Bison Ultra 2023 is postponed to 10-Sep-2023, Sunday. Write to coachkay@kfita.in for group registrations and any queries.

4th Edition

Bison Ultra | 10 Sep, 2023 | SUN

BECOME #ULTRAMALAIVASI

About (1)

Bison Ultra is still a small boutique and an exclusive event, and we may consider the ITRA certification in the future.

Race Categories (2)

OOTYULTRA is happy to allow you to make the changes to your race category.

Upgrading to a higher distance

  • You must qualify for the higher race category
  • You will have to pay the difference amount
  • An upgraded race category can be further upgraded (ex. from 15k -> 30k -> 60k) provided you have the right qualification credentials

downgrading to a lower distance

  • If you have already qualified to run the registered category, you can downgrade to a lower distance category
  • Your downgraded category can’t be reversed. Ex. you can’t move from 60k -> 30k and then request to move back to 60k. In such situation you have to follow the upgrade process once again by paying the difference amount in the ticket.

The deadline for changing your race category will be 1st March

Write to info@ootyultra.com from your registered email address with the description of the changes and we will update your records.

Route, fuel & hydration (2)

The aid stations will be spaced approximately 3-4 km apart. View the Route and Elevation page for the map and the locations of the aid stations.

Visit the individual category pages to learn more.

EXPO & pre-OOTYULTRA day (3)

On the expo night, you have the option to have a high-carb vegetarian dinner best suited to fuel your OOTYULTRA and you have an option to pre-book the dinner along with the registration.

The ultramarathon runners-friendly buffet dinner will be served at the YWCA Anandagiri. You must show a copy of your event ticket with the payment reference for the buffet dinner to get the dinner.

You can deposit your baggage with change-over clothes at the start line.

Your baggage will be identified against your bib number.

Your baggage will be brought to the finish line and you can collect them by showing your race bib.

You are requested not to keep any valuables in your baggage.

Important Dates (4)

The ticket transfer window is a time period when Ootyultra runners are allowed to make the following changes without any additional charges

  • Transfer the ticket to another runner. 60k & 90k runners must meet the event qualification requirments
  • Upgrade or downgrade their tickets to different categories while respecting the qualification requirements

Write to info@ootyultra.com from your registered email address to make use of this facility.

The actual dates ticket transfer window is from 1-Nov to 10-Mar. Post this period additional charges may be applicable depending on the nature of the change requested.

28 February, or whenever the entry limit is reached.

We will open the Charity registrations between 1-Mar to 10-Mar

The Sixth edition of OOTYULTRA 2023 is scheduled for 2-Apr-2022, Sunday

Edition #YearDate90k runners60k runners30k runners15k runners
01First Edition – 201829-Apr, Sunday67100100
02Second Edition – 201907-Apr, Sunday110300300
03The 3rd edition planned on 05-Ap, Sunday was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic05-Apr, Sunday8396366152
044th edition – The Spirit of #ultramalaivasi virtual run1-Apr to 4-Apr 20211265210282

At the START (4)

The scheduled start time for the 90k will be 6.00 am.

The scheduled start time for the 60k, 30k & 15k will be 6.30 am.

You can deposit your baggage with change-over clothes at the start line.

Your baggage will be identified against your bib number.

Your baggage will be brought to the finish line and you can collect them by showing your race bib.

You are requested not to keep any valuables in your baggage.

Starting point: Last Shola Cottage

Finish point: Heavens Ledge Campsite

Runners participating in Bison Ultra will be staying in the following properties

  1. Last Shola Cottage
  2. Heavens Ledge Campsite – in tents
  3. Srinivasa Lodge & Resorts

Yes, our timing partner will provide this support. There will be two timing mats, one at the start and one at the finish point for all categories of runners.

  • The finish point timing mat will also serve as a intermediate timing mat at the 15k, 30k & 60k for the 90k runners
  • The finish point timing mat will also serve as a intermediate timing mat at the 15k & 30k for the 60k runners
  • The finish point timing mat will also serve as a intermediate timing mat at the 15k for the 30k runners.

At the FINISH (4)

There will be no prize money for the podium finishers. However, our sponsors and partners may give away some goodies to the top finishers.

Starting point: YWCA Anandagiri

Finish point: Government Tea Park, Battarkambai) ~8.3 km away from the start

Shuttle buses will take you back to Ooty town after your run.

Yes, all finishers (within the cut-off) will receive an update to view and download the PDF copy of your Bison Ultra finisher certificate after 5 days of completion.

No, your time is recorded manually at the check points and at the finish.

Travel & Accommodation (4)

You can reach Yercaud by road. If you plan to fly, the nearest airports are Coimbatore (230 km away), and you must travel by road.

See the travel section for more information.

  • Go for a ride around the loop road (~36 km) is a beautiful scenic route where you can explore the quiet surroundings of Yercaud Hill Station.
  • There are options available for you to do Adventure Sports at multiple places (activities like high rope and zip line)
  • A couple of places offer you ATV (All Terrain Vehicle ride experiences)
  • Enjoy the boat house right next to the Yercaud 5 roads junction
  • The month of April is the most amazing time to visit Ooty. It is also the beginning of the summer season and many tourists flock that time.
  • Min 12 Deg. C and max 23 deg. C. Weather with a feel of 28 deg. C.
  • Check the online weather bulletins for information on latest weather info in Ooty around Race Day

To maintain the exclusivity of Bison Ultra runners participating in Bison Ultra would have to choose accommodation from the following properties

  1. Last Shola Cottage
  2. Heavens Ledge Campsite – in tents
  3. Srinivasa Lodge & Resorts

Registration & cancellation (7)

Can I change my race category after registration?

OOTYULTRA is happy to allow you to make the changes to your race category.

Upgrading to a higher distance

  • You must qualify for the higher race category
  • You will have to pay the difference amount
  • An upgraded race category can be further upgraded (ex. from 15k -> 30k -> 60k) provided you have the right qualification credentials

downgrading to a lower distance

  • If you have already qualified to run the registered category, you can downgrade to a lower distance category
  • Your downgraded category can’t be reversed. Ex. you can’t move from 60k -> 30k and then request to move back to 60k. In such situation you have to follow the upgrade process once again by paying the difference amount in the ticket.

The deadline for changing your race category will be 1st March

Write to info@ootyultra.com from your registered email address with the description of the changes and we will update your records.

We regret to say that the group registration/bulk registration feature is currently not available

No other person can run with your BIB. However, you can transfer it officially to another qualified runner. Write to info@ootyultra.com if you need any further assistance.

The Bison Ultra route for all distances categories is measured using standard GPS watches and not accurate distances. Visit the individual run category pages listed below to know more about the accuracy of the route.

NOTE: With these distance inaccuracies in mind, we have carefully chosen the cut-off time to help most runners achieve their finish goals 50k and 25k categories. Runners are requested not to rely on their GPS markers but to follow the kilometre sign boards kept at an interval of 2 kilometres throughout the course

Your ticket is non-refundable. However, you can transfer it to another runner within the Ticket-Transfer window. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions to learn more.

Follow the registration page to learn more

The deadline for fixing any mistakes, changing any personal particulars, or even transferring your ticket to another qualified runner will be 1 of March

Write to info@ootyultra.com from your registered email address with the description of the changes and we will update your records.

Qualification (8)

Write to info@ootyultra.com with links to your Strava or Garmin online profile along with the following qualification run history.

  • You must submit a link your running record, with your Heart Rate information, to a half marathon distance completed within 3 hrs to qualify for OOTYULTRA 30k
  • You must submit a link your running record, with your Heart Rate information, to a full marathon distance completed within 5 hrs 50 min to qualify for OOTYULTRA 60k

Your qualification run must have been completed after 1-Aug

We may consider giving you entry if your records are satisfactory.  You will have to pay an additional fee of Rs. 500 + 18% GST for the manual review efforts, if we agree to provide you with an entry. This will be decided on a case-to-case basis.

We suggest you complete the manual review and receive a confirmation before you buy the entry ticket

Your registration money will not be refunded if you do not qualify or your category will be downgraded to 15k without any refund.

You can include your qualifying ultramarathon run after 1-Aug details, distance category, and finish times during your registration. You must have completed the ultramarathon distance within the official cut-off time specified by the race organizers. A DNF status is not accepted.

The 90k, 60k and 30k runners must complete the distance within the cut-off time in order to receive the personalized laser-cut medal at the finish.

The 90k runners will not be allowed to proceed to run if they arrive into the 60k & 30k checkpoint outside of the cut-off time set for 60k & 30k categories. You will be marked DNF (Did Not Finish) and no other category finisher medal will be awarded.

The 60k runners will not be allowed to proceed to run if they arrive into the 30k checkpoint line outside of the cut-off time set for 60k & 30k categories. You will be marked DNF and no other category finisher medal will be awarded.

All runners completing the race outside the cut-off time will be marked “outside the time limit” or a DNF status in the race results.

  • Must be 18 years old on the race day for the 90k
  • Must be 18 years old on the race day for the 60k
  • Must be 18 years old on the race day for the 30k
  • Must be 16 years old on the race day for the 15k

There is no cut-off time for the 15k runners.  However, the last mobile aid-station (approx. 12k) before the finish will be operational only for 2 hr 30 min.

  • This category is created to encourage first timers who are regularly running, active and fit
  • Must be capable of running or walking for 2-3 hrs continuously

The cut-off time to finish the 30k in 5 hrs 30 mins.  There is no cut-off at 15k for the 30k runners.

  • Half Marathon completed within 3 hr 00 min after 1-Aug.
  • An official event timing records MUST be submitted
  • The timing records can be submitted/updated after the registration is done but before 1-Mar
  • Alternatively, you can submit your full marathon or an ultramarathon race, or any ultramarathon, as a qualification and must be completed after 1-Aug. You must have officially completed the distance within the cut-off time specified by the race organizer
  • Your qualification half marathon will not be accepted if the time is not within 3 hr 00 min. Alternatively, you can submit a full marathon finished within the cut-off time specified by the marathon organizers (from your qualification race).

All your qualification races must have been run after 1-Aug. If you decide to run your qualification race after registering for the OOTYULTRA, you are allowed to submit the qualification race records on or before 1-Mar. We strongly recommend you send us the qualification race information as soon as possible and avoid the automatic downgrading of your category to 15k.

IMPORTANT –> Your registration will not be confirmed if your timing qualifications do not meet the standards. No refund will be provided if you do not qualify. All the participants must be fit, healthy, and must be running regularly.

The cut-off time to finish the 60k is 10 hr 30 min to finish and 5 hr 30 mins at 30k.  There is no cut-off at the 15k for the 60k runners.

  • A minimum of one timed Full Marathon distance (42.2 km) completed after 1-Aug within 5 hr 50 min and the timing record MUST be submitted.  Only for the Ootyultra 2022 edition we will accept virtual run records – you must submit the GPS data recorded during the run.
  • Alternatively, you can submit your Ultramarathon race, any distance run above 50km, as a qualification and must be completed after 1-Aug. You must have officially completed the 50k run within the cut-off time specified by the race organizer.
  • Your qualification full marathon will not be accepted if the time is not within 5 hr 50 min.

All your qualification races must have been run after 1-Aug. If you decide to run your qualification race after registering for the OOTYULTRA, you are allowed to submit the qualification race records on or before 10-Mar. We strongly recommend you send us the qualification race information as soon as possible and avoid the automatic downgrading of your category to 30k.

IMPORTANT –> Your registration will not be confirmed if your timing qualifications do not meet the standards. No refund will be provided if you do not qualify. All the participants must be fit, healthy, and must be running regularly.

OOTYULTRA is a tough race due to its steep climbs and downhill terrain. Added this challenge you will be facing the sharp winter month sun during the day time. Most first-time runners may find it extremely difficult to run. Hill running, in general, can be very technical and challenging but through experience one can gain mastery. Considering the above, OOTYULTRA has set minimum qualification conditions for participation.

Cut-off time

Distance15k30k60k80k90k – finish
Time from the start2:00:00*4:10:00*8:45:0010:50:0011:59:59
* Suggested time to target – official cut-off starts from 60k onwards
  • This event category is only by invitation
  • Runners who have completed the past editions (this is subject to change, watch the official qualification announcements after the registration opens) of OOTYULTRA in sub 7 hr 45 min directly qualify
  • Other ultra runners who are interested must submit the form published on the 90k category information page with your expression of interest to run while attaching your ultramarathon credentials.

All your qualification races must have been run in the last year. If you decide to run your qualification race after registering for the OOTYULTRA, you are allowed to submit the qualification race records on or before 1-Mar. 

IMPORTANT –> Your registration will not be confirmed if your timing qualifications do not meet the standards. No refund will be provided if you do not qualify.

All the participants must be fit, and healthy, and must be running regularly.

  • Having executed the first two editions with only 45 runners, Bison Ultra 2023 will be limited to 130 runners.
  • You will get the best attention from the organizing team and the volunteers and don’t you agree that sometimes small is more beautiful?
  • Access to large sections of private coffee estates, otherwise inaccessible to many, home to some of India’s finest coffee, fruits, and spices.
  • You will be running through some of the greenest sections in the world and surrounded by various shades of nature. You can have a lonely tryst with the birds & the animal kingdom and find many quiet moments to meditate and rejuvenate your soul.
  • The running terrain is located at an elevation of 3600-4600 feet, and the ultra distance (up to 50k) runners will experience climbing up and down over approx. 1000 meters. Every direction you take will ensure you are constantly challenged. Take a break at regular intervals to admire the breathtaking scenery.  Hey, remember! there is a cut-off rule to get the personalized medal.
  • You and the rest of the Bison Ultra runners will stay at Last Shola Cottages, Heavens Ledge Campsites in Tents, and Srinivasa Lodge & Resorts (located 5-7 km from Last Shola) – we may add additional properties t this list.. Thousands of trees and plants surround these locations. It will be a grand opportunity for you to strike a friendship, have a loud laugh, and engage in the most favourite runner-boasting conversations about your marathon achievements and travel experiences or much more than that.
  • The combination of chilly mornings and a bit warm and humid daytime makes the trail ultra more challenging for the first-timer.
  • And much more…

The 4th edition is scheduled on 4-Sep-2022, Sunday

Registration start: 1-Jan-2023

Registration end: 10-May-2023 or when all tickets are sold.

Please visit the “register” page

The registration fee will include entry to the trail event and a one-night accommodation, including one dinner, lunch, and breakfast.

Apart from this, all the finishers within the cut-off time set will get a finisher medal.

All runners will get an event Souvenir T-Shirt.

Please refer to the registration page for additional information

CHECK-IN ON 3-Jun-2023, SATURDAY, 12 pm

CHECKOUT ON 4-Jun-2023, SUNDAY noon for 25k; late checkout allowed for 50k runners; talk to the property manager while checking in

Your entry and accommodation package include 

If you are a 25k runner: 

On Saturday: Lunch, Evening Tea & Dinner (served at Last Shola Cottage)

On Sunday: Breakfast @ the Finish (served at Heavens Ledge)

If you are a 50k runner

On Saturday: Evening Tea & Dinner  (served at Last Shola Cottage)

On Sunday: Breakfast @ 25k, Lunch @ Finish  (served at Heavens Ledge)

You can bring your family members if they are 18+ and also participating in the Ultra Marathon.  We have limited slots available for this event.

50k: 8 hrs 30 mins

25k: 4 hrs 30 mins

Note: The cut-off time is only for the finisher medal – the course for the 25k is open till the last 50k runner finishes… we will not sweep the 25k runners (unless someone asks).  The 50k runners will be swept if they are on the course & running beyond the cut-off time.

Bison Ultra is a friendly trail ultra that would challenge first-timers (marathoners & half marathoners) to attempt their 25k and 50k in tough hilly terrain and hot weather conditions.

Qualification requirements:

  • 25k: One official half marathon completed after 1 Aug 2022, must submit the completion certificate or link for evidence
  • 50k: One official Full Marathon completed within 5:50 hrs completed after 1-Aug-2022, , must submit the completion certificate or link for evidence

Follow our Facebook & Instagram pages

Once you book the ticket, you will have the option to join the private WhatsApp group to stay connected with all the other runners

The best way to arrive at the event venue will be by your personal vehicle.

There are limited government & private buses available.

  • Government bus: 7.45 am Yercaud Nagalur, Semmanatham (Srinivasa Resorts is nearby), orange bus stand (walk to Last Shola ~3 km)
  • Government bus: 11.45 am @Salem… Yercaud, Nagalur, Semmanatham, Orange bus stand
  • Government bus: 3.00 pm from Salem to Sengalaththupadi via Last Shola, arriving at 5.00 pm
  • Government bus: 5.10-5.10 @ Last Shola, Yercaud to Salem
  • Private bus Salem MSNV (Muthu): 3.00 pm @ Salem, 4.30 Yercaud, 5.00 Semmanatham (last stop) 5.15 pm return
  • Taxi or Auto from Yercaud to Last Shola or Srinivasa Resorts Rs. 500-1000 approx.

Date: 3-Jun-2023, Saturday

The Bison Ultra expo will be a casual gathering of all runners and will be held at the Last Shola Gazebo area.  

4.30 to 5.00 pm: BIB Distribution

5.00 pm to 5.45 pm: Evening tea/coffee followed by race briefing delivered by Coach Kay, the founder/race director of Bison Ultra. 

This is a MANDATORY session for all runners and will have a lot of information about the race, any last-minute route-related changes and safety announcements.

You can email coachkay@kfita.in with the subject line “Bison Ultra – query”.