The second Antarctic Ice Marathon & 100k races will take place on December 12th and 15th, respectively, in the interior of the frozen continent.

The Ice Marathon races are the only running events held within the Antarctic Circle and are certified by the Association of International Marathons and Road Races (AIMS). At the race location of 80 Degrees South, there will be no penguins, birds, plants or other wildlife as the harsh environment cannot sustain any existence so far inland.

This season’s competitors will include two people intent on setting Guinness World Records for the shortest duration to complete a marathon on all seven continents. Tim Harris (Great Britain) and Noelle Sheridan (USA) both hope to complete their task on the white continent in the male and female categories, respectively. Among the other entrants are former participants in the Antarctic Ice Marathon’s sister race – the North Pole Marathon. Mike Pierce (USA) returns for his second Antarctic Ice Marathon, having also run the first event in January of this year.

Athletes will be greeted by breathtaking scenery, 24 hours of daylight, guaranteed sub-zero temperatures and snow and ice throughout the 26.2-mile circuit. The sound of katabatic winds will be the only noise to interrupt the silence of the great white expanse. Those not content with completing the feature 26.2-mile distance will also have an option to run 100k, which is the equivalent of almost 10% of the distance to the South Pole. A half-marathon is additionally on offer during the scheduled eight-day trip to the last continent.

Competitors will be flown by private jet from Punta Arenas, Chile, to the race location at Patriot Hills, Antarctica. The entry fee of $15,000 includes the return flight, accommodation and food for the entire stay, and entry to all races of choice. Highly coveted Kobold expedition watches will be on offer to the overall winners of the marathon & 100k events.

To register, or to obtain more information, images and video, see www.icemarathon.com