Ep 19. The Coolest Endurance Races

The Coolest Places on Earth season 1 episode 19 titled "The Coolest Endurance Races" takes viewers around the world to explore some of the most extreme and unique endurance races. Travel host, Jeremy, takes viewers on an adrenaline-fueled journey through some of the toughest races in various destinations, showcasing the stunning scenery and culture of each race location.

The episode begins with a visit to the Sahara Desert, where the Marathon des Sables takes place. Jeremy introduces viewers to some of the runners who have come from all over the world to tackle the grueling 156-mile long race in extreme heat and sandy terrain over six days. The runners must carry their own food and supplies for the duration of the race, making it one of the most challenging endurance races on the planet.

Next up is the North Pole Marathon, held on the frozen Arctic Ocean. Jeremy showcases the hardy group of runners who brave the extreme cold and ice to run the marathon at -30°C temperatures. The unique race route involves running 10 laps of a course around the North Pole, passing by the makeshift basecamp where runners stay during the event.

The third endurance race featured in the episode is the Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, USA, regarded by many as the toughest foot race in the world. Jeremy introduces viewers to the eccentric creator of the race, Gary Cantrell, who explains the origin and rules of the Barkley Marathons. The competitors have 60 hours to complete five loops of the 20-mile course through thick forest and over steep mountains, with no markings and minimal aid, and only ten runners have ever completed the challenge. This part of the episode also showcases the unique personality of the race and its participants, making for compelling viewing.

The fourth endurance race showcased is the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, a grueling triathlon consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon (26.2 miles) to top it off. Jeremy gets up close and personal with some of the most elite and committed athletes in the world, watching as they push their limits to complete the race. The stunning natural scenery of Hawaii provides a beautiful backdrop to the race, making it one of the most picturesque endurance races on the planet.

The last race showcased in the episode is the Dragon's Back Race held in Wales, UK. This challenging five-day race takes competitors on a 300km (190-mile) journey along the mountainous spine of Wales. Jeremy is on hand to witness the spectacular terrain and beautiful scenery as runners navigate through difficult and challenging terrain, proving once again that Wales is one of the most picturesque places in the world.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of each race location, providing a glimpse into the culture, people, and natural beauty of each location. Jeremy's enthusiastic and engaging hosting style keeps viewers captivated and helps to showcase the incredible challenge, determination, and dedication of each of the participants.

All in all, "The Coolest Endurance Races" episode of The Coolest Places on Earth season 1 is a thrilling, adrenaline-fueled adventure that takes viewers on a global journey through some of the world's toughest and most unique endurance races. From the Sahara Desert to the Arctic Ocean, and from Wales to Hawaii, this episode showcases the beauty and majesty of these races, while also highlighting the incredible resilience and commitment of the athletes who take them on.