The New York Times' reporter and avid marathon runner, Tom Sims, has added the 2012 Solar Eclipse Marathon to be held in Port Douglas on 14 November as a recommended race for athletes around the world.

Sims' article focused on the rare achievement made by just 300 people of completing a marathon on each of the seven continents; Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.

A number of local runners have already begun preparations for the event, which incorporates full and half marathons, and plan to be one of around 2000 runners from all over the world to be in Port Douglas to compete.

Both the full and half marathon courses will take in Four Mile Beach and the Mowbray, while the full marathon also incorporates the fear-inducing Bump Track.

Running has become a popular sport in the region, a fact highlighted by inaugural Great Barrier Reef Marathon in November 2011 which saw nearly 700 people take part, around 300 more than originally predicted.

For more information on the Solar Eclipse Marathon visit the website. 

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