The Anaconda event is dubbed the largest adventure race in the world.

Such was the success of last year’s event, attracting more than 4000 competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators to the region, it has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Australian Event Awards, going head to head with the Australian Tennis Open and the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

In 2009, the event will kick off with a 13.5km coastal run from Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, a 1.9km ocean swim, 13km Inlet and Ocean Paddle, followed by a 32km Mountain Bike stage, culminating with a 2.5km Team Run to the finish.

Shire president Steve Harrison said it was important that the shire supported these types of large scale events.

“With this event, we not only the benefit from a race weekend, but there are two lead up familiarisation tours thereby increasing the spin offs into the local community,” Cr Harrison said.

To show that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to complete, the shire and Margaret River police have combined to tackle the endurance race.

Corporate and Community Services director Cary Green, manager for Community Development, Paul Gravett along with police representatives Sergeant Stuart Mearns and Constable John Daniels have joined forces to create the formidable Pens and Guns outfit.

The race also incorporates a large adventure expo of sponsors’ displays, children’s entertainment, food and fun being staged at the finish line in Turner Caravan Park.

As a preliminary to the big race, a Junior Survivor event will be staged on Saturday, November 7 over a modified course.

Visit www.internationaladventureraceser ies.com or contact Paul Gravett on 9780 5218.