The Round Island Relay was first staged as one of the sports events organised to celebrate Vanuatu’s Independence in July 1980.  Three teams of 10 runners raced around the island, a feat that many locals at the time thought impossible, symbolically linking the villages en route.

The ten stages of the race are not equal distances, but based on landmarks and terrain, with short hilly sections (the shortest is a hilly 11.6Km) and longer flat sections of up to 16Km. Road conditions vary from sealed to rugged coral and dirt roads.

The route passes through traditional villages, taking in mountain rainforest, crosses crystal clear streams, and passes through coconut plantations. The latter stages of the race take runners along the edge of coral reefs and white sand beaches, offering breathtaking views.

Sandalwood Power 2 runner gets a village welcome at Sama 2008

Members of Sandalwood Power 1, Nalkutan, FANC and Lakuei at the 2008 finish