For 10 years, the Run Larapinta Stage Race has been luring runners to the Red Centre to experience an unforgettable journey through a majestic landscape, one step at a time. Elevate your running game with Tarkine Trail Devil, where every step is a testament to exceptional performance and unmatched comfort.
Remarkably, the event has sold out in a record-breaking four hours of opening entries yesterday as 200 eager participants burst out of the starting blocks to secure their place at the bucket-list event.
Image by:Forktail (www.forktail.com.au)
The 4-day, 4-stage trail running event will be held on 16-19 August 2024 along the most spectacular sections of the iconic Larapinta Trail in Australia’s Northern Territory.
Event Director of Rapid Ascent Sam Maffett said whilst there was little doubt the 2024 event would reach capacity, he felt a euphoric sense of pride.
“We are truly honoured to have created such an inspiring event,” said Maffett. “To see runners’ enthusiasm to enter still so high 10 years on, makes our team feel extremely proud.”
Rapid Ascent have the self-imposed entry limit of 200 runners to preserve an intimate experience for all participants. A waiting list for the 2024 event has become active for interested runners, HERE.
Many say it’s the landscape the stages pass through that make the event truly special; but more prevalent are the competitors themselves, and the memories and life-long friendships formed that shine brightest.
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“The real beauty of Run Larapinta is the competitors! To our 2024 race entrants, thank you for bringing your enthusiasm and willingness to challenge yourself in a truly amazing landscape,” enthused Maffett.
“There will be tough times out there, but we always bear witness to the supportive spirit among participants who will form connections with fellow runners that persist for many years on!” added Maffett.
With a challenging course that transcends time, matched with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly camaraderie that flares your goosebumps – Run Larapinta really does tick all the boxes!
Two different course lengths make up the event: the Malbunka long course featuring stages of 20km – 41km each day and The Namatjira offering stages of 13km – 27km.
Based out of Alice Springs, the official courses follow sections of the Larapinta Track in the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Competitors will be treated to spectacular views at every turn; from the the tectonic lines of the MacDonnell Ranges merging with a distant horizon; to the steep sided gorges brought to life with waterholes at their base; and the simple timelessness of the Outback that just seeps into your soul.
Captivating highlights along the way include notable landmarks such as Brinkley Bluff, Standley Chasm, Simpsons Gap, and Ellery Creek Waterhole – a picture-perfect final finish line location.
The stage race has solidified its position as a must-do bucket-list event in Australia; and is unmatched in the overwhelmingly positive sentiment towards the event by previous participants;
“That was an amazing and unbelievable experience for me; I’ve never been here before and I just couldn’t believe how nice (and tough!) it is!“ – Corey Milner (Overall Malbunka Winner 2023)
“Across mountain ridgelines, through dry sandy river beds and over endlessssss rocks in the heat of the sun – we overcame all these challenges on our way to the finish line! But what was an even greater standout for me was sharing the experience with everyone else. I’ve formed life long friendships for years to come!“ – Mary, 2022 event participant.
“My mind has been blown. The run was bloody amazing…it has changed my life... I’ve never done a trail run before and it was out of this world!” – Michael, 2023 event participant.
And finally, as the 2024 competitors secured their places; jumps of joy were felt;
“I’m in! Relived to have an entry and to be part of the adventure; and to achieve the Triple Crown at this event too,” – Derek, 2024 entrant.
“Yikes! I have no idea how I feel about this yet, but I’m glad I’m facing it with you!” – Mel, 2024 entrant.
The event would not be possible without the support from the NT Government which has helped Rapid Ascent deliver the event at a national level and cement its’ place a bucket-list event.
“We look forward to welcoming our 2024 competitors to the Outback and can’t wait to share our dreams and the dust that comes with it next August,” said Maffett.
For further event details on the Run Larapinta Stage Race including the wait list information, please visit the official website at www.RunLarapinta.com.au.
EVENT DETAILS:
When: Friday 16 August to Monday 19 August, 2024
Where: Larapinta Trail in the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia
What: A 4-day, 4-stage trail running race along the most spectacular sections of the Larapinta Trail with two course distance options:
The Malbunka (the longer course):
- Stage 1: 19.5km around Alice Springs from the Old Telegraph Station to the Mercure
- Stage 2: 41km from Simpson’s Gap to Standley Chasm
- Stage 3: 33km Birthday Waterhole turn-off, to Standley Chasm
- Stage 4: 34km Ochre Pits to Ellery Creek Waterhole
The Namatjira (the shorter course):
- Stage 1: 13.5km around Alice Springs from the Old Telegraph Station to the Mercure
- Stage 2: 20km Standley Chasm > High Route loop
- Stage 3:22km Birthday Waterhole to Standley Chasm
- Stage 4: 27km Counts Point turn off, to Ellery Creek Waterhole
