Half Marathon
About the race
The Half Marathon Course
The start of the Half Marathon course has you lining up just after the Marathon runners, with your back to Uluru – this means that you are perfectly positioned for an amazing “start line” photo!
Setting off and turning a quick right then left, you will climb the first dune of your adventure within the first 300m. The climb itself is easy and not very long, but the views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta are worth it once you get to the top. You will then drop down off the dune onto hard-packed trails for the next 6km.
Many parts of the course have names (many created specifically by the race organisers for the race), and you will find yourself at Dead Tree Corner after about 6 ½ kms. The next small dune awaits here, again with amazing views at the top. Harder-packed tracks await on the other side, with a few “trail-like” sections thrown in for good measure.
At 17km you will take a right-hand turn along the Longitude Loop, round the back of the world-famous (and ultra-exclusive) Longitude 131 hotel. A few small dunes await on this 3km section, but the views are worth it.
At the ends of this look you will take a left-hand turn and with just a kilometre left to go, you sheer energy of you run will see you glide all the way to the finish.
The entire course is relatively flat from a topographical point of view but there are a few little inclines here and there. A couple of short sand dunes also make an appearance and whilst they are not long or high they will certainly feel like a challenge when running up them. The views at the top will certainly make the effort worthwhile.
Please note that the course can be quite “sandy” and soft underfoot, depending on the weather conditions in the previous couple of months
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the date of the race?
The Australian Outback Marathon will always be held on the last Saturday in July. The dates for the next few years are:
- 2025 – 26th July
- 2026 – 25th July
- 2027 – 31st July
Can I simply enter the Australian Outback Marathon without purchasing a package?
Entries to the Australian Outback Marathon are only available as part of a Package and there are no “Entry Only” options available.
How can I participate in the Australian Outback Marathon if I am a local resident?
At the Australian Outback Marathon local participation is always welcome and this can take one of two forms:
- As an Entrant
Special provisions have been made for local entrants living in and around Yulara to participate in the Australian Outback Marathon. If you are a local resident please contact the Australian Outback Marathon directly for entry details at sales@australianoutbackmarathon.com. Note that proof of local resident status will be required. - As a Volunteer
Given the remoteness of the location, the Australian Outback Marathon could not be run without the involvement of the local community. If you would like to volunteer to help out on the day of the Marathon, please contact Travelling Fit directly at sales@travellingfit.com.
Can I transfer my booking to another person?
Once you have made your booking and the final payment has been made the booking cannot be transferred to another person.
What are the different distances that comprise the Australian Outback Marathon?
There are four different events for you to choose from
- 42.2km Marathon
- 21.1km Half-Marathon
- 11km fun run/walk (approximate distance)
- 6km fun run/walk (approximate distance)
We strongly encourage ALL participants to get involved in one of the events
What time do the events start?
- The Marathon and Half-Marathon will both start at approximately 7:45am.
- The 11km fun run and 6km fun run will start at approximately 8:30am
