Two years ago, filmmaker Barry Walton learned of Rajat Chauhan, an Indian sports medicine physician and runner, and his race, La Ultra – The High. Chauhan was determined to establish the toughest and highest altitude ultra race in the world. Walton was determined to make a film about it.

Since 2012, Walton has been researching, filming, traveling to India, and now editing, structuring and working on getting his film finalized and ready for viewing. He has set up a Kickstarter fund raising campaign with the goal of raising $5,000 in 40 days in order to help with recreations, further interviews and editing. If he falls short of his goal he will not receive a cent. If he succeeds, his film is expected to be ready later this year.

La Ultra is a 222km (137 miles) race which takes place in Northern India at an average elevation between 12,000-14,000 feet above sea level. The race is invite-only and open to 20 runners. There are certain criteria runners should have under their belt to be considered for this race such as Western States, Badwater, or a Leadville 100 completion. Other races include Spartathlon, The Yukon Arctic Ultra and Ultra Trail Du Mont-Blanc, among others. Each runners as 60 hours to complete this grueling course, battling an oxygen content that is around 66% less than at sea level.

Play the video (above) to learn more about the project and the race.

The High (official website)
La Ultra – The High (race website)

Race Reports from past participants:

Molly Sheridan
Mark Cockbain

The course record is held by Sharon Gayter (UK): 37hr 34min 37sec

Ray sanchez (US), 2011