Ultra-Trail Kuršių Nerija 2026 (104+ km)

 This year, my main goal at Kuršių Nerija 104+ km was a little different from usual. Finishing time was not a priority. The main objective was to complete the distance while minimizing muscular fatigue, finding the right balance in nutrition, and avoiding any stomach problems throughout the race. All of this was part of my preparation for the next big challenge: Lavaredo Ultra Trail 120 km in Italy next year.

 The race started at 8:00 in the morning, just as the sun was rising over Nida. Starting from the top of the dune, we headed straight into the first two kilometers of sandy trails, surrounded by mesmerizing views of the Curonian Spit waking up to a new day...

  The soft morning light, the dunes and the Baltic landscape made for a beautiful beginning to a 104+ km journey. It was one of those starts when you want to slow down for a moment and take in the scenery before settling into the long hours ahead...

  To avoid getting distracted by pace and running faster than necessary, I changed my watch settings. I kept only heart rate, time and distance on the display and changed the alerts from every kilometre to every 10 km. The idea was to run as comfortably as possible, avoid pushing too hard, and preserve my legs for as long as I could. I didn't check my pace or react to the numbers on my watch — I just ran, focusing on how my body felt. As a result, I managed to maintain a fairly even pace throughout the distance, without any major slowdown towards the end.

  This time, I wanted to experiment with different types of food in addition to my usual energy drink. My basic fueling strategy was simple: 150 g of maltodextrin mixed with 500 ml of water every three hours. At every aid station, I took a few pieces of banana and orange with me for the next section. I also ate a piece of banana before each sip of my energy drink to help my stomach tolerate it better.At three aid stations, Diana, my main personal support throughout the race and life, handed me a boiled potato. It worked really well, too...

  After 70 km, I added Red Bull, followed by a caffeine gel after 83 km. Everything went down well, and most importantly, I had absolutely no stomach discomfort throughout the race.

  My finishing time was 10:33, 23 minutes faster than my previous result on this distance in 2024. That was a nice bonus, even though improving my time was not a goal this year.

  Another objective was to test the Altra Timp 6, the shoes I plan to use for Lavaredo 120. This race gave me an opportunity to test them over a long distance in real trail conditions. The specific demands of running on sand caused a few small blisters, but I experienced no discomfort from the shoes during the race itself.

 Overall, the race gave me exactly what I was looking for: an opportunity to test my nutrition strategy, check my equipment, and practise running a long distance without chasing a particular pace.

   The day after the race, we continued our little tradition of heading to the seashore, enjoying the sea and the golden colours of autumn while reflecting on the race. This time, we stayed in Juodkrantė, where we spent two nights before and after the race in an apartment kindly offered by my colleague from work. From the town, it was a 1.5 km walk to the sea along a path through the forest.

  Another Kuršių Nerija ultra completed, with a result better than last year and plenty of useful experience for Lavaredo 120. The main takeaway was that a controlled pace, well-tested nutrition and comfortable equipment can make a real difference over such a long distance. And of course, having my wife by my side makes all of this more meaningful. It’s not just about the nutrition she provides at the aid stations, but also the encouragement, the familiar face waiting along the course, and knowing there is someone sharing the experience with you. It makes a difference, especially during the long hours of an ultra...