My name is Attila Bíró, a 46-year-old ultramarathon runner from Dunaszerdahely and an economist by profession. This July, I am preparing for the toughest race of my life – the world’s toughest road race – in Death Valley, USA. My goal is to run 135 miles, or 217 kilometres, in under 48 hours in 50-degree heat as part of the Badwater 135 race, in which 100 runners from around the world are allowed to compete.

Entry to the race must be earned through previous results. It operates on an invitation-only basis. For many, this opportunity never arises. For me, this will be the highlight of my career. I have been running for 30 years alongside my day job. I have dozens of marathons, ultramarathons, and 24- and 48-hour runs under my belt. I have run the full circumference of Lake Balaton and completed both the Athens–Sparta (246 km) and the Athens–Sparta–Athens (490 km) routes. I hold 14 national indoor records. The Badwater 135 is about prestige, human endurance and the limits of human performance. I have been preparing for this race for 30 years.

Taking part in this race is a challenge in financial terms too. Having exhausted my financial resources, we even sold the family car so that I could line up at the start. Alongside many fans and supporters, I am also asking for your support so that I can achieve what is every runner’s dream. What seems impossible is only so until you achieve it! I believe I am capable of this challenge; I approach the start with humility, and I hold in high regard every aspect of this race! See you at the finish line!

My name is Attila Bíró, a 46-year-old ultramarathon runner from Dunajská Streda; in my professional life, I work as an economist. I am currently preparing for the toughest race of my life, the world’s toughest road running race in Death Valley, USA. My goal is to run 135 miles (217 kilometres) in 50-degree heat in under 48 hours as part of the Badwater135 race, in which 100 people from around the world can take part.

Entry to the competition must be secured through previous running results, via a qualifying process. Participation is only possible by invitation from the organisers. For many, this opportunity will never arise. For me, this will be the highlight of my career alongside my day job. I have completed dozens of marathons, ultramarathons, and 24- and 48-hour runs. I have run around Lake Balaton and covered the distances from Athens to Sparta (246 km) and Athens to Sparta to Athens (490 km). I hold 14 national indoor records. Badwater135 is about prestige, human endurance and the limits of performance. I have been preparing for this race for 30 years.

Taking part in this race is a challenge from a financial point of view too. After exhausting our funds, we even sold the family car so that I could take part. In addition to my many fans and supporters, I am also seeking your valued support so that I can fulfil what is every runner’s dream. What seems impossible is only impossible until you do it! I believe I am up to this challenge; I approach the start with humility and greatly appreciate all the circumstances that this competition brings! See you at the finish line!