The best adventure races in Australia

What a weekend of sand, sweat, and adventure! The Fingal Bay Sprint Series proved once again why it’s one of the most exciting events for anyone looking to experience the thrill of an adventure race in NSW. With stunning coastal views, challenging courses, and just the right amount of misadventure, this race had everything that makes adventure racing unforgettable.

Racers took on two thrilling courses—Classic and Novice—each designed to showcase the breathtaking beauty of Fingal Bay while testing their endurance, navigation, and teamwork.

The Classic Course: A True NSW Adventure

The Classic course offered seasoned adventure racers a day to remember. Teams started with a paddle across to Fingal Island, where they trekked through scenic trails and explored the historic lighthouse. The paddle back to the mainland was just the warm-up for a short mountain biking section leading to a spectacular coastal run along rugged ocean trails.

But the real test came near the finish. Bonus checkpoints (CPs) 7 and 8 tempted teams with extra points, but the shortcut between them was no joke. Those brave enough to tackle the direct route faced a steep sand dune climb, followed by a rocky descent—all while lugging their bikes. The reward? Epic bragging rights and some very sore legs.

The Novice Course: A Perfect Intro to Adventure Racing in NSW

The Novice course offered an incredible introduction to the world of adventure racing. Teams kicked off with a mountain biking leg, followed by a trek through coastal terrain, and capped it off with a paddle into the heart of Fingal Bay. It was the perfect mix of challenge and fun, leaving many first-timers eager for more.

Missteps and Memories

As always, there were plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Teams discovered that shortcuts often lead to “longcuts,” with sand detours and unexpected rock scrambles adding an extra layer of adventure. But that’s what makes an adventure race in NSW so special—the ability to turn every challenge into a story worth telling.

Family Legends Take the Spotlight

This year, adventure racing legends took to the course with their kids, making it a true family affair. Tom and Jackson Landon-Smith dominated the Classic course, while Darren and Maya Smith showcased teamwork and heart in the Novice category. Watching families thrive in the adventure racing scene is what makes events like this so inspiring.

See You at the Next Adventure Race in NSW - Adrenalin Quest 21-23 February!

The full results are on the event website>>

More photos from the event are on the FB>> 

The Fingal Bay Sprint Series delivered everything we love about adventure racing—stunning landscapes, tricky navigation, and a vibrant community spirit. Huge thanks to all the racers, volunteers, and supporters who made it a success.

Ready for the next challenge? Join us for the Adrenalin Quest in Batemans Bay, February 2024, and keep exploring the incredible opportunities for adventure racing in NSW. Until then, train hard, embrace the challenges, and we’ll see you on the trails! 

For those eager for the next adventure, the next Victorian Sprint Series is scheduled for Anglesea 4 May; registration is open>>

• 2025:
• Sprint Series VIC Anglesea is on 4 May 2025>>
• Sprint Series QLD Gold Coast is on 21 September 2025>>
• Sprint Series Lysterfield Vic is on 5 October>>
• Sprint Series Lane Cove NSW is on 16 November>>

For other epic adventures, check out Adrenalin Quest on 21-23 February>> and X-Marathon on 30-31 August>>