You might think running one hundred thirty five miles without stopping in 120 degree temperatures is beyond human capability, but the Badwater UltraMarathon proves that wrong.

Death Valley California is not a comfortable place. It’s dry, dull, and very, very hot. It even holds the world’s record for the highest air temperature ever recorded on Earth, at 134 degrees Fahrenheit. The thought of staying down there in the hottest months frightens most people. But, in 1969, two men, Stan Rodefer and Jim Burnworth, decided to take on the challenge of hiking over one hundred miles through Death Valley. They were successful in their journey, and more people began thinking about attempting a run through Death Valley. The first person to act on this was Al Arnold.

In 1974 Al Arnold attempted a run of one hundred thirty five miles through the scorching Death Valley. His first attempt had to be cut short due to severe dehydration. This did not kill his motivation, and he attempted again the next year. That was also unsuccessful. Al had a knee injury and needed to stop at fifty miles. The next year’s attempt also had to be cancelled because of injury. Finally, in 1977, Al Arnold became the first man to successfully run through Death Valley. His trek rose a lot of discussion in the running community. More people began attempting the same route as Al Arnold. Four years later, in 1981, Jay Birmingham became the second person to run in Death Valley. More and more people began hearing of the 135 mile route in Death Valley, and the first organized foot race was created. The course started in Badwater and ended in Whitney, but no specific route was given. Only five people participated in the first official Badwater Ultramarathon. The first few years were similar, but more and more people began participating and spectating at the event. Soon, a formal route was made for runners to follow.

During the race, conditions are brutal. There are few other living souls near you. The only people you would see are your race crew and maybe another runner. Otherwise, its dry, extremely hot, and takes more and more out of you for every step.

Today, Badwater is a goal for many serious ultrarunners. It is one of the most physically and mentally challenging races that a person can participate in. Usually 70-80 people participate, with a 20-40 percent rate of people who drop out. There has never been a fatality at Badwater, which is impressive for the toughest race ever known to mankind.