Incredible times ahead at Run Larapinta Stage Race

Runners from across Australia and overseas are gearing up for the 2017 Run Larapinta Stage Race, a four-day, four-stage trail running race along the most spectacular sections of the Larapinta Trail near Alice Springs in the Northern Territory.

All the action begins Friday 11th August with a twilight night race and continues with racing each day, finishing on Monday 14th August

The event features races of two different lengths with The Malbunka being a long course option with stages between 20km and 45km each day, whilst The Namatjira provides a shorter option with stages varying between 11km and 30km over the four days.

Run Larapinta has become a drawcard for runners both recreational and elite; partly due to the
powerful allure of the Larapinta Trail with its incredible terrain and scenery, and the attraction of the challenge, adventure and accomplishment this unique stage racing event offers.

This year Run Larapinta will play host to Olympic triathlete Courtney Atkinson, Lap 4 Lives’ Aaron Royall who’s running 18 marathons in 8 months for mental health and New Zealand born-Australian based ultra runner Andrew Hedgman, amongst the many locals, first-timers and returning runners.

After racing a similar mountain bike stage race last year (called The Redback) endurance-adventure athlete Atkinson said he was in awe of the unique terrain the Red Centre offered.

“It’s just an amazing place in Australia to be and do these endurance style multi day events. The course is perfect to have my first experience over the Larapinta Trail and gain race fitness that you can't get in training.”

Ultra runner Andrew Hedgman said he was constantly looking for new adventures so was pretty happy to find out about Run Larapinta. “Usually I have to look overseas for a similar race so it will be great to finally do one here!” Hedgman said.

“I find these types of races just so extraordinary and exciting, I’m looking forward to the scenery and making new friends; I love the diversity that these types of races bring.”

The event was first held in 2015 when 78 runners took part, 116 runners participated in the 2016 edition and over 130 are expected to compete in 2017.

Adventure Sports Event Management company Rapid Ascent General Manager Sam Maffett said he couldn’t wait to welcome the runners to Alice Springs for the third edition of Run Larapinta.

“We love giving competitors experiences they will not easily forget. The quality of the running along the Larapinta Trail, combined with the incredible setting and the friendly camaraderie between competitors makes it an exceptional experience for all participants,” Maffett said.

“Ultra marathons are growing in popularity around the country but we still have very few stage races, so the Run Larapinta race is unique in Australia – it also provides the ideal opportunity for runners to combine their love of running with a visit to one of the most spectacular destinations in Australia, the Red Centre.”
For more information about the Run Larapinta Stage Race head to RunLarapinta.com.au