Falls Creek Mountain Raid Returns

News Release / 12.09.2014

Falls Creek’s adventure playground will again host the Falls Creek Mountain Raid adventure race and trail runs in February 2015, following the success of the first event earlier this year.

Rapid Ascent is excited to launch the second edition of this event which features a two-day, off-road navigational adventure race and a trail running festival. The trail running component of the event has been expanded to include four trail runs.

“The feedback from Falls Creek Resort Management and the event competitors was really positive after the first event so it’s great to continue it into 2015,” said Sam Maffett, General Manager of Rapid Ascent.

“The 2015 event is set to be even bigger and better with the event reputation growing and the inclusion of more trail running options.

“I encourage trail runners and adventure buffs to check it out as it’s designed for athletes of all levels, not just the elite,” said Maffett.

The Mountain Raid Adventure Race is a two-day, two-stage navigational adventure race where teams of four race together. The course features superb alpine trails, mountain biking on flowing single track, paddling on the stunning Rocky Valley Lake, and a few other surprises along the way.

Teams work together to navigate their way around this challenging adventure course, finding a number of checkpoints along the way.

The Long Course will consist of 85 – 120km of off-road adventure and will involve more mountains, more single track and slightly harder navigation, including some ‘cross-country’.

The Short Course is approximately half the distance and will be a bit easier to navigate. It is designed for newcomers to adventure events and younger participants.

Held in conjunction with the adventure race is a series of four trail running races that provide the opportunity for running enthusiasts to experience the spectacular alpine trails. Runners can do up to three of the four events.

On Saturday morning will be a 10km Alpine Ash Run that passes through some magnificent parts of the Falls Creek ski area, giving runners a ‘Grand Tour’ of the resort.

Saturday afternoon will feature the 3km Summit Sprint, taking runners from Slalom Plaza, up through the village and the Summit Bowl to ring the bell at the very top, and then back down to finish at the event expo area in Slalom Plaza.

On Sunday morning, runners can choose from the 19km Heathy Spur Run or the shorter 9.6km Rocky Valley Run. Both courses will lead runners along scenic alpine trails featuring sections of forest, great views and fields of wild flowers.

“Falls Creek is thrilled to be hosting the second Mountain Raid in February 2015,” said Jo Prothero, Falls Creek Marketing and Communication Manager.

“It is an honour to share the unique resort surroundings with the competitors who take on the challenge across the 2 days and get to take it all in,” continued Prothero.

Entries are now open online, with further details including event information, course details, accommodation, kayak hire and more available atwww.MountainRaid.com.au.

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