Ready, set, go! Get your tickets for your trip Down Under and let the games begin!
Combining travel with sporting events is a sure fire way to inject some fun into any holiday. You can enjoy the excitement of the competitions and crowning of the winners — and in your downtime, soak up the sights and sounds of the destination. Mark your 2017 calendar for these sporting events in Oz.
2017 Total BWF Sudirman Cup, Gold Coast, Queensland
Remember how nerve-wracking and exciting it was cheering for the Malaysian badminton team at the Olympics? Well, get ready to do this again at the Total Badminton World Federation Sudirman Cup, which will take place from May 21 to 28. For the first time ever, the event will be held in Australia at the new Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre where the 2018 Commonwealth Games will also be held. Coming out in support of the local team is a good enough reason to make the trip but maximise your stay by enjoying the Gold Coast area, with its beautiful beaches, family-friendly theme parks, and delicious dining options.
Ultra-Trail Australia 2017, Blue Mountains, New South Wales
More of a competitor instead of a spectator? Sign up for Ultra-Trail Australia! This four-day trail running event takes place at the Blue Mountains National Park, two hours west of Sydney, from May 18 to 21. While the stunning views of landscape of rainforests, canyon, and heathlands will captivate you, the challenging trail will really take your breath away — especially if you participate in the 100 kilometres event, which features an elevation gain of 4,400 metres! For a less gruelling experience, you may opt to participate in the shorter distance events of either 50 kilometres or 22 kilometres.
Australian Outback Marathon, Yulara, Northern Territory
Here’s another marathon to add to your sporting calendar this year: The Australian Outback Marathon will be held on 29 July. Pick a run to suit your level of endurance – options include the full marathon, half marathon, 11km and 6km fun runs. You won’t want to miss this one because the stunning scenery will make it a bucket list experience. As your feet pound the rugged terrain of Australia’s Red Centre, you’ll be able to enjoy the awe-inspiring view of iconic attractions in Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience!
Pack your sneakers, binoculars and camera and prepare for some awesome sporting action, downunder style! Find the perfect flights to Australia here.
Pack your joggers and grab the best flights to Australia here.
Image courtesy australianoutbackmarathon.com