OH MEU DEUS - Portugal's Ulimate Ultra Challenge

Paulo Garcia – Race Director / 27.06.2023

Viriathus, Serra da Estrela and Ultra Trail - three elements that are part of the imagination of Trail Running lovers in Portugal. Serra da Estrela is the highest mountain in continental Portugal and one of the most sought after places by tourists who want to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities.

But what do these three elements have in common? For sports and nature lovers in Portugal, they represent the perfect combination of challenge, adventure and history. Running the Ultra Trail of Serra da Estrela is a unique experience, which allows participants to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and test their physical and mental limits.

And at the same time, it evokes the memory of a national hero who fought for his people's independence against one of the greatest military powers of the time. Viriathus was a Lusitanian leader who fought against the Roman occupation in the 2nd century BC.

More than 20 centuries later to ascend to the throne and be declared Viriathus you’ll have to complete the 160km of OH MEU DEUS in less than 34 hours, and then you’ll have another 10 hours to do the remaining 40.

This edition showed that it’s possible. 19 Viriatos were consecrated, 18 men and 1 woman.

OMD was the first trail running race in Portugal with 100km and also with 100 miles. In the stunning Serra da Estrela Natural Park every year participants from all over the world gather to enjoy an area unique in Portugal and the world.

The race is very close to the population and this offers safety, comfort, and also a lot of friendliness. The inhabitants of Seia, home of the event, are very hospitable and generous.

Looking at this year's results, the high rate of finishers, don't think that the race is easy. It isn't. It is quite difficult in any of the four distances. However, this year there were unique conditions for everyone to have a better chance of success. The temperatures were mild, the climb to the highest point was not foggy and the participants are getting stronger.

The next edition has no date set yet, but as usual it will be in the first half of June.

Learn more at: https://horizontes.pt