The Evolution of Inward Bound: How It’s Adapted Over Six Decades
Maya Auld
Posted On October 11, 2024
By Maya Auld.
Inward Bound, one of the Australian National University’s (ANU) most unique and challenging inter-hall competitions, has evolved significantly since its inception. The event, which combines endurance, teamwork, and strategy, sees teams of runners “bushed” to an unknown location, then racing back to a designated endpoint across difficult terrain.
Originally founded in 1962, Inward Bound was designed to test the mental and physical resilience of ANU students with the ultimate goal of racing towards an ‘end point.’ Early races were simpler, with fewer participants and less regulation. As the university’s student population grew, the competition became more structured and inclusive, adapting to the needs and safety of a larger and more diverse student body.
One of the most significant shifts occurred in the 1990s, with the introduction of increased safety measures after a series of highly publicised injuries. Today, Inward Bound is hailed as a safe event, with the Board emphasising that “just because something is difficult doesn’t mean it is dangerous”.
The ANU Observer reached out to the Inward Bound Board and Race directors with a series of questions regarding the history, training, safety protocols and culture of the race.
Extensive safety protocols have been introduced over the years, including mandatory equipment lists, first aid qualifications for every team, first aid kits, and the use of GPS trackers. These measures are part of Inward Bound’s commitment to participant safety, making it one of the “safest ultramarathons in Australia”.
The introduction of satellite tracking technology, provided by YB Tracking, has significantly improved participant monitoring, ensuring that teams are always in contact with Race HQ. This technology allows “real-time updates and emergency communication, increasing safety while still preserving the challenge of the event”.
Despite the modernisation of safety measures, the adventurous spirit of the competition remains. However, the event has also become more diverse. While the competition was male-dominated in its early years, Inward Bound has since introduced policies aimed at increasing gender diversity and inclusivity. The 50% gender quota rule, introduced in 2021, ensures that no more than half of a squad’s scoring members can identify with the same gender.
As a result, “the number of female and non-male identifying runners has reached its highest level in 2024”. Efforts to ensure accessibility for participants with disabilities have also been expanded in recent years, making the event more inclusive than ever.
Inward Bound’s course design changes every year, but the core principles of safety remain consistent. The Board ensures that each route is carefully reviewed for participant accessibility, communication capacity, and emergency response capabilities.
After each event, a thorough review process evaluates course difficulty, completion rates, and safety features, allowing organisers to continuously improve the race’s design. While the 2023 race saw many teams unable to finish, this was largely due to mandatory cut-off times at checkpoints—measures designed to prevent teams from continuing into dangerous areas of the course.
Beyond the logistics, Inward Bound has always been a defining tradition at ANU, celebrated for fostering hall spirit and pushing students beyond their limits. It remains one of the most cherished and life-changing experiences for participants, with over 60 races held to date. As the Board reflects, “The runners this weekend will make memories that last a lifetime and will gain experiences they draw on for many years”.
Written by: Maya Auld
Graphics by: Shé Chani.
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