Absolute Fitness Professionals: Vanuatu

VANUATU RELAY RUN, JULY 25, 2009.

What are you training for this year?

Absolute Fitness Professionals (AFP) is seeking entries from Runners keen to make up a team or teams to enter into the Vanuatu Round Island Relay Race.

If you are looking for a training event with a difference and would like a mid year break, then the Vanuatu Round Island Relay Run is a great opportunity for you. AFP already has one team confirmed in the Vanuatu Round Island Relay and are currently recruiting for a second.

The Vanuatu Round Island Relay is a challenging event, but an achievable and rewarding experience. Anyone who is keen to participate is welcome, regardless of your fitness level or running skill. AFP has designed a running training program aimed at building your running skills over the next few months, which includes weekly team runs.

AFP has participants staying in Vanuatu for between four to ten nights following the event, who are looking forward to a well deserved mid-winter break in this beautiful tropical paradise, as well as competing in the running event, of course.

AFP is proud to participate in this event in order to raise much needed funds for the Vanuatu Children’s Hospital. As such, any donations or expressions of interest for sponsorship are warmly welcomed. Please do not hesitate to contact Dieter on 9572 2456.

ABOUT THE RACE

Relay races don’t come much more challenging than the Vanuatu Round Island Relay, one of the world’s truly unique running experiences. The Relay is a 10 person relay race around Vanuatu's main island of Efate and was first staged to celebrate Vanuatu’s Independence in July 1980.

The ten stages of the race are not equal distances, but based on landmarks and terrain, with short hilly sections (the shortest is a hilly 11.6Km) and longer flat sections of up to 16Km. Road conditions vary from sealed to rugged coral and dirt roads. The route passes through traditional villages, taking in mountain rainforest, crosses crystal clear streams, and passes through coconut plantations. The latter stages of the race take runners along the edge of coral reefs and white sand beaches, offering breathtaking views.

BASIC INFORMATION

The event is on Saturday 25th July 2009.
10 person Relay Race 138km.
Each year there are approximately 30 teams entered, most are made up of local runners, but for the last 5 years approx 6-8 international teams have entered. The relay has been going for many years and relay day is a festival atmosphere on the whole island. The local teams are well trained and very competitive.
AFP already have one team of runners attending.
AFP is currently recruiting for a second team. Ability is not as important as willingness to have a go and be part of a fun long weekend with like minded people.
AFP has designed a running program aimed at building up your running skills over the next few months if required, including weekly team runs.
Flights are with Qantas or Air Vanuatu, packages are available from Melbourne, and pricing can be quoted.
Non-running Spouses, partners and children are welcome.
2009 Vanuatu Race website coming soon.

If you are interested in participating or want further details on the Relay, training, flights or accommodation then please contact:

Dieter Roylance

E	dieter@afp.com.au
T	9572 2456
M	0409 774 479