David Goggins: Conquering the 10 Hardest Races on Earth

David Goggins is more than just an athlete—he’s a symbol of human resilience, mental toughness, and the relentless pursuit of self-mastery. From being an overweight exterminator to becoming a Navy SEAL, ultramarathon runner, and motivational speaker, Goggins has proven that limits are meant to be shattered. His journey has led him to some of the most grueling endurance races in the world.

Here’s a look at the 10 hardest races David Goggins has completed, each one pushing his mind and body to the brink.

1. Badwater 135 Ultramarathon

Location: Death Valley, CaliforniaDistance: 135 milesWhy It’s Brutal: Known as the "World's Toughest Footrace," the Badwater 135 takes runners through the scorching heat of Death Valley with temperatures soaring above 130°F (54°C). The race climbs over 14,600 feet, finishing at Mt. Whitney Portal. In 2007, Goggins placed 3rd, cementing his status as one of the world's toughest endurance athletes.

2. Moab 240 Endurance Run

Location: Moab, UtahDistance: 240 milesWhy It’s Brutal: This non-stop race covers deserts, slick rock, canyons, and mountain ranges with over 29,000 feet of elevation gain. Goggins battled through sleep deprivation, extreme weather, and mental exhaustion to finish this monstrous race.

3. HURT 100-Mile Endurance Run

Location: Honolulu, HawaiiDistance: 100 milesWhy It’s Brutal: The HURT 100 is infamous for its technical trails through Hawaii’s rainforests, featuring steep climbs, slippery roots, and suffocating humidity. The treacherous course tests runners’ mental and physical limits, and Goggins powered through its relentless terrain.

4. Leadville Trail 100 Run

Location: Leadville, ColoradoDistance: 100 milesWhy It’s Brutal: Known as the "Race Across the Sky," this ultramarathon challenges runners with high-altitude conditions, starting at 10,200 feet and peaking over 12,600 feet. Oxygen is scarce, and every mile is a battle against altitude sickness and fatigue.

5. Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run

Location: California's Sierra Nevada MountainsDistance: 100 milesWhy It’s Brutal: As the oldest 100-mile trail race, it features extreme heat, rugged trails, and 18,000 feet of ascent. Goggins faced relentless climbs and scorching temperatures, finishing this prestigious ultramarathon with grit and determination.

6. Ultraman World Championships

Location: Big Island, HawaiiDistance: 320 miles (Over 3 Days)Why It’s Brutal: This ultra-triathlon includes a 6.2-mile swim, a 261.4-mile bike ride, and a 52.4-mile double marathon. Goggins, not a seasoned triathlete, trained intensely and pushed through excruciating pain to honor fallen Navy SEALs and raise money for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation.

7. The Infinitus 88K Trail Race

Location: VermontDistance: 88 kilometers (54.7 miles)Why It’s Brutal: This rugged trail race features steep, technical climbs and unpredictable weather. Goggins dominated the course, finishing 1st overall in 2016, proving his ability to conquer brutal terrains.

8. Kona Ironman World Championship

Location: Kona, HawaiiDistance: 140.6 milesWhy It’s Brutal: The Ironman consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile marathon. Kona is notorious for its intense heat and crosswinds, making it one of the most challenging Ironman races. Goggins completed it as part of his mission to continually test his limits.

9. The San Diego One Day (100-Mile Race)

Location: San Diego, CaliforniaDistance: 100 milesWhy It’s Brutal: This race was a turning point for Goggins. With no proper ultramarathon training, he ran 100 miles in 19 hours to qualify for the Badwater 135. He suffered from kidney failure, broken bones in his feet, and severe dehydration but refused to quit.

10. The Barkley Marathons

Location: Frozen Head State Park, TennesseeDistance: ~100 miles (Exact Distance Unknown)Why It’s Brutal: Considered one of the hardest races on Earth, only 15 people have finished since its inception. The course is unmarked, the elevation gain is staggering, and most runners never complete more than a few laps. Goggins attempted this notorious race, battling sleep deprivation, brutal terrain, and the mental chaos it brings.