History

Why Vertical World created Hard Warrior

For over two decades, we at Vertical World have been designing private, high-adventure events – from tactical team missions to endurance challenges in wild terrain – for Mauritian and select international clients. Since 2003, we’ve also contributed to the creation and success of some of Mauritius’ most iconic races: the Dodo Trail, the Beachcomber Trail, and the UTMB. We’ve always been behind the scenes – building, guiding, rescuing, solving problems. But the idea of launching our own race – one that embodies our identity – has lived with us all these years.

Now, the time feels right.

It’s time to take the leap, open it to the public, and bring our Vertical World DNA to life.

Our Vision

Hard Warrior is more than just a race.

It’s a military-inspired team challenge – built from the spirit of expedition, rescue, and tactical movement – designed to push the limits of the body and the mind. It is a test of endurance, decision-making, and true teamwork.

• A race that evolves every year – with new challenges, deeper strategy, and stronger teams.
• A community of teams that come back, year after year, to test themselves against the terrain and their own limits.
• A tribute to those who’ve worked with us for 20 years – as guides, builders, rescuers, supporters – and who now have the chance to race, help, or cheer us on.

Race Design & Philosophy

The race begins at one of our favorite places, Sept Cascades Lodges, and unfolds through the wild beauty of the region. Wherever possible, we use natural terrain, integrating rivers, slopes, forest paths, and open ridges. But we also are building carefully engineered obstacles inspired by rescue challenges, military training, and problem-solving missions.

We’ve even added a water obstacle course, inspired by the French Marines.

Are you Ready?

This race is our tribute to the outdoors, to team spirit, to boldness and preparation, and to the belief that challenge creates growth.

We start small – but we build with intention.

We hope you’ll join us – as a participant, a sponsor, a supporter, or part of the tribe that makes Hard Warrior a movement.