Literally running wild, red sand underfoot to the magnificent back drop of Australia’s most iconic rock -  ‘Uluru’, will be what eager runners from around the world will be doing when they converge at Voyages Ayers Rock Resort to compete in the inaugural Australian Outback Marathon on 31 July 2010.

Set to be the first of many, the marathon and half marathon will comprise 10km and 5km courses through the stunningly beautiful ‘Heart of Australia’ from 29 July to 2 August 2010 with the main race taking place on the 31 July.  Predominantly off-road, participants will enjoy the challenge of pacing themselves along remote access paths and unsealed roads as well as through ancient bush trails and local tracks in what is described by organisers as “Australia’s first International Adventure Marathon”.

With breathtaking views of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) around almost every corner, this truly unique event will give runners of all levels the opportunity to experience the Australian Outback as its earliest inhabitants did, for over tens of thousands of years, by foot.

Voyages Ayers Rock Resort offers a range of accommodation to suit all competitors’ tastes and budgets, from camping and budget conscious accommodation at the authentic ‘Outback Pioneer Hotel and Lodge’ to the award winning ‘Sails in the Desert’ hotel and luxurious wilderness camp of ‘Longitude 131°’. With over 65 tours, local activities and attractions within the Resort and the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, ranging from dining under the stars to viewing sunrise astride a camel, runners and their enthusiastic supporters will have plenty of excuses not to race off once the marathon is over.