Qualifier Race
NO Run without a QUALIFIER RACE
We require a recent qualifier race because the Salt Pans Ultra is an extreme endurance event held in a remote and challenging environment.
The combination of distance, heat, and isolation demands a solid foundation of running experience and physical preparedness.
This rule helps ensure that every participant has the necessary fitness and resilience to complete the event safely and responsibly.
The qualifier is required for all distances, 50km, 100km and 100 miles.
What races are qualifer races?
We accept qualifying results from officially certified road races sanctioned by World Athletics/AIMS, IAA, or other equivalent governing bodies, as well as from trail events recognised by ITRA, UTMB, or similar organisations.
We understand that there are many reputable races that may not fall under these specific certifications. In such cases, we will review the submitted race details individually and make a decision on a case-by-case basis. This approach ensures fairness while maintaining the high safety and performance standards required for participation in the Salt Pans Ultra.
Qualifier Distance
To ensure that all participants are adequately prepared for the demands of the Salt Pans Ultra, runners must meet a minimum qualifying standard.
Entrants to the SPU50 are required to have completed at least one officially timed marathon (42.2 km) or longer within the past 12 months.
Entrants to the SPU100 must have completed an officially timed ultra-distance race of 50 km or longer, or a comparable event that clearly demonstrates the ability to cover this distance within the same period.
Entrants to the SPU 100 Miler must have completed an officially timed ultra-distance race of 100 km or longer within the last two years, or a comparable event that clearly demonstrates the ability to cover this distance.
Former Salt Pans Ultra Finishers are exempt from this requirement, as their previous completion is considered valid proof of qualification and experience.
Multi-day stage races do not automatically count as a single-day distance. However, we may accept them depending on the daily mileage. These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
If you are unsure whether your previous race qualifies for the Salt Pans Ultra, please contact us directly by email using our online form.
Our team will review your race details and confirm eligibility on a case-by-case basis.