All About The Race

THE RACE ITSELF

You have 2 days to get through 200 miles (300km). 

The Highway to Hell Ultracycle isn’t just another endurance event—it’s the most unique ultracycle challenge on the planet, mostly because it’s never been done before. Imagine this: 300km of relentless desert terrain, blistering heat, and a finish line unlike any other—the Gates of Hell.

But don’t worry, you’re not completely on your own. We’ve got your back. Each night, your campsite will be ready and waiting, with your tents set up so you can crash after a grueling day in the saddle. When the first light hits the dunes, breakfast will be ready to fuel you for another day of pushing your limits.

Water stations are spaced every 20-25km, and dinner will be there to refuel you when you roll into camp each evening. All you need is your bike, your gear, and the grit to keep pedaling. Whether you crawl, grind, or sprint through the heat, one thing’s for sure: you’ll get there.

YOU

300km in 2 days on a bike isn’t a casual Sunday ride—it’s brutal. Let’s be real: this is no joke.

That said, you can do it. It’s just one more push on the pedals, one more crank of the gears. Can you keep going for another meter? Another kilometer? Of course you can. So don’t quit. Don’t stop. Not here. Not now.

I created this event because I want everyone to realize their untapped potential. In a world where participation trophies have dulled what achievement really means, this is a chance to reclaim it. Events like this strip everything back to basics: effort, resilience, grit. Just keep pedaling, and I promise you, you’ll get there.

I’ll help you be ready for this. Trust yourself, and I’ll see you in Turkmenistan.

THE ROUTE

The Highway to Hell Ultracycle kicks off in the surreal capital city of Ashgabat—think marble palaces, golden statues, and a vibe straight out of a sci-fi movie. From there, it’s 300km of pure desert madness, cutting through the blazing Karakum sands all the way to the infamous Gates of Hell.

The route is marked with flags every 10km, so no chance of getting lost (unless you start daydreaming about air-conditioning). Water stations are strategically placed every 25km, giving you a chance to cool off, hydrate, and question all your life choices. At the halfway point, camp awaits—a safe haven where you can collapse, curse me, and prepare for day two.

Expect brutal heat, endless dunes, and terrain so unforgiving you’ll wonder why you ever signed up. But when you see the fiery Gates of Hell glowing on the horizon, it’ll all be worth it.

WATER STATIONS

I can’t stand self-sufficient races. The stress of figuring out gear, hauling food, and feeling that backpack digging into your shoulders? No thanks. I’d rather focus on the real challenge—pushing through the suffering. So, while this race will destroy your legs and your willpower, at least you won’t have to carry it all on your back.

Water stations are placed every 25km, stocked with unlimited water, shade, and a spot to sit and regroup. This is where you’ll check in, refill your bottles, and gather the strength to take on the next stretch. It’s brutal, but you’ll get there—one pedal stroke at a time

SLEEPING

Turkmen hospitality is something special, and our local team brings it to life out here in the Karakum Desert. With roots in nomadic traditions, they’ll show you how people have thrived in this unforgiving landscape for centuries. Each night, our camp will be ready and waiting—a slice of comfort in the middle of nowhere.

You’ll bunk either individually, or 2 to a tent, with camp beds to give your body a fighting chance at recovery before another brutal day in the saddle. We’ve got dining tents for your evening meal and even a toilet tent—because, yes, we’re civilized like that. After battling the desert all day, this setup will feel like the Ritz. Almost.

GEAR AND CLOTHING

Once you’ve signed up, we’ll hook you up with a full packing list—everything you’ll need for your time in Turkmenistan and, more importantly, for the race itself.

The basics? Cover up. Lightweight cycling gear that keeps you cool while protecting you from the relentless desert sun is a must. And don’t forget the sand. It gets everywhere. We’ll also guide you on using special sand gaiters to keep the grit out of your shoes and your sanity intact—because trust me, that stuff’s a killer. And remember, you can buy a bike from us so you don’t need to bring yours if you don’t want.

FOOD

From the moment we leave Ashgabat, we’ve got your meals covered. Leading up to the event, and each morning and evening during the race, our local team will prepare meals to keep you fueled and ready to tackle the desert. Both meat and vegetarian options are on the menu, and if you have specific dietary needs, just let us know beforehand.

For the meat-lovers, think hearty stews and traditional Turkmen flavors. For the vegetarians, it’s plenty of carbs and proteins—lentils, rice, and all the good stuff. During the race itself, you’re in charge of your mid-ride fuel. You’ll need a minimum of 4,000 calories per day, so pack your energy bars, gels, and whatever else keeps you going. You’ll thank yourself later.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Keeping you alive—at least long enough to cross the finish line—is my team’s number one priority. So rest easy knowing we’ve got every base covered.

We’ve partnered with our local Turkmenistan team to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely. On top of that, we’ll have medical professionals stationed at camp, a support vehicle following the route, and even a helicopter on call for emergencies. Travel health insurance is mandatory for all participants—no exceptions.

As for Turkmenistan being safe? Stick around for the next section, and we’ll clear that up for you.

TURKMENISTAN

Having traveled to all 197 countries on this planet, I can confidently say Turkmenistan is one of the safest I’ve ever visited. Sure, you might dodge the odd camel crossing the highway, but real danger? Virtually none. Decades ago, Turkmenistan’s reputation might have seemed a bit mysterious, but today it’s safe, stable, and an absolute hidden gem.

Yet despite its safety and unique charm, Turkmenistan remains one of the least-visited countries in the world. It’s a shame, really, because once you experience the surreal landscapes, the warm hospitality of the locals, and the sheer otherworldliness of the place, you’ll wonder why more people don’t come. Trust me—you’ll want to return.