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About event

August 22-23, 2026


Ultramarathon
Kodar Ridge Chara Sands Life Journey Race

 

The Running Heroes Russia team invites athletes to go on a trail expedition, which will definitely be remembered for a lifetime!

The Kodar Ridge Chara Sands Life Journey Race will take place in the Trans-Baikal Territory, across the northernmost sand desert in the world - the Chara Sands. The Chara Sands, spread out in the taiga among lakes and swamps, will transport athletes to the universe of Frank Herbert's "Dune". Medals made of charoite, a unique mineral that is found nowhere else, will add to the atmosphere of the race.

 

Race distances: 120, 70, 50 and 30 kilometers are laid out from Staraya Chara and back in such a way that athletes can fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the harsh northern desert and see the maximum of its beauty. 650 participants, of which 100 are on the 120 km distance.

Registration
Dear athletes!
Registration for the Kodar Ridge Chara Sands Life Journey race is closed upon reaching the participant limit!
We are waiting for you on a trail expedition to the northernmost desert on planet Earth!
It will be an incredible journey. See you in August in Chara!

For any questions, please contact us by email: info@goldenultra.ru
Photo & Video
Information

Event Date: August 22-23, 2026

August 22, 2026

10:00 - Start for 120m distance participants

August 23, 2026

06:00 - Start for 70m and 50m distance participants

09:00 - Start for 30m distance participants

16:00 - Finish line closes for 30m and 120m distance participants

18:00 - Finish line closes for 50m distance participants

20:00 - Finish line closes for 70m distance participants


Venue:

  • Distribution of bib's to registered participants - 56.795665, 118.271679 Hockey rink (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai).
  • Start for participants in the 120 and 30 distances - 56.89216 118.25441 (Chara village, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai). Finish - 56.79111 118.27117 Stadium (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai).
  • Start and finish for participants in the 70 and 50 distances - 56.79111 118.27117 Stadium (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai).

Distances:

120 - 127 km; Elevation gain 2,447 m;

70 - 67.6 km; Elevation gain 550 m;

50 - 57.6 km; Elevation gain 312 m;

30 - 30.3 km. Elevation gain: 216 m;


Distance limit:

120 - 30 hours

70 - 14 hours

50 - 12 hours

30 - 7 hours

Participants aged 18 and older are eligible to participate in the 120, 70, 50, and 30 distances.

Participant age is determined based on the actual event date—August 22–23, 2026.

August 21, 2026

2:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Distribution of start numbers to registered participants

2:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Equipment check for participants of all distances

14:00 - 18:00

Reception of supplies for 120 distance participants

18:00

Briefing for 120 distance participants

22.08.2026

09:00 - 10:00

Changing room and Storage lockers for participants in the 120m distance (Chara village)

10:00

Start for participants in the 120m distance (Chara village)

11:00 - 16:00

Distribution of start numbers to registered participants

19:00

Briefing for participants in the 70m, 50m, 30

August 23, 2026

05:00 - 20:00

Start/Finish Campus, Changing Rooms, and Storage Room Opening Hours

06:00

Start for 70m and 50m distance participants

08:00 - 09:00

Changing room and storage locker opening hours for participants in the 30-meter race (Chara village)

09:00

Start for participants in the 30-meter race (Chara village)

15:00

Award ceremony for winners of the 30-meter, 50-meter, 70-meter, and 120-meter races

16:00

Finish line closes for 30m and 120m distance runners

18:00

Finish line closes for 50m distance runners

20:00

Finish line closes for 70m distance runners

 

Electronic registration of participants is available on the website www.goldenultra.ru in the participant's personal account from 12:00 July 7, 2025 to 12:00 June 20, 2026.


The registration fee is:

120, 70, 50, 30 - 60,000 rubles.


The registration fee for legal entities and individual entrepreneurs is:

120, 70, 50, 30 - 72,000 rubles.


Re-registration

Re-registration to another person and change of distance are made in the participant's personal account before 12:00 June 20, 2026. Re-registration and distance changes are subject to a fee of 1,000 rubles.

Changing the distance after receiving a start number will cost 1,000 rubles.


Qualification requirements for 120 km distance participants

  • at least two finishes at distances of 100 km or more. Courses that meet one of the criteria:

- a course with 3-4 ITRA points (top 50% of finishers);

- a course with at least 5 ITRA points;

  • Finishes at the following distances also count*:

- Mad Fox Ultra K70 (top 30% of finishers);

- White Bride Ultra Gelendzhik M70 (top 30% of finishers);

- Vottovaara Mountain Race 50 miles (top 30% of finishers);

* Only one of the listed distances can be used for qualification, as an alternative to the 100 km finish.

Results from competitions held between 2024 and 2026 are accepted for qualification. year.

The participant's starter pack includes:

  • a start number with a timing chip;
  • a sticker for the storage locker;
  • gifts from the organizing committee and event partners.

Participants' start numbers will be distributed at: 56.795665, 118.271679 Hockey Court (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai).

  • August 21, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
  • August 22, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Attention! Starting numbers will not be issued after 7:00 PM!

 

Conditions for obtaining a starting number

To obtain a starting number, a participant will need:

  • original identification document;
  • original medical certificate;
  • insurance policy.

Participants will not be issued starting numbers by proxy.

Insurance Policy
Athletes are permitted to participate in the competition with an accident and illness insurance policy. Insurance terms:

  • minimum insured amount of 300,000 rubles;
  • applies to the date(s) of the race;
  • suitable for running/trail running;
  • suitable for running/trail running competitions.

Medical certificate

  • issued by an institution licensed to carry out medical activities;
  • contains the seal of the medical institution, the signature and seal of the physician, the date of issue, and the full name. participant;
  • contains a conclusion that the participant is permitted to participate in running/trail running events of the same or greater distance;
  • must be completed using the form in Appendix No. 2 to Order No. 1144n of the Russian Ministry of Health dated October 23, 2020 (as amended on September 26, 2023) or confirm that the participant is in health group 1 or 2;
  • valid on the day of the race. The certificate is valid for the period specified therein, but no more than 1 year from the date of issue;
  • the provided certificate will not be returned upon receipt of the start number. A photocopy of the medical certificate will only be accepted upon presentation of the original.

Participants of the Kodar Ridge Chara Sands trail expedition have several accommodation options at the starting point:


1) Up until July 15th, both participants and their supporters can purchase accommodation on the trail runner train, which will be parked at Novaya Chara station from 10:55 AM on August 21st to 11:00 PM on August 23rd (local time).

If you purchased a train ticket to board at Neryungri station, you do not need to purchase additional accommodation on the train.


2) Up until July 15th, anyone can register for accommodation at the free tent camp in the village of Novaya Chara.

Location of the tent camp: Novaya Chara village, coordinates: 56.789400, 118.274291.

Walking distance to the start of the 70m and 50m non-travel distances, the finish of all distances, and the bib number distribution area.

There is a small paved parking lot nearby.


Services at the campground:

  • Restrooms.
  • You can charge your electronic devices and boil your own water in the "Campground Reception" tent.
  • There are no showers at the campground. Showers and several other permanent restrooms are located a short walk away.
  • Camping stoves are permitted for cooking, but open fires are prohibited. There are also cafes offering set lunches and shops, including prepared food, within walking distance.

Please note that tent rentals are not available; guests must bring their own tents.

To reserve a spot, please go to the "Services" section of your personal account my.goldenultra.ru, "Accommodation at Kodar Ridge Chara Sands", "Accommodation for adults", and "Accommodation in a tent camp".

Mandatory Equipment for Participants of the 120


* The contents of the food supply are strictly regulated and cannot be expanded with additional equipment. There are restrictions on the volume of the food supply that can be submitted.

 

1. Each food package must be labeled with the participant's number. Mixtures - isotonic powders or tablets to be diluted with water (water is provided at CP3). If markings are missing, the participant will receive a penalty in the form of an additional time added to the final result (+30 minutes).

2. The track may be updated the day before the start; information about the track update will be posted on the official race information channels.

  1. The organizers' phone number is in the contact list (+7 926 680 31 69).
  2. The knife meets the following criteria:

- must not have an exposed blade when carried;

- the blade must be sharp enough to cut 10 mm thick rope and textile materials;

- blade length must be at least 3 cm;

- material (optional): steel, ceramic, Titanium, alloy.

5. Required first aid kit contents:

  • A bandage no less than 10 cm x 5 m (>= 1 pc);
  • Adhesive plaster roll (3 x 300 cm);
  • Hemostatic sponge 50 x 50 mm (>= 2 pcs);
  • Sterile wipes no less than 75 x 75 mm (>= 3 pcs);
  • Personal medications (if necessary).
  1. Flashlight requirements:
  • Minimum (IPX2): The flashlight will withstand light drizzle;
  • Expected level (IPX4): The flashlight should operate reliably in heavy rain, snow, and high humidity conditions. It can safely get wet and run with it in bad weather.

If the flashlight can withstand the required runtime, then an additional set of batteries/rechargeable battery is not required, even if the device is charged via a cable. Otherwise, backup power sources must be provided (additional testing on the trail is possible).

  1. Most of the trail runs through terrain requiring moderate tread, but in areas near Marble Gorge and the Marmot Lair, there are areas with large, slippery rocks.
  2. Thermal pants can be replaced with insulated tights.
  3. Water resistance rating >=10000 mm (or membrane >=2.5L), taped seams, hood on the jacket. Alternatively, you can wear rain pants and a rain jacket (PVC, polyethylene, nylon, etc.). Be sure to take the time to adjust your gear so it doesn't restrict your movement and isn't too loose, catching on tree branches or interfering with your movement.
  4. A cup is provided by the organizer in the start pack.
  5. A GPS tracker is mandatory equipment for athletes in the 120 km distance. A signed receipt is required (you are responsible for loss or non-return). The tracker is given to the athlete at the start pack distribution area. WITHOUT A GPS TRACKER, THE PARTICIPANT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO THE START!
  6. Any suitable socks, either running socks to change from wet to dry, or cotton socks in case of evacuation.
  7. Trail running shoes in storage or to change to more comfortable or dry ones in case of evacuation.

 

The list of mandatory equipment is subject to change depending on weather conditions!

** Refusal, ignoring inspection, failure to follow the referee's instructions, or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in disqualification!

  

Mandatory equipment for participants of the course 70

 

1. Each food package must be labeled with the participant's number. If markings are missing, the participant will receive a penalty of additional time added to the final result (+30 minutes).

2. The track may be updated the day before the start; information about the track update will be posted on the official race information channels.

  1. The organizers' phone number is in the contact list (+7 926 680 31 69).
  2. The knife meets the following criteria:

- must not have an exposed blade when carried;

- the blade must be sharp enough to cut 10 mm thick rope and textile materials;

- blade length at least 3 cm;

- material (optional): steel, ceramic, titanium, alloy.

5. Mandatory content First aid kits:

  • Bandage no less than 10 cm x 5 m (>= 1 pc);
  • Adhesive plaster roll (3 x 300 cm);
  • Hemostatic sponge 50 x 50 mm (>= 2 pcs);
  • Sterile wipes no less than 75 x 75 mm (>= 3 pcs);
  • Personal medications (if necessary).
  1. Flashlight requirements:
  • Minimum (IPX2): Flashlight will withstand light drizzle;

If the flashlight can withstand the required runtime, then an additional set of batteries/rechargeable battery is not required, even if the device is charged via a cable. Otherwise, backup power sources must be provided (additional testing on the trail is possible).

  1. Most of the trail runs through terrain requiring moderate tread.
  2. Thermal pants can be replaced with insulated tights.
  3. Water resistance rating >=10000 mm (or membrane >=2.5L), taped seams, hood on the jacket. Rain pants and a rain jacket (PVC, polyethylene, nylon, etc.) can be used as an alternative. Be sure to take the time to adjust the gear so it doesn't restrict movement and isn't too loose, causing it to snag on tree branches or impede your movement.
  4. The cup is provided by the organizer in the starter pack.

 

The list of mandatory equipment is subject to change depending on weather conditions!

** Refusal, ignoring inspection, failure to follow the referee's instructions, or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in disqualification!

 

 Mandatory equipment for participants in the 50m distance

 

1. Each food package must be labeled with the participant's number. If markings are missing, the participant will receive a penalty of additional time added to the final result (+30 minutes).

2. The track may be updated the day before the start; information about the track update will be posted on the official race information channels.

  1. The organizers' phone number is in the contact list (+7 926 680 31 69).
  2. The knife meets the following criteria:

- must not have an exposed blade when carried;

- the blade must be sharp enough to cut 10 mm thick rope and textile materials;

- blade length at least 3 cm;

- material (optional): steel, ceramic, titanium, alloy.

5. Mandatory content First aid kits:

  • A bandage no less than 10 cm x 5 m (>= 1 pc);
  • Adhesive plaster roll (3 x 300 cm);
  • Hemostatic sponge 50 x 50 mm (>= 2 pcs);
  • Sterile wipes no less than 75 x 75 mm (>= 3 pcs);
  • Personal medications (if necessary).
  1. Water resistance >= 10000 mm (or membrane >= 2.5L), taped seams, jacket with a hood. Alternatively, pants and a raincoat (PVC, polyethylene, nylon, etc.) can be used. Be sure to take the time to fit your gear so that it doesn't restrict your movement or is too loose to catch on tree branches or hinder your movement.
  2. The cup is provided by the organizer in the starter pack.

 

The list of mandatory equipment is subject to change depending on weather conditions!

** Refusal, ignoring inspection, failure to follow the referee's instructions, or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in disqualification!

  

Mandatory equipment for participants of the 30

 

Each food package must be labeled with the participant's number. If markings are missing, the participant will receive a penalty of additional time added to their final result (+30 minutes).

1. The track may be updated the day before the start; information about the track update will be posted on the official race information channels.

  1. The organizer's phone number is in the contact list (+7 926 680 31 69).
  2. The cup is provided by the organizer in the starter pack.

 

The list of mandatory equipment may be changed depending on weather conditions!

** Refusal, ignoring inspection, failure to follow the judge's instructions, or unsportsmanlike behavior will result in disqualification!

 

Recommended equipment for everyone Participants

 

* If a participant decides to bring trekking poles with them on the route, they are required to carry the equipment throughout the entire race (leaving equipment in the drop-off area is PROHIBITED - a 1-hour penalty). 

 

Please note: the items included in the mandatory equipment list are basic clothing and equipment that each trail runner should select in accordance with their skills. This means Provides improved safety and efficiency.

At the finish line, the overall leaders may undergo a re-check of their mandatory equipment.









Awarding takes place for 1st through 3rd place men and women in the overall championship for each distance. Participants who take the top spots are awarded valuable prizes and gifts.


Valuable prizes are also awarded to athletes who take 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places in their age groups:

  • 18-29 years old;
  • 30-39 years old;
  • 40-49 years old;
  • 50-59 years old;
  • 60-69 years old;
  • 70 years and older;

Each finisher in the 120, 70, 50, and 30 distances receives official ITRA points. 120 finishers are awarded 4 ITRA points, 70 finishers 2 points, 50 finishers 2 points, and 30 finishers 1 point.

A branded train traveling along the Neryungri - Chara - Neryungri route.
The cost of travel and accommodation on the train for participants and accompanying persons is 60,000 rubles. Payment is collected in your personal account on the official website of the event goldenultra.ru. Transfer requests are accepted until July 1, 2026.

There: departs from Neryungri station on August 20, 2026, at 4:00 PM, arrives at Novaya Chara station on August 21, 2026, at 10:55 AM (local time).
Return: departs from Novaya Chara station on August 23, 2026, at 11:00 PM, arrives at Neryungri station on August 24, 2026, at 10:18 PM (local time).

Important!

Athletes are entitled to an extended stay and accommodation on the train at the station. Neryungri until 10:40 on August 25, 2026 (local time).

That is, at Neryungri station, passengers can stay on the train until the end of the stop (until 10:40 on August 25), but according to Russian Railways rules, they can only leave the carriage once, meaning that a participant, having left the carriage, will not be able to return back.

 

Transfer for participants in the 120 distance

(Provided free of charge, only for event participants).

August 22, 2026
08:30
Buses depart from Central Square 56.798398, 118.276255 (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai) to the village. Chara

 

Transfer for participants in the 30-mile race

(Provided free of charge, for event participants only).

August 23, 2026
07:30
Buses depart from Central Square 56.798398, 118.276255 (Novaya Chara, Kalarsky Municipal District, Zabaykalsky Krai) to the village of Chara

We are confident that the Running Heroes Russia team's competitions can provide unforgettable emotions and an incredible boost of energy, even if you don't run any of the distances.

Anyone who has ever volunteered at our events and supported the athletes on the track and in the start/finish town will confirm the truth of this statement.

We invite you to join our team and experience the festive atmosphere from the inside!

If you want to stay up to date with our news and be the first to know about the start of recruitment for volunteers for one of our events, then subscribe to our Telegram channel https://t.me/rhrvolunteers and stay tuned for updates. The link to the application form for those wishing to join the team will be open 1.5-2 months before the event. Start.

For any questions about volunteering with our team, please email us at volunteer@goldenultra.ru. We are available weekdays! We'd be delighted to welcome you to our ranks. See you soon at the start!

Sponsors and partners
Strategic partner
РЖД_CHARA
General partner
Удоканская Медь
Национальный Парк Кодар
Official partners
Бионова
МосЧайТорг
Partners
Solopharm
Elentra Nutrition
ICON SCEEN
Repharm
Tasty Coffee
GORJI ION
SQUEEZY
Katodrinks
Геркулес
Суперсуп
Fitness shock
Guide by
Information partner
Чемпионат
Photo partner
MySportPhoto
Contacts

OOO 'Golden Ring Ultra Trail',   OGRN: 1207700444280, INN: 9724029321