10th Edition of Run Larapinta
The 4-day, 4-stage trail running event promises to be yet another memorable experience for runners alike as they take to some of the most spectacular sections of the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory.
Remarkably, the event sold out in a record-breaking four hours of opening entries in November last year with its’ sold-out status a testament to the events’ popularity, having cemented itself as coveted ultra trail running stage race.
Event Director of Rapid Ascent Sam Maffett is looking forward to the 10th edition.
“The real beauty of Run Larapinta is the enthusiasm from competitors, and we look forward to welcoming them to a truly majestic landscape for an unforgettable journey,” said Maffett.
The four-stage course is a captivating blend of natural beauty and physical challenge, and follows sections of the Larapinta Trail in the heart of the West MacDonnell Ranges, to the west of Alice Springs.
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, participants will encounter incredible landmarks such as Standley Chasm, Brinkley Bluff and Simpsons Gap.
The final Stage 4 on the Monday finishes at the serene Ellery Creek Waterhole where participants will get to cool off and celebrate their achievements with a refreshing dip and impromptu ‘pool-float’ party.

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.
“Whilst the landscape is absolutely stunning – think tectonic lines, spectacular gorges, and views that will imprint for years to come – it’s the people that come from far and wide that make this event what it is today,” said Maffett.
“We are all equal out there and the sense of camaraderie between runners is truly next level,” continued Maffett. “Each and every runner will come away with life-long friendships and will be blown away by what they can achieve when they cross the final finish line on Monday.”
Rapid Ascent have a self-imposed entry limit of 200 runners each year to preserve an intimate experience for all participants.
The event 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.
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.
“Northern Territory Major Events Company, is proud to support Run Larapinta Stage Race as a bucket-list event that attracts people from all over Australia to experience our unique and beautiful region, and we hope they leave with fond memories, and are keen to return!” said Northern Territory Major Events Company CEO Suzana Bishop.
Event images will be uploaded to the 2024 Dropbox from Saturday 17 August; with an overview media release circulated when racing concludes also.
For more information on the Run Larapinta Stage Race please head to the official website at www.RunLarapinta.com.au.