Just returned from the Outback Marathon with Marathon Tours. I strongly recommend the event and the tour company. Ann was my trip advisor and Jeff was the man on the ground at the event. They were both seamless.
I did the London Marathon with Marathon Tours in 2014 and booked my extra days in London on my own. This was a mistake as the hotel arranged by Marathon Tours was vastly superior and when you factored in the taxes and the breakfast, the Marathon Tours rate was better. I did not make that mistake with the Outback Marathon. Ann arranged my extra nights, tax and breakfast included, for $120 per nigh less then the best on-line price.
The Outback Marathon is the worst marathon I have ever run. The terrain is tough and I beat my personal worst time by over 90 minutes. However, it is the best running experience of my life. The course is challenging but the people are fantastic.
The lead up was very well organized. We had a couple of pre race dinners. As a solo traveller, I was made to feel very welcome. Jeff from Marathon tours was great. He helped me meet other runners and make the most of the experience.
This is a small race of about 300 competitors of which about 180 are marathoners. So, there is a real sense of community. The volunteers and staff were dedicated and supportive. The aid stations, at every 3 km, were staffed with happy and encouraging people who made a huge difference. I got to meet some fantastic people. It is a remarkable experience to run in the desert. I would highly recommend it.
TIP: Practice running in sand on uneven surfaces. Running on soft sand is tough. We run marathons because of the challenge. The greater the challenge, the greater the accomplishment. This marathon will not disappoint.
MIchael