My name is Karl Alvarez and I am a General Practitioner living and working in Gibraltar.

Last June, I challenged myself to complete 4 of the most gruelling ultramarathons on Earth, in a year. If successful I would become the first person EVER to achieve this, completing the Beyond the Ultimate Global Series of Ultramarathons. Each of the races is in a very different environment – Desert, Ice, Jungle, Mountain – which makes each one unique and adds extra challenges for training, kit and preparation. Learn more about the races and my challenge by watching this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAmgPrZFyGs&t=6s

So far, I have attempted 3 of the 4 races in the Global Series. I exceeded all of my expectations by winning the mens category of the Ice Ultra in the Arctic circle! Unfortunately my most recent race in the Amazon did not go to plan, and I became unwell and was medically retired after I passed out alone in the Jungle.

But I will not let this small stumble dictate the narrative of my story. I will continue to persevere and see my challenge through to the very end. Next week I will be in the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan running 200km at altitudes of up to 4000m. Next year, I intend to return to Peru and complete the Jungle Ultra. If I complete this race I will still be the person to have completed the Global Series in the shortest space of time. I have also signed up to other Beyond the Ultimate races outside of the Global Series that if I complete, I will be the only person to have done EVERY BTU race.

I have taken on this enormous challenge to raise awareness about Mental Health and children with special needs. The charities I am supporting (GibSams and Special Needs Action Group) hold a very special place in my heart. You can find out more about the amazing work that they do by following the links below:

https://www.gibsams.gi/about-gibsams/contact-us/

https://www.facebook.com/SNAGgib

I am still a long way from reaching my target, and I will only get there with the kindness and generosity of those who read this page. Every penny will be divided equally between these two great causes. Thank you.