About the Race

Inward Bound is a team navigation and endurance race, organised by ANU students and volunteers. It traces back to World War II survival training for downed pilots: dropped somewhere unfamiliar, with only map, compass and teammates to get out.

How It Works

1. Blindfolded departure

   Teams are transported to an unknown location.

2. Identify the Dropsite

   Teams use maps, course information, and navigation skills to determine where they are.

3. Choose a route

   Each team plans its own route towards Endpoint.

4. Travel as a team

   Four runners navigate and move together through the course.

5. Reach Endpoint

   Teams race towards a finish location that changes each year.

Format & Distance

Teams of four run together for the whole race. After finding the Dropsite, teams travel unsupported for roughly 30–100km to reach a secret Endpoint — the distance and terrain depend on the year's course and each team's own route choice.

Inward Bound runs in several divisions catering to different experience levels — for current divisions and entry requirements, seeRunner Information.

Where It's Been

Endpoint and course locations change every year. Recent races have used:

• Orroral Valley, ACT
• Maloneys Beach, NSW South Coast
• Denison Campground, Kosciuszko National Park, NSW

See History & Results for confirmed Endpoints by year.

Safety & Environmental Responsibility

Because teams travel unsupported through the bush, navigator qualification and safety preparation are part of entry — see Runner Information for what's required before race day. Teams are expected to run with minimal environmental impact and to leave the course as they found it.