

No Tears in the Salt Pans

Read the article from Carla Farina. 

She’s a Hoka ONE ONE runner, our Salt Pans Ultra Race Ambassador and also writes a monthly column in the South African running magazine “Trail MisAdventures”.

You can read the article here:

Read more

Racecheck Gold Award 2024 for Salt Pans Ultra Marathon

We’re incredibly proud to announce that the Salt Pans Ultra 2024 has again been awarded the Racecheck Gold Award, with an impressive 4.93-star average rating from over 50 reviews! This milestone brings us closer to earning a spot among the Top Rated Races on Racecheck, a platform dedicated to helping athletes find, review, and choose the best endurance events worldwide.

Ranked 13th out of 1,750 off-road running races in 2024 we are high in the Top 1% of races.

Racecheck connects a global community of runners, cyclists, and triathletes, allowing them to share race experiences and recognize events that truly stand out. Achieving this award reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved—from participants to volunteers, to our dedicated team behind the scenes.

Thank you to each and every one of you who voted and helped make this possible. We look forward to creating even more memorable moments together at future events!

Jodie Russell's Remarkable Victory at the 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 50km

In a stunning display of endurance and speed, Jodie Russell claimed first place in the 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 50km, finishing with an impressive time of 5 hours and 35 minutes—just 3 minutes shy of the course’s fastest record. Known for its demanding terrain across Botswana’s vast salt flats, the Salt Pans Ultra is a true test for any ultra-runner, and Russell rose to the challenge with grit and determination.

Russell’s near-record time is a testament to her relentless training and racing prowess, as she maneuvered through the rugged landscape with an impressive pace and strategic precision. The Salt Pans’ harsh environment, with its expansive, barren flats and ever-changing weather conditions, tested every runner, but Russell stayed focused, drawing strength from the raw beauty and challenge of the terrain.

After the race, Russell shared her excitement about her win and the unforgettable experience. “Running on the salt pans is unlike anything else—it’s challenging, yet incredibly rewarding,” she said. “It was just me and the elements out there, and that pushed me to dig deeper.”

Congratulations to Jodie Russell on her outstanding performance in the Salt Pans Ultra 50km! Her remarkable achievement brings her within reach of the course’s fastest time, setting the stage for future challenges and inspiring the ultra-running community.

Tylor Rocha Shatters Record to Win 2024 Salt Pans Ultra 100km

Tylor Rocha shattered the Salt Pans Ultra 100km record with an impressive 11:37 finish in 2024. The grueling course, softened by the absence of mud this year, allowed Rocha to push limits and set a new benchmark. Battling winds and the vast salt flats, the ultra runner effort’s are all the more impressive as he is new to the sport.

In his post-race interview, Rocha expressed gratitude for the support from fans, fellow runners, and his team. He also credited the unique beauty and challenging terrain of the Salt Pans for pushing him to reach new levels in his performance. “There’s something about the salt pans that pulls you in,” he shared. “It’s humbling, but it’s also inspiring. It makes you give everything.”
Congratulations to Tylor Rocha on this incredible achievement! His record-breaking time is sure to be celebrated by the ultra-running community and will serve as a high benchmark for future competitors aiming to tackle the Salt Pans Ultra.