The Inverness area is bracing itself for international attention this May as host of Europe's toughest and premier adventure race - the Adrenalin Rush.

Up to fifty mixed-sex teams from around the world are due to take part in the seven-day 300-mile non stop event, using a combination of micro navigation, walking, running, kayaking, fixed rope ascending and descending, swimming, mountain biking and a few surprises along the way.

The first Adrenalin Rush was held in Northern Ireland in May 2000, followed by Scotland in 2001 and Ireland 2002.  This year's event is expected to boost the profile of the Inverness area internationally through satellite television coverage, overseas audiences and participants. It will also create a number of short-term jobs locally.

It is being backed by a host of organisations including Inverness and Nairn Enterprise (INE) and The Highland Council, with private sector sponsorship from Red Bull and Lythgoes OSP.

Acting chief executive of INE, Stuart Black, said:  "This is a major high-calibre international sporting event and I am delighted that INE has been able to help bring it to the Highlands.  As well as generating a number of spin-off benefits for the local economy, it will give a huge boost to the profile of the area as a good place to live, work and visit."

The Highland Council will provide the winning trophies and access to sports training facilities in and around Inverness. The Inverness area culture and sports manager, Gunars Libeks, said: "We are delighted to welcome Europe's premier adventure race to the Highlands. This is a great opportunity for us to showcase just why so many adventure sports enthusiasts enjoy holidays in the Highlands. This will be a really exciting and challenging event and we are certainly looking forward to seeing the top teams in Europe tackle some of the most spectacular challenges in the world."

Race director, Brian Elliott, whose company Adventure Sports One, organises the Adrenalin Rush, welcomed the support.  He added: "I feel privileged to be afforded the opportunity to hold the race in such a stunning and dramatic setting as the Highlands. It has been my ambition to stage the event here and showcase the region as one of the most beautiful locations in the British Isles.

"Although this is a serious international race it is also a journey that will remain with the competitors for life. In my role as race director and course planner I devise a route which will be tough but also include significant historical locations. I am certain beyond any doubt that this will be the most spectacular event run to date."