Laz Cantrell is the man behind this hell ultramarathon. Cantrell, a true rebel of Tennessee, hearing about the 1977 escape of James Ray, the assassin of Martin Luther King Jr, from nearby Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary. James Ray covered 8 miles (13 km) after running 55 hours in the wood.

This fact was the inspiration to create one of the world’s most grueling footraces, the Barkley Marathons. The first run was in 1986.

Laz Cantrell says:

“I think people are obsessed with comfort to the point that they forget. If you don’t have any discomfort in your life, how do you know when you feel good?”

“The fact that they will probably fail makes it more appealing.”

*Barkley Marathons is an ultramarathon trail race held near Wartburg, Tennessee. The full course is 100 miles (160 km) (distances are approximate) comprised of five 20-mile loops which you have 60 hours to complete. There is some pretty rugged and devilish terrain, a massive amount of climb about 66.000 feet and you have just your map and compass. It is cold, it is wet, it is miserable and you are alone.

People describe Laz Cantrell as a crazy (in a good way), smart and sadist guy.

Barkley Marathon is also in Netflix as a a grueling contest based on a historic prison break tests the mettle and endurance of athletes taking on a marathon many start but few finish.