The format
X-Marathon is a non-stop adventure race, teams embark on a continuous, multi-disciplinary journey that tests their endurance, navigation skills, and teamwork.
The race kicks off with all teams starting together, and they progress through a series of stages, or "legs," one after the other without designated rest periods—think of it as a marathon on adrenaline and caffeine!
Along the way, teams encounter a few Transition areas where they can swap out gear, replenish their food and water supplies, and prepare for the next leg of the race.
Detailed logistics, including the course layout, is provided about ten days before the event to ensure teams arrive at the event HQ maximum prepared and pre-packed.
The exact course is revealed at 6 PM on Friday when maps are available for collection at the race HQ (or at 7 PM Saturday for Mini course).
The course is designed to minimise logistical burdens, allowing participants to immerse themselves fully in the adventure and push their limits in an unrelenting quest for the finish line. So, lace up those boots, and get ready for an epic journey where every moment is a chance to reach new heights, share a few laughs, and embrace the true spirit of exploration!
The course
The course is determined by checkpoints (CPs)
Teams will use topographical fire trail maps, orienteering maps and satellite images to navigate between checkpoints. You receive course maps when you register at the race HQ.
Race organisers will transport your gear between transition areas , where you swap from one discipline to another and can access extra equipment and food you packed before the start.
Course options
FULL (24h), HALF (12h) or MINI (4h)
The FULL course is designed for those who are up for an overnight challenge.
Teams of two and four can travel up to 26 hours to cover approximately 120 km. We expected the winning team to finish the course within 20 hours.
Approximate Full course distance:
- Trekking: 20 km
- Mountain biking: 65km
- Paddling: 25 km
Some checkpoints on the FULL course will be optional. Visiting those checkpoints will give teams bonus time (this time will be deducted from their racing time).
The HALF course is a little bit more accessible but still challenging
The HALF Course will suit those who prefer a shorter (under 80km) version with less (or no) racing in the dark. In this variant, we expect the leaders to finish in around 6-7 hours, while other teams can stay on a course for up to 12 hours.
The HALF Course will suit teams with less experience and not ready for overnight racing. Don’t worry; this is still a challenging experience. Do not underestimate it! As in the FULL and HALF courses, you can race in a team of four or two.
Approximate HALF-course distance:
- Trekking: 15 km
- Mountain biking: 50 km
- Paddling: 15 km
Some checkpoints on the Half course will be optional. Visiting those checkpoints will give teams bonus time (this time will be deducted from their racing time).
The MINI course is an introductory option suitable for everyone
The navigation will be achievable for first-time comers, and the length is manageable for all levels, including family teams (a child over ten racing with an adult). The MINI course is only open for teams of two.
Approximate MINI course distance:
- Trekking: 6 km
- Mountain biking: 15 km
- Paddling: 4 km
The disciplines
The course will consist of trekking, mountain biking, and kayaking. You will be trekking on trails, walking tracks and off-road.
Paddling legs will be on the lake and a river (flat water only), while mountain bike sections will include rough 4wd trails, single tracks and minor bitumen sections. Our philosophy is to avoid traffic and bitumen.
The kayaks
Teams are provided with double kayaks, paddles for half and Mini courses, and paddles for Full courses.
The course planner
The logistics planner will be released two weeks before the race, leaving you time to plan your strategy and what to pack in which box (we will deliver the gearboxes to certain transition areas). You will only find out the exact course when you receive the maps. That should get your adrenaline pumping!
All teams will receive the course map during the onsite check-in and will have just a few hours to plan their route. You’ll need to embrace a spirit of adventure, and you need to be prepared for anything!
While on the course, team members must stay within 100 m of each other for the entire race. If one team member pulls out, that team will not receive an official finishing place but may still be allowed to continue unranked if two members are keen to keep going.
The winner will be the first team to navigate all the checkpoints and cross the finish line with all team members.
This race will undoubtedly test your durability, both physically and mentally.
Previous editions, or how it could be
Check out 2018 wrap up below, or version with sound on youtube>>
