It's Game on with the NT Outback Games

It's Game on with the NT Outback Games

The Northern Territory is looking for competitors to participate in the NT Outback Games, a national contest where Aussies will be put through a series of unique challenges to prove their state has what it takes to beat Territorians at their own game. From swimming with crocs to running a marathon in thongs (well, sort of), it's a chance for adventurous Aussies to compete on a national stage for Territory glory.

Would-be competitors can get a taste for the laid-back feel of the events via a series of new videos, before heading to the NT Outback Games Facebook app to win a place representing their state or territory in the Games. Successful entrants will be flown to Darwin - Lonely Planet's choice as one of the Top Ten Cities to visit in 2012 - to compete on 1 September.

NT Outback Games ambassador comedian Mick Molloy will provide commentary for the Games, which are set to bring a 'Territorian' twist to the sporting landscape.

"This is set to be the biggest sporting event of the year," said NT Outback Games Ambassador Mick Molloy.
"From Tennant Creek to Katherine to Alice Springs, the whole of the Northern Territory has come together in support of the NT Games."

"If your thongs are in good nick, you're not afraid of crocs, have an uncanny ability to control camels, or can tear up the sand with your soccer skills, then test yourself against the locals at the NT Games."

The four events featured in the new videos will provide the basis for the NT Outback Games and are:

Camel Equestrian - Inspired by the camel trains around Alice Springs in the Red Centre, this twist on classic equestrian events challenges a camel jockey's control over a stubborn and uncontrollable beast.

Thong Marathon - Running is easy. Running in thongs is not. This Tennant Creek tradition requires the runner to master the balance between the flip and the flop. Carefully guarding against a blow-out, runners will compete for the title of the fastest man/woman on rubber.

Sandbar Soccer - Set against the rolling tides of Darwin's Harbour, the sandbar soccer tournament will take place with a backdrop of the luminescent setting sun, in a bid to score the winning goal before the tide knocks competitors off their feet.

Waterhole Swimming - Forget training. What's more motivating for a fast time than the threat of a three metre croc bearing down on you as you go through the paces of the 50 metre freestyle? We'll see which one of our competitors delivers when the pressure is on.

Official sponsor of the NT Outback Games, Territory Discoveries are providing short break deals for the Top End and Red Centre, which also feature on the Facebook App, so that fans of the Games can support their fellow compatriots in September.

Watch the videos now on YouTube and enter the games now on Facebook