Conquering 72,590 Feet of Mars on Earth: Jason Dow

By: Jason Dow - IronHike Olympus Mons Ultra Finisher

The Olympus Mons Ultra is not just an event; it is a four-day, three-night descent into the crucible of ultra-endurance. Inspired by the highest planetary mountain in our Solar System, Mars’ colossal peak, this "Beyond-Everesting-Challenge" demands 122 laps, 0 flat miles, 152.5 miles of total distance, and a staggering 72,590 feet of elevation gain and loss within an 84-hour window. Before my successful attempt, only two Mountain Athletes had ever earned the coveted finisher status. This is my story as the third IronHike Mountain Athlete to stand atop that signature summit, both figuratively and spiritually.

I will keep this short and not use too much of your precious time. You most likely have read a lot about how awesome IronHike's culture is and how supportive they are. Let me tell you what they are not talking about; this is one of the best events I have done.

The sheer magnitude of the challenge is matched only by the spirit of the tribe. The Mountain Athletes that come out to push themselves are amazing and friendly. Some of them even let me tag along for a lap, even though I had not showered in a few days and probably saw things that were not there. I have completed hundreds of events, from 5ks and 100 milers to 24-hour obstacle course races and multi-day events. I can tell you definitively that IronHike is one of the hardest and most rewarding events out of them all.

This mountain broke me down and built me back up. I faced the ultimate summit twice, battling the relentless vertical: I have two attempts and one finish at Olympus Mons. When I finally crossed that final line, completing the vertical journey to Mars, the exhaustion was absolute, but the feeling was cosmic. When I finished, I felt invincible, but humbled and full of gratitude. Thank you, IronHike Mountain Athletes and IronHike Team, for helping me complete Olympus Mons.

The journey doesn't end here. The fire that the Olympus Mons Ultra lit is now focused on helping the next generation of Mountain Athletes reach their own impossible summits. I am incredibly proud to announce that I will be joining the IronHike team as an IronCoach. I look forward to implementing our new "Couch to Mountain" monthly training call program in 2026 to prepare you for the limit-push of a lifetime. See you on the mountain.

Jason