Running ultra at 18 ?

Question

I'm now 16 and wqant to run the Comrades Marathon (89km) at 18. Do you think it's wise , or even a viable idea ? I realy love running and badly want to do this.

Answer 1

First of all, have you ever competed in a halfmarathon(because I don't think you're allowed to run a marathon even at your age)?

If that went well, work up to a full marathon for when you are 18. I do not know if they would even allow an 18 year old to compete because of their still underdeveloped muscular-skeletal system. However, if this is really a life goal, remember that you have your WHOLE LIFE to do it! Don't rush it because you will regret it at mile 30 when you know that your body won't recover nicely from all the stress that you're putting it through. Take lots of time to train!