Magnificent Running Ahead at the New Margaret River Ultra Marathon

Press Release / 04.09.2017

A brand new event is coming to the west coast that boasts 80 kilometres of magnificent trail running through one of the Australia's most beautiful regions; Margaret River in south-west Western Australia.

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon will take runners on a journey through a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes, starting at Hamelin Bay in the south and finishing at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery at Wilyabrup in the north, on 5th May 2018.

The 80km point to point course can be completed by solo runners or relay teams of up to five people who each run a different leg of the route. Along the way the competitors will traverse an incredible range of landscapes including awe-inspiring Karri tree forests, cliff top trails with endless ocean views, white sandy beaches, quaint coastal villages and rolling hinterland terrain.

Runners from across Australia and overseas are expected to travel to Margaret River for this extraordinary event which has been designed as an achievable challenge for all levels, from elites through to trail running newcomers who can divide the 80km distance into a relay with the five different legs varying between 10km and 20km.

The Margaret River Ultra Marathon is organised by Rapid Ascent, a Victorian events management company that also conducts the Surf Coast Century ultra marathon in Victoria and the Act-Belong-Commit Augusta Adventure Fest in WA, amongst many other off-road races around Australia.

General Manager Sam Maffett from Rapid Ascent said the variety of landscapes and terrain types that the course will pass through will keep runners interested from the start to finish 80km away. "South West WA is a beautiful area with a great reputation for holiday makers and when you run the course you can see why – it's just beautiful! The course traverses such a diverse range of landscapes whilst remaining accessible and within easy reach of the wineries, cafes and beaches that the area is famous for," Maffett said.

"Ultra marathons are increasing in popularity the world over and the 80km distance places it within reach of many runners, and with the relay team also an option it makes the event achievable for nearly all runners. Combine this accessibility with the beautiful landscapes and popularity of the Margaret River region and we think the event will be a great success."

Local course consultant Rob Goyen believes it will offer runners something that they have never seen before in Western Australia. "Trust me this is one not to miss. The changing terrain and views are so unique to the Margaret River region. The reds in the trees, and the iconic rock expanses alongside the crystal blue ocean and white sand is something that needs to be seen. "If you are an elite ultra runner or just a weekend warrior who wants to run somewhere really unique this is for you.

"The Rapid Ascent team is 100% focused on putting together a fantastic course no matter what logistics are involved and this is no different, it's really runnable and balanced in regards to being able to get a good stride going and earning your reward at the end."

The event provides the ideal opportunity for runners to combine their love of running with a visit to one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations with the region being world famous for its wines, vineyards, art galleries and nature based activities throughout the area.

The variety of the terrain, combined with the incredible setting will make it an exceptional experience for all participants.

This is a 'full service' event with all the customer service considerations you'd expect from an industry leader, including transport, well stocked checkpoints with food and drinks, a marked and marshalled course and stop off points for spectators and support crews that will allow non-runners to take in the best of the landscape as well.

For an extraordinary running holiday, check out the Margaret River Ultra Marathon at www.MRUltramarathon.com.au   

EVENT DETAILS:

When: Saturday 5th May 2018
Where: Margaret River, South-West Western Australia What:  An 80 kilometre ultra marathon with two options; Solo 80km or relay team of 2-5 runners  doing one (or more) legs each.

Provisional leg breakdown:

Leg 1: 10.5km Hamelin Bay to Boranup Campsite
Leg 2: 18km Boranup Campsite to Lake Cave. Total: 28.5km
Leg 3: 19.5km Lake Cave to White Elephant Café, Total: 48km
Leg 4: 14km White Elephant Café to Ellensbrook Homestead. Total: 62km
Leg 5: 18km Ellensbrook Homestead to Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery. Total: 80km

Find out more at www.MRUltramarathon.com.au

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