The Simpson Desert will soon have its very own ultramarathon taking place near Birdsville.
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The Simpson Desert Ultra was created by Birdsville local Jenna Brook, who wanted to provide an avenue for people to seek adventures outside their comfort zones and achieve what they perceive impossible.
The event will be staged on June 6 and 7, 2020 and comprises distances of 20km, 42km, 80km and 160km - providing something for those new to the outdoor adventure scene, as well as those more accustomed to the gruelling and enduring nature of ultramarathons.
Ms Brook said SDU brought together the best of the human spirit, in a unique and vast environment that most people would never had the opportunity to experience.
"The event will traverse the breath-taking terrain of the Simpson Desert with participants climbing towering red sand dunes and crossing vast rocky gibber plains under the glowing full moon," Ms Brook said.
Not one to leave the heavy lifting to others, in 2012 Jenna crossed the Simpson Desert on foot, climbing 1000 dunes across 435km, and followed it up by participating in the 250km Big Red Run which was also held in the Simpson Desert.
Ms Brook said although the desert can be an unforgiving environment, with the immense support and safety measures in place, she is confident that SDU can lend itself to ensuring that like-minded adventurers of any background or fitness level can successfully complete it.
"Participants will feel like they are a million miles from civilization taking in one of the last truly pristine environments in Australia under the vast desert sky," Ms Brooks said.
Ms Brooks, who is also one of the key organisers of the iconic Birdsville Races, is a strong advocate for people experiencing Australia's outback.
"The Simpson Desert is such a unique and beautiful part of the world that I am lucky enough to have in my backyard," Ms Brooks said.
"The tight knit local Birdsville community is strongly engaged with SDU, and the event is serving as inspiration to get people moving and be active in the outdoors," she said.
Registration is via the event website and opens on October 30th, 2019 at 10am AEST. Participant numbers are limited.
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