While the target for some is to be first across the line, the Kona Mawson MTB Marathon is designed to have you, your support crew and spectators enjoying themselves as you put yourself to the test, perhaps beyond what you thought you could achieve.

If you're here simply for the personal challenge and the general camaraderie, you can still support the others who are riding non-stop. Your calls of encouragement are sometimes all that keeps them going; that and the thought of being on the podium and walking away with a portion of the massive prize pool.

There are many great locations along the Mawson Trail, perfect to view the action and enjoy the spectacular scenery. The Staging Posts are in busy towns (or in the case of Rawnsley Park, a busy tourist park), where there's plenty to keep you occupied and nourished. Apart from the essentials (first aid and shelter), there'll be a great atmosphere with a few tunes and plenty of buzz. There will even be the occasional handful of jellybeans to grab as you pass through. Anything and everything to keep your legs pumping.

Come up with a unique theme and dress your team and support crew in some stand-out garb and reap the respect of your fellow riders and maybe earn yourself an award for bravery. Outfits that challenge the principals of streamlining also earn a special mention. Everything from the brightest clothing to reindeer suits, Little Red Riding Hood, Wedding clothes, Pyjamas and togas have been seen on the trails in the past to great effect. It may be we're even graced with the presence of the Mawson Man, the mythical mountain biker sometimes seen in these parts, most often at dusk, riding in the distance just off the Mawson Trail wearing nothing but an Australian Standards bicycle helmet. You have been warned.