Hardy runners will gather at the Beachport jetty at 6am tomorrow for the start of the third annual Australia Day Sandy Crack Ultramarathon.

This type of race is regarded as a low key, social run where there is no entry fee, no prizes, minimal support and minimal course markings.

Staged by Millicent Runners, the 54km run will finish near the Fisherman’s Memorial at the Robe Marina.

The route will follow the bitumen of Bowman Scenic Drive and then turn into the marked sandy 4WD tracks and beaches of the Beachport Conservation Park.

At approximately 28km the route passes through Nora Creina which may have access to water.

It is regarded as a great spot for family or friends to provide support.

The next 26km follows 4WD tracks and beaches and enters Robe via the Stoney Rise Track and Robe Street.

The first runners are due in Robe mid-afternoon but this will be weather-dependent.

Runners will need to carry all their nutrition and fluid needs as well as clothing and other running supplies to make sure they can make it to the end.

There may be a few water drops along the course but these cannot be relied upon.

Earlier this month, the Millicent Runners staged the annual Southend/Beachport beach run which had 20 participants.