Sand running is tough at the best of times but the recent big swells along the Merewether-Bar Beach stretch which makes up the Big Beach Challenge course have resulted in some extra challenging changes to the surface of the beach.

Expect more soft sand and less hard, wet sand, but before you grimace just think it adds to the toughness of the event.

The Big Beach Challenge will be held on the final day of Newcastle’s iconic festival of surfing Surfest, which is celebrating its 30th year and is sure to have plenty of spectators.

Watch out for the Anytime Fitness crew who will have a strong presence on the sand.