The Back Markers Project

WE ALWAYS CELEBRATE THE WINNERS – BUT THERE’S SO MUCHMORE TO EVERY RACE. THIS STORY IS ABOUT THE SLOWEST ULTRA-MARATHON RUNNERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD.

- Kelvin Trautman

As one of South Africa’s top adventure photographers, Kelvin Trautman knows more about the pain and agony of running an endurance event than most. He’s followed everyone, from the frontrunners to the DNFs, in some of the world’s biggest endurance-running events.

Eighteen months ago, Trautman embarked on a personal project aimed at documenting those runners who never see the limelight at these events – those who finish at the back of the field. He called it The Backmarkers Project.

“It quickly became a human condition story, and not a running story,” he says.

Here, Trautman shares some of his favourite backmarker images – and the insights he’s acquired along the way.

How far do you run, and what gear do you use?

I run with the backmarkers from start to finish, and document their journey with one camera and one lens - a 35mm fixed lens, as that’s the closest focal length to the human eye. A real-world perspective.

Why only one lens and one focal length?

I wanted to limit myself creatively, so I’d have to work harder, like the people around me… and secretly, it also means I don’t have to carry more camera gear and lenses!

Why black and white images only?

B&W is reductive; and again, sets a very simple and direct tone.

Are there any other forms of media you use to tell this story?

After the race, I work with a band of writers; together we interview the backmarkers, to better understand the motives behind their running. (If you’re a writer or backmarker and are keen to get involved, let us know, at kelvin@ kelvintrautman.com.) We’re also working on a short documentary.

TENTATIVE STEPS