Mafalda Sigmarsson wins women's 106km Hengils Ultra in Iceland

Mafalda Sigmarsson emerged victorious in the women's category of the 106-kilometer Hengils Ultra race in Iceland, completing the grueling course in a time of 18 hours, 59 minutes, and 7 seconds. The Portuguese runner, who has resided in Iceland for six years, was met by her sons at the finish line.

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There was cold air in the course and a lot of dampness and rain, and that made it difficult for people.

Race founder Einar Bárðason described the conditions as demanding, particularly during the night. "There was cold air in the course and a lot of dampness and rain, and that made it difficult for people," he stated. The challenging weather led to 13 out of 25 participants in the 106 km distance withdrawing from the race, with Bárðason noting, "People just gave up against nature."

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People just gave up against nature.

This year's Hengils Ultra attracted a notable increase in international participation, with runners hailing from 38 different countries. Bárðason attributed this surge to the event being more actively advertised abroad for the first time. He mentioned that approximately 50 participants were from the United States. Despite the harsh Icelandic weather, Bárðason observed that foreign participants do not complain, understanding that the Hengill region presents a formidable challenge, unlike more temperate vacation destinations.

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You come not in Hengilinn in search of some easy task. Then people just go to Mallorca or Tenerife and take a sprint there.