In 2021, Join Us for a Brand New Vision of Stage Racing in the Republic of Artsakh!

(PLEASE scroll down and read this entire page, including the ENTRY FEES & REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICIES listed at the bottom.)

In 2021, AdventureCORPS® - producers of the world-wide series of BADWATER® running races - will host a six-day, point-to-point, 160-mile (260km) trail running stage race in the Republic of Artsakh, the democratic, Christian, Armenian homeland located just east of Armenia itself.

Formerly known as Nagorno-Karabakh during the Soviet era, this is a fascinating, wonderful country that few people have even heard of, and even less have visited. We aim to change both of those facts by bringing runners from all over the world to Artsakh! In 2021, we hope to have 50 runners representing at least ten different countries participating. Will YOU join us for the first running race ever held in Artsakh?

Entry in the 2021 Artsakh Ultra is open exclusively to experienced ultra runners who have officially completed, at the minimum, at least one 50-mile or longer running race. Experience running multi-day trail stage races is highly recommended, but not strictly required.

Artsakh Ultra is, effectively, an invitational event. As such, the organizers of Artsakh Ultra reserve the right to refuse entry to any person they deem incapable of completing the event or not suitable - in any manner - for the event. This includes the right to cancel the entry of anyone already registered.

The race will be organized in a “stage race” format, in which runners will run a certain section of the Janapar Trail each day. Each day’s “stage” will be timed separately, and overall results will be calculated by adding all six days’ times together. The first stage will be 22mi (36km); the next four stages will vary from 26 to 34 miles (42 to 55km), while the final stage will be 16mi / 26km. See the event website for all the details.

Racer check-in and gear check will take place in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, while runners will enjoy restaurant dining that night and an overnight at an excellent Yerevan hotel. The next morning we will board buses for the three-hour drive across Armenia to our start line.

Beginning in the northeastern Armenian city of Vardenis at the start of the Janapar Trail, after 15 miles (24km) and at the top of a 9000-foot (2743m) pass, competitors in the Artsakh Ultra will leave Armenia and cross into the Republic of Artsakh. From here they will follow the Janapar Trail – with a few side diversions to see ancient sites – and transect the majority of this magnificent country. The six nights on the trail will include tent camping the first three nights and hotel stays the final three nights.

Because we want you to focus on the running and the overall experience, luggage transport will be provided each day.  Also, all breakfast and most dinner meals will be provided. (Runners will provide their own energy food while running, and will be on their own for restaurant dining on two nights: in Vank and Stepanakert.)

While the route will be incredibly beautiful and challenging, the race itself will also be a culturally immersive experience. Each day’s route will pass through one or more villages, while the overnights will be in or near villages and cities. Runners will eat the local, super healthy, incredibly fresh food. They will enjoy Armenian music, dance, and culture. Along the way, the runners will visit – sometimes “off the clock” – 1000-year-old Armenian churches, monasteries, and archaeological sites. Also, other than the race director, the entire race staff will be Armenians. And while each competitor will run as part of an international field of runners, they will be embraced, surrounded, and supported by the people of Artsakh and their Armenian food, music, language, and culture.

This event is supported by the Government of Artsakh and AdventureCORPS’ local charitable partner is Trails For Change NGO, the organization which is developing and signposting the trail.

Before submitting your Deposit (or the full Entry Fee), please study the "Entry & Support" section of our website and the Frequently Asked Questions section, as well as the "Terms of Use / Disaster Policy" so you are absolutely clear about the overall event, and specifically what is - and isn't - included in your entry fee and what the expectations are for the event.

ENTRY FEES & REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICIES

The $2900 early entry fee goes up to the standard $3200 entry fee on March 1, 2021. 

A $1000 deposit will hold your place in the event (and locks in your entry fee of either $2900 or $3200); the remaining balance is due by June 1 and may be paid via this page, or via PayPal or check.

Entry fees and deposits are strictly non-transferable.

Event Cancellation / Entrant Withdrawal: If canceling this event becomes necessary, such as because of pandemic, act of god, act of terrorism, travel bans, or other reason beyond our control - OR if the entrant chooses to withdraw - the following refund policies will be strictly followed:

Event Cancelled or Runner Withdraws before June 1: Refund less $500.

Event Cancelled or Runner Withdraws between June 1 and July 31: Refund less $1000.

Event Cancelled or Runner Withdraws between August 1 and September 4: No refund. 

NOTE: We have special pricing for Armenian citizens who reside in Artsakh or Armenia full-time; please contact us to inquire.