In an exhilarating weekend for ultrarunning, Belgium’s Matthieu Bonne and Poland’s Patrycja Bereznowska made headlines by shattering the men’s and women’s 48-hour world records at the 2025 UltraPark Weekend 48 Hour race held in Pabianice, Poland.
Record-Setting Performances
Matthieu Bonne accomplished an extraordinary feat, running a confirmed distance of at least 485.099 kilometers (301.426 miles). This monumental performance surpassed the previous world record, held by the legendary ultrarunner Yiannis Kouros, by at least 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles). Kouros’ record had stood since 1996, when he covered 473.495 kilometers (294.216 miles) in Surgeres, France.
On the women’s side, Patrycja Bereznowska ran a remarkable 436.373 kilometers (271.149 miles), breaking the prior record set by Camille Herron in 2023 by just over a kilometer (approximately 0.6 miles). Bereznowska’s achievement represents a significant leap from her own previous record of 403.32 kilometers (250.611 miles), which she set at the same event in 2022, improving by more than 20 miles.
Race Conditions and Atmosphere
The race commenced at noon Polish time on Friday, May 30, and concluded on Sunday, June 1. Throughout the event, conditions remained warm, reaching nearly 30 degrees Celsius (86°F), accompanied by high humidity. However, the shade provided by the tree-lined course aided participants, creating generally favorable running conditions. The competition was held on a certified flat asphalt loop of just under a mile, winding through Pabianice’s scenic Park Wolności.
Importantly, this event also served as the Global Organization of Multi-Day Ultramarathoning 48-Hour World Championships, further cementing its significance in the realm of ultrarunning. Both records achieved by Bonne and Bereznowska are pending ratification by the International Association of Ultrarunners.
Matthieu Bonne’s Legendary Achievement
Matthieu Bonne not only set a new world record but also made history by becoming the first man to surpass the 300-mile threshold in a 48-hour race. With an average pace of approximately 5:56 per kilometer (9:34 per mile) over the 48-hour period—including breaks—he demonstrated exceptional stamina and strategy. Usually pacing himself, Bonne recorded a formidable 143.21 kilometers after just 12 hours and 329.57 kilometers after 30 hours, maintaining his confidence and composure as he closed in on the record.
The 31-year-old athlete comes from a rich background in endurance sports, excelling in open water swimming and ultrarunning. Prior accolades include finishing the Marathon des Sables and breaking the men’s six-day world record at the 2024 GOMU-EMU 6-Day World Championships in Hungary.
Patrycja Bereznowska’s Remarkable Comeback
Patrycja Bereznowska reclaimed the women’s 48-hour record with her outstanding performance, which involved an average pace of about 6:36 per kilometer (10:37 per mile), including breaks. At 49 years old, her achievement not only underscores her incredible endurance but also serves as an inspiration to many.
Throughout her race, Bereznowska maintained a pace close to record levels. As the hours ticked away, fans watched with bated breath, unsure whether she would surpass the previous record. The atmosphere exploded with celebration as she crossed the finish line, achieving not only the new record but also exceeding it by nearly a kilometer.
The Impact of Ultra Racing
The 2025 UltraPark Weekend 48 Hour event stands as a testament to the incredible potential of ultrarunning. Both Matthieu Bonne and Patrycja Bereznowska have etched their names in history with their remarkable achievements. Their victories inspire athletes and enthusiasts alike, showing what is possible with dedication and determination.
As ultrarunning continues to grow in popularity, events like these serve as a stage for the best athletes in the world to push their limits and redefine what is considered humanly achievable. For more detailed tracking and race results, you can visit this link.
