About OOTYULTRA

OOTYULTRA is an ultramarathon organised by KaysFIT Academy, founded by Kannan Sundararajan (Coach Kay), who also serves as the Race Director.

With its steep ascents and descents, OOTYULTRA is the perfect challenge for both amateur runners and passionate ultrarunners. Featuring six distance categories — 90k, 75k, 60k, 50k, 30k, and 15k — the race offers a unique opportunity for runners at every level to experience the beauty and toughness of this mountain ultramarathon.

The OOTYULTRA course takes runners on a breathtaking journey through the heart of Ooty — weaving past bustling town streets, iconic landmarks, green forest trails, and peaceful village roads. As runners climb towards Doddabetta, the second-highest peak in South India, they are rewarded with sweeping mountain views that make every step worthwhile.

Whether you're a beginner taking your first step into endurance running or an experienced ultrarunner seeking your next big challenge, OOTYULTRA delivers an unforgettable experience — testing your endurance, determination, and spirit amidst the stunning Nilgiris.

Founder & Race Director

"OOTYULTRA originally started as a training run for a few aspiring Comrades marathon runners and was eventually shaped and crafted to be the most beautiful ultramarathon that provides a challenging yet memorable racing experience to several aspiring runners (whom I call affectionately the #ultramalaivasi's) worldwide.

Since its first edition, OOTYULTRA has grown in multiple folds. It is one of India's most sought-after, challenging ultramarathon races in the most enchanting Blue Mountains of The Nilgiris. OOTYULTRA will strive to provide a 'wow' experience to the runners while offering the best value for the association to sponsors & partners."

Coach Kay

M.Sc in Sports Performance | High-Performance Endurance Coach | Certified Personal Trainer | UESCA Ultrarunning Coach | Certified Project Manager | 6-Sigma Black Belt in Business Excellence

Founder & Race Director OOTYULTRA | Bison Ultra

How It All Started

Coach Kay is a back-to-back Comrades Marathon finisher. During his own Comrades training in 2014, he used the current OOTYULTRA course as a training route.

After becoming a full-time ultrarunning coach, he wanted to introduce his KaysFIT Academy athletes to Ooty's demanding terrain to prepare them mentally and physically for the Comrades Marathon.

What began as a 60k training run in 2018 for KaysFIT Academy athletes Balaji Thulasiraman, Ajay Verma, and Satyashil Pradhan quickly evolved into the first edition of OOTYULTRA.

OOTYULTRA Journey

Read the Race Director's Report

A Training Ground for Greatness

OOTYULTRA is more than a race. It shapes resilience and prepares runners for challenges far beyond the Nilgiris.

The 50k is the perfect way to announce that you have arrived on the ultramarathon scene. It gives runners a confident entry into the world of long distance mountain running and sets them up for future goals, including the MUM Mountain Ultra Marathon.

The 60k and 75k courses raise the bar. They serve as strong stepping stones for major international mountain events like the Comrades Marathon in South Africa. Runners who take on these distances often discover that they return mentally sharper and physically stronger. The elevation, the long climbs and the sharp descents build a kind of toughness that stays with them.

And for those who enjoy pushing boundaries, there is always the next question. If you can run the Comrades, why not come and attempt the brutal 90k at OOTYULTRA?

Success here needs intent. Focused hill training, strength conditioning and steady endurance work help runners take on these courses and earn results that truly matter.

Pushing the Limits in 2025 and Beyond

OOTYULTRA keeps growing every year. In 2025 we introduced the 75k category. In 2026 the new 50k category will open. These distances help runners move from full marathons into serious mountain ultrarunning and give them a clear next step in their endurance journey.

At the top sits the 90k invitation only category. It is known as one of the toughest road ultramarathons in India. The finish rate has been just 45 percent since it started in 2022. It demands strong preparation and a calm mind. Preeti Lala is still the only woman who has completed the 90k. Her performance stands as an important moment in Indian ultrarunning.

The OOTYULTRA Legacy

From the first 15k race to the demanding 90k challenge, OOTYULTRA has built its name by setting a high benchmark for mountain ultramarathons in India. Each edition carries the same spirit. Toughness. Beauty. The drive for personal progress. OOTYULTRA pushes runners to go beyond what they thought was possible.

The Perfect Connection

OOTYULTRA is not just a race. It is a celebration of Ooty. The event connects runners with the tradition, history, culture, natural beauty and warm people of the Blue Mountains.

Running through the Nilgiris is a journey of discovery. Every step reveals mountain views, misty forests and a quiet charm that makes Ooty special. For many runners this becomes a rare chance to feel the gift of nature through endurance running.

Each year OOTYULTRA brings together runners from across India and abroad. Many come back with their families to explore the Nilgiris. For most, it becomes more than a race. It becomes a reason to return to the mountains every year.

Why You Should Run the OOTYULTRA

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned ultrarunner, OOTYULTRA promises a unique and rewarding experience. Here's what makes it special:

• Reach new heights: Run up to Doddabetta, the highest peak in South India, at 2,637 m above sea level
• Inclusive race categories: Distances of 90k, 75k, 60k, 50k, 30k, and 15k, designed for every level of runner
• Scenic and challenging: Mostly non-repeating routes through stunning mountain terrain
• Vibrant pre-race events: Build camaraderie, share experiences, and soak in the local culture
• Finisher rewards: Receive a premium #ultramalaivasi T-shirt and a custom 4-inch medal engraved with your name
• Perfect timing: End of March to early April — the ideal window for a summer family vacation in Ooty
• Earn your title: Become a proud #ultramalaivasi (மலைவாசி in Tamil), meaning "mountain dweller"
• Support system: Backed by a committed team of volunteers, sponsors, medical experts, and safety professionals

OOTYULTRA isn't just for the elite — it's designed for everyone who loves the mountains, endurance, and the joy of running.

Who Is It For?

Behind the Logo

The OOTYULTRA logo proudly represents the essence of Ooty — its people, culture, and breathtaking landscape. Every design element reflects the flora, terrain, and iconic landmarks that make OOTYULTRA truly unique. It stands as a symbol of endurance, community, and connection with the mountains.