Malnad Ultra - 50 Km

Registrations just opened for 2025, thinking about doing 50 Km, 1705m. Just finished Sinhagad Epic Trail 30 Km, endured and recovered well. I've started running seriously since January 1st, logged in 43 runs before SET which was my longest distance and first trail run. Had fun and looking do more, choosing my first Ultra.

While exploring ITRA website, Solang SkyUltra seemed enticing, dismissed that idea. Garmin says my VO2 max is 36. High Altitude Ultra is out of question till I improve VO2 max. Can you suggest a good Ultra after September?

Elevation profile for Malnad Ultra is similar to SET but cut off is a bit challenging. 50 Km night event gives an extra hour (11 hrs total), assuming that extra hour might be useful. Anyone who did it before, can you please share your experience ?