Inward Bound

Inward Bound (IB) is a navigation-based endurance footrace held annually in the natural surrounds of Australia national capital, Canberra. IB challenges the physical and emotional stamina of participants in a unique format that is both safe and exciting. Participants, in teams of four, must use traditional map-and-compass navigation skills to plan the route, covering distances between 30 and 100 k

m, that will lead them to end point. The mountain trails and tracks on which IB courses are set are all in the ACT or NSW mountain areas surrounding Canberra. IB is an important event for building the Australian National University (ANU) community and therefore, participants must be either staff or students of the ANU. Traditionally, there are over 200 participants, who on arrival at end point are greeted by more than 500 delighted and enthusiastic supporters. Many former participants acknowledge the significance of IB suggesting it is a rare and life-changing opportunity to experience and appreciate the local environment in a unique, engaging and unparalleled way. Leadership, teamwork, resilience, self-confidence and motivation are just some of the qualities participants have the opportunity to develop both during the months of rigorous pre-event training and the trials and tribulations encountered and surmounted during the race. IB by its very nature, promotes fitness, healthy living, dietary and environmental awareness. IB has a long history, having endured more than 50 annual events. As a corollary, there are thousands of participants who regard their IB experience as a memorable and significant component of their ANU, Canberra and Australian experience. Safety is of paramount importance for the IB race organisers, which means all teams must carry safety equipment for use in emergencies. Whilst GPS tracking and communication equipment is supplied by race organisers, participants must provide other essentials including first aid supplies and cold and wet weather clothing. Race HQ monitors all teams closely and works with local emergency authorities to ensure appropriate recourse are available for any emergencies. IB could not proceed without the generosity of landholders, who provide permission for runners to follow tracks and trails through their properties. This generosity is greatly appreciated as it rewards participants with breathtaking scenery and challenging route choices. Race organisers in their quest for this private land access ensure that participants operate under the ‘leave no trace’ principle. Similarly, race organisers and participants are highly appreciative of the support offered by the event sponsors. The support of the wider community ensures all aspects of IB are delivered to the highest standard in order to uphold the prestigious reputation and the growing historical significance to the ANU and the nation’s capital.