'I don't think I view real ultra-racing as particularly healthy' – Maddy Nutt looks to beat Traka 560 record with pocket pizza, voicenotes from loved ones, and a refreshing attitude towards sleep

Maddy Nutt, the British cyclist riding for the Q36.5 off-road team, is preparing to tackle the Traka 560, a gruelling 560-kilometre ultra-distance gravel race. This marks a significant step up from her previous efforts in the Traka 360, where she completed the 360km course three times, including one ride with a torn shoulder ligament. Nutt’s motivation for taking on the longer challenge centres on pushing her endurance limits and discovering what her body can sustain over 24 hours or more, aiming to break the existing women’s course record of just under 29 hours. Despite the daunting distance and the need to ride through the night, Nutt approaches the race with a composed and positive mindset. She acknowledges that riding overnight will require sacrificing sleep, but she maintains a healthy attitude towards rest, contrasting with the often extreme sleep deprivation seen in other ultra-endurance events. Nutt emphasises that the Traka 560 is perhaps the longest race possible without the necessity of extended sleep deprivation, which she believes makes it a comparatively healthier ultra event. Her pragmatic approach highlights safety and self-care, especially given her past injury experience in more competitive and crowded gravel races. Nutt’s perspective also reflects a growing concern about the increasing competitiveness and density of gravel race pelotons, which she feels can compromise rider safety. She is more attracted to the solitary nature of the Traka 560, preferring the challenge of riding alone over the risks of tightly packed groups. This shift in attitude underscores a broader trend in ultra-distance cycling, where personal challenge and endurance are prioritised over tactical group dynamics, and where riders are becoming more cautious about the physical toll of highly competitive environments. Beyond the race itself, Nutt comments on the influence of social media in shaping the ultra-endurance scene. She notes that the rise of ultra events and the sharing of extreme athletic feats online have raised expectations and participation levels, sometimes encouraging amateurs to attempt challenges beyond their capabilities. While she supports the promotion of sport and fitness, she warns against the dangers of pushing too hard, especially when it leads to injury or burnout. Her views resonate with wider debates about the balance between inspiration and responsibility in endurance sports communities. Looking ahead, Nutt’s attempt at the Traka 560 will serve as a significant test of endurance and mental resilience, potentially setting a new benchmark for women’s ultra-gravel racing. Her focus on health, safety, and sustainable performance could influence how future ultra events are approached by both professionals and amateurs. As the sport evolves, her experience may encourage a more measured and mindful approach to ultra-distance challenges, emphasising personal limits over competitive extremes.