7. 24h Mad Chicken Run - Trail

The 24h Mad Chicken Run is a looped ultra in Hänchen, Germany, near Cottbus. Runners spend up to 24 hours circling a 2 km course. The main solo race uses asphalt, forest, and field paths, with about 15 metres of climb per lap on the flatter loop. A tougher motocross-track option provides roughly 60 metres of climb each time around. It is a compact, campsite-style race rather than a point-to-point adventure; the challenge comes from repeating the same short circuit, managing food, rest, weather, and pace until the clock runs out. The programme includes more than the 24-hour solo race, with 5-person teams, 6-hour 3-person Bambini Ultra teams, 10 km races, half marathons over 11 laps, and marathons over 21 laps, typically split into flat and cross versions. The field has drawn runners from 12 nations. The 24-hour results show both depth and serious distance, with winning marks around 190 to 208 km. The race embraces its local, slightly oddball identity: there is a dumpling party the day before, free parking and camping right by the course, showers, massage, full catering, medals, trophies, and merchandise prizes.