The Great Kanku-Breakaways Bolt
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Race Schedule & Entry Fees
| Distance | Date | Start Time | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10km Cycling | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:00 | $20 |
| 21.2km Cycling | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:00 | $40 |
| 32km Cycling | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:00 | $40 |
| 76km Cycling | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:00 | $40 |
| Half Marathon | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:20 | $40 |
| Marathon | Sun, 07 Jun | 09:20 | $60 |
| 10km | Sun, 07 Jun | 11:00 | $20 |
| 5km Dash | Sun, 07 Jun | 12:00 | $20 |
| 2.5km Mini Bolt | Sun, 07 Jun | 13:30 | - |
Event Details
About This Event
An iconic outback event held in Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, 30km north of Coober Pedy. Run across the surreal "moon plain" alongside the dingo fence through ancient, multi-coloured breakaway formations. Distances from 2.5km to marathon, plus cycling options — free shuttle buses included.
Course Description
The course follows an out-and-back route through Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, departing from the main lookout and winding out to Angkata before descending the hill past the striking Two Dogs formation. From there, runners cross the iconic "moon plain" — a vast, eerily flat expanse of red earth — and run alongside the historic dingo fence before retracing their steps to the finish. The terrain is predominantly dirt track and open plain with some elevation change at the hill section. Aid stations with drinks, snacks, toilets and first aid are positioned throughout the course. The landscape is ancient, dramatic and utterly unlike anywhere else in Australia.
Quick Facts
Getting There
The event is held at Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park via the Stuart Highway, 30km north of Coober Pedy. Free shuttle buses depart from outside the Coober Pedy Council Offices on Hutchison Street at 8am, 9am, 10am, noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Buses run on a tight schedule — arrive early. Return shuttles depart the park every half-hour from 8:30am.
Weather & What to Pack
June is mid-winter in outback South Australia, making it ideal timing for an outback race. Average temperatures range from a minimum of 7°C to a maximum of 19°C — cool mornings give way to comfortable, sunny afternoons. The outback air is dry with very low humidity. Pack a warm layer for before and after your event as it can feel brisk at the 9am starts. Despite the cooler temperatures, UV levels remain significant — sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses are strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the start line?
Free shuttle buses run from the Coober Pedy Council Offices on Hutchison Street to Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park. Buses depart at 8am, 9am, 10am, noon, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Return buses leave the Breakaways at 8:30am, 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm. The trip takes approximately 30 minutes.
Can I enter on the day?
Yes — on-the-day entries are accepted up to 30 minutes before each event's scheduled start. Late entries are card payment only; no cash is accepted. All entry fees must be paid before collecting your race number.
Are there age restrictions?
Marathon entrants must be 18 years or older. The Ultra Marathon requires completion of an ultra marathon in the past two years. The 2.5km Mini Bolt is free for children under 12. Junior pricing (under 16) applies across the Half Marathon, 10km and 5km events.
Can I bring my dog or push a pram?
Yes — dogs on leads and prams are welcome on the course. Both must start at the rear of the field and must not obstruct other competitors. Children in prams must be registered for insurance purposes (no additional fee). Nuisance dogs will be removed from the park.
What's included with my entry?
All finishers receive a medal, and category winners receive unique trophies. Entry includes electronic timing, free access to the park for the day, a free community BBQ, and the free shuttle bus service to and from Coober Pedy. Aid stations with drinks, snacks, toilets and first aid are stationed along the entire course.
Last updated: 22 February 2026
