The 10th edition of the Ultra Mirage El Grich, a renowned desert ultra-marathon, kicked off on Friday, October 3, 2026, with a new 162-kilometer race that will span 32 hours. The event has attracted a record number of participants, with over 500 runners from 20 countries, including numerous supporters. The new 100-mile distance is a first for Tunisia and features 32 runners from 11 countries.
The Ultra Mirage El Grich takes place across four distances: 25 km, 50 km, 100 km, and 162 km, allowing for a diverse range of participants. The course is a rural, desert route that begins and ends at Lake Chamsa, passing through several oases. According to Amir Ben Qasim, one of the event organizers, the Ultra Mirage El Grich has a significant impact on promoting tourism in the region, with a substantial number of visitors.
The event's organizers, in collaboration with sponsors, have implemented various social activities on the sidelines of the competition. These initiatives have focused on supporting local youth, particularly in the areas of education and technology. Over the past two years, the organizers have contributed to the development of a youth center in Tozeur, including the provision of a multipurpose room, an information room, and a robotics lab.
This year's event continues the tradition of supporting local communities, with the organizers providing additional resources to the youth center, including an arts room and a theater. Such initiatives demonstrate the potential for events like the Ultra Mirage El Grich to drive positive change and foster community development.
The Ultra Mirage El Grich has become a prominent event in the region, attracting participants from around the world. The competition's unique blend of athleticism and cultural exchange has earned it a reputation as a premier destination for runners and adventure seekers.
In related news, Tunisia's national weightlifting team recently participated in the African Junior and Youth Championships in Algeria with 17 athletes. The country's karate team also competed in the World Junior and Youth Championships in Bologna, Italy, with nine members. Additionally, Tunisian judoka Amima Beldioui represented her country at the World Judo Championships.
As the Ultra Mirage El Grich continues to grow in popularity, it is expected to further enhance its reputation as a world-class event. With its unique combination of challenging terrain, stunning natural beauty, and community-focused initiatives, the competition is poised to remain a highlight of the international running calendar for years to come.
Key points
- A new 162-kilometer race has been introduced in the 10th edition of the Ultra Mirage El Grich.
- Over 500 runners from 20 countries are participating in the event.
- The event has contributed to the development of local youth centers and community initiatives.
