Locals will be Running Scared

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In what could resemble a scene out of Michael Jackson’s famous ‘Thriller’ video, the Sydney International Regatta Centre will be transformed into a horror-inspired obstacle course in May for the inaugural Running Scared event.

Dubbed Australia’s first 8km night obstacle race, Running Scared, organised by Fully Rad Adventures, will pay homage to the thriller, horror and paranormal genre.

Co-creator of Running Scared, Richard Old, said participants will need to run faster than normal as they try to escape zombies, vampires, werewolves and the occasional evil clown.

“There are similar events across the world such as Zombie Runs in the United States but we decided to evolve it and use the entire scary movie genre instead,” he said.

“To the best of our knowledge, no one is doing this anywhere in the world and certainly an obstacle race at night hasn’t been done before in this country.”

Unlike other obstacle race events, Penrith’s Running Scared will take place completely at night, enhancing the scare factor. The first wave will start at 6pm and the last wave will run at midnight.

The 8km course will have over 15 obstacles – all designed to test participants’ physical and mental strength. Obstacles will see participants jump, crawl, climb, wade, swim and of course scream.

“It’s all about the experience, so if someone comes to an obstacle and they’re not comfortable with it then there will be an option for them to work around it and continue with their team,” Mr Old said.

Mr Old said the idea for Running Scared was inspired by he and his business partner Danielle Donnelly’s love for outdoor adventure pursuits and horror movies.

To be part of the first ever Running Scared event on May 2 and 3 visit www.runningscared.com.au.

The cost is $85 per person.


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