About Bison Ultra

Bison Ultra is a scenic and tough trail ultramarathon in Yercaud, Tamil Nadu. It is created and directed by Coach Kay under KaysFIT Academy. The race is designed to give amateur and experienced runners a controlled but demanding taste of mountain trail running while showcasing the Eastern Ghats and the Indian bison (gaur).

Basic facts

Idea and concept

Bison Ultra brings together steep climbs, single-track sections, beautiful coffee plantations, forest paths, and rural terrain. All this is delivered through a safe and well-supported format. Runners experience the natural habitat of the gaur in an eco-sensitive way while enjoying the charm of the mountains.

Design philosophy & runner experience

The event size is intentionally limited to ensure quality support for every runner. On-course volunteers are trained in first aid and CPR. There is full medical coverage including AED support. Qualification guidelines ensure that runners are well prepared and safe.

Bison Ultra invites every participant to become an ultra mountain dweller. The focus is on tough trail effort, nature connection, community support, and a memorable race day experience.

Founder & Race Director

Coach Kay conceptualised Bison Ultra after the success and learnings from OOTYULTRA, aiming to craft a curated, exclusive trail ultra that highlights the Eastern Ghats and the gaur. The event is kept boutique to deliver a high-quality experience rather than scale.

Coach Kay, Founder & Race Director of Bison Ultra

Coach Kay

M.Sc in Sports Performance | High-Performance Endurance Coach | Certified Personal Trainer | UESCA Ultrarunning Coach | Certified Project Manager | 6-Sigma Black Belt in Business Excellence

Founder & Race Director, Bison Ultra

History of Bison Ultra

Bison Ultra was first held in February 2020 in Yercaud and has grown as an ITRA-certified trail event while expanding its distance mix for both first-time trail runners and seasoned ultramarathoners.

1st Edition
09-Feb-2020

Debut event with 45 runners (50K & 25K).

45 runners 50K • 25K
2nd Edition
07-Feb-2021

50 runners (50K & 25K).

50 runners 50K • 25K
3rd Edition
05-Jun-2022

45 runners (50K & 25K).

45 runners 50K • 25K
4th Edition
10-Sep-2023

Format refined (60K, 30K, 15K).

60K • 30K • 15K
5th Edition
04-Feb-2024

Second event in the same year.

6th Edition
09-Jun-2024

ITRA certified; 160 runners.

160 runners ITRA certified
7th Edition
08-Jun-2025

ITRA certified; 200 runners.

200 runners ITRA certified
8th Edition
07-Jun-2026

Scheduled; expecting ~300 runners.

~300 runners ITRA Certified, Scheduled