In the world of extreme endurance races, few events push the limits of human performance quite like The Speed Project (TSP). With no set rules, no official course, and no support from traditional race organizers, TSP stands as one of the most brutal and mentally grueling races on the planet. This underground, unsanctioned relay race strips running down to its rawest form: pure grit, relentless endurance, and unbreakable team spirit.
What Is The Speed Project?
The Speed Project is an unofficial, invitation-only race that begins at the iconic Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles and ends at the "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign in Nevada. The challenge? Cover approximately 340 miles (550 kilometers) as fast as possible—with no specific route, no aid stations, and no rules.
Participants can choose how they get there:
Run solo for the entire distance.
Relay in teams of 2, 4, or 6 runners.
Mix up running, resting, and strategizing however they want.
The only goal: Get to Vegas faster than everyone else.
No Rules, No Limits
What makes The Speed Project so insane is its complete lack of structure. There are no road closures, no checkpoints, and no race officials. Teams must design their own routes—whether it’s taking the direct but dangerous path through the Mojave Desert or opting for longer, safer alternatives.
Participants face:
Blistering desert heat during the day and freezing temperatures at night.
Sleep deprivation, running for days with minimal rest.
Navigation challenges, avoiding traffic, rough terrain, and desolate roads.
Mental battles, with long, isolated stretches pushing runners to the brink.
The Strategy Behind the Madness
Winning The Speed Project isn’t just about speed—it’s about strategy. Teams must decide:
When to switch runners.
How far each runner should push.
Whether to follow highways, dirt trails, or completely off-road paths.
Support crews follow in vans stocked with food, water, and medical supplies, but teams must manage all logistics themselves. One wrong turn or mismanaged rest period can cost hours.
The Solo Category: The Ultimate Test
For the truly bold, there's the solo category, where runners attempt to cover all 340 miles alone. Few dare to enter this category, and even fewer finish. Battling isolation, fatigue, and the elements, these runners redefine human limits.
Why Runners Take On The Speed Project
The Speed Project attracts a unique breed of endurance athletes—not necessarily professional runners, but people obsessed with testing their physical and mental boundaries. It’s not about medals or prize money (there are none). It’s about bragging rights and surviving an event that demands every ounce of resilience.
TSP has gained a cult following for its underground nature, with teams sharing their experiences through gritty social media posts and raw documentaries. Its rebellious spirit challenges the sanitized world of modern marathons and ultramarathons.
Iconic Moments in TSP History
Record-Breaking Runs: Elite teams have completed the race in under 30 hours, averaging insane paces across brutal conditions.
Solo Finishers: Few solo runners have finished, and those who have are hailed as legends in the endurance community.
Creative Routes: Some teams have been known to cut through restricted areas or face natural obstacles, embracing the "no rules" ethos.
Is The Speed Project the Future of Endurance Racing?
As ultrarunning grows more popular, events like The Speed Project represent a shift away from traditional, heavily regulated races. This DIY approach appeals to athletes looking for authentic, raw experiences that go beyond PRs and podiums.
TSP has inspired other underground endurance events around the world, but it remains the original and most extreme.
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