Last year saw the very first moonlight marathon in Alice Springs. On October 23rd 2021 we are back bigger and better. Set amongst the magical Macdonnell ranges on Arrernte country, run under the full moon and soak in all that Central Australia has to offer. 

The course will start and finish at Simpsons Gap (Darken Drive)***, it will be a three loop course on a CLOSED ROAD. There will be aid stations, with water and some race nutrition provided (ASRWC are cup free so please BYO cup or water bottle) but specific hydration or nutrition needs will need to be provided by the individual.

As always, safety is our number one priority for all of our runners and as such, participants are required to register prior to the event (no on  the day registrations) and wear a MANDATORY head torch. Hi visibilty clothing is encouraged. We will be ticking all participants off when they arrive and finish the run to ensure everyone is accounted for.

This event was created when COVID19 restrictions in 2020 resulted in the cancellation of the New York marathon. This left the Indigenous marathon squad of 2020 without a finish line to cross to become graduates. Alice Springs is the birthplace of the program, with it's first graduate being from here, so it was only fitting that this event be held in Alice Springs.

Alice Springs has a longstanding relationship with the Indigenous marathon foundation and the support the community provides is spectacular. More information on the foundation, including past and present squad members, can be found at https://www.imf.org.au/

Darken Drive will be closed from 6:30pm, participants and spectators are strongly encouraged to arrive prior to 6pm to attend the Welcome to Country. Spectators will be allowed to leave the event when they wish, but will need to drive at less than 20km/hour and give way to runners. We will be limiting the amount of cars moving along the road whilst the event is on for participants safety. We encourage car pooling to and from the event to assist with this. 

We look forward to seeing you at the second Moonlight Marathon Arrernte Country has held. Any questions, reach out to Ray Howard, Race Director via the Alice Springs Running and Walking facebook page.