Surf Coast Century
Ultra Runners Gear up for Surf Coast Century’s 12th Edition
Press Release / 11.09.2023
The Surf Coast Century ultra marathon is gearing up for its 12th edition this Saturday, September 16, 2023 in Anglesea, Victoria. With an impressive 1300 participants, the event has firmly established itself as a must-do ultra trail marathon in Australia, drawing elite runners and relay teams from around the country.
650 competitors will be participating as individual runners in either the 100km or 50km courses; with the remaining field taking part in a relay team of two, three, or four runners over the 100km course, covering approximately 25km each.
The Surf Coast Century is said to be more than race – it’s a celebration of perseverance, camaraderie, and a course that encapsulates the breathtaking natural beauty of Victoria's Great Ocean Road region.
"It's more than just a race; it’s an opportunity for individuals and relay teams to challenge themselves and share an unforgettable journey together in a beautiful part of Australia." said Sam Maffett of event organisers Rapid Ascent.
Earning its’ reputation as one of Australia’s “bucket-list” ultra trail running events; it is mostly thanks to the event’s unique 100km ultra marathon course, ranking amongst the World’s most scenic!
The figure-8 course design course takes 100km competitors from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returning along the cliff top tracks and hinterland trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet; before heading back to Anglesea on the Surf Coast Walk trail, via Point Roadknight. Whilst the 50km course does the second-half of the 100km.
Amongst the individual participants is previous Surf Coast Century winner and 9-time participant Ross Hopkins, who believed Rapid Ascent put this type of race and distance on the ultra-trail running radar.
“I guess I was initially attracted to the challenge and hype of ultra running, but also that the event offered a beautiful course with great variation; it simply captured my attention!” said Hopkins, who first ran back in 2014.
Relay Team “Dads of the Century” is headed up by Torquay resident Stuart Jones, who has lured a team of fellow dads into the event;
“I’ve always loved the idea of the 100km Surf Coast Century course and the stunning beauty along the coastal trails,” said Jones. “I was fortunate enough to find a team of other dads at the Torquay Coast Primary school who were also keen to do the run.”
Up for grabs at the Century is the $2,000 cash on offer for the first and fastest team to break the 7-hour relay team course record. Team “Dawn League” were ever so close in 2022 clocking in just 17 minutes over.
For those who prefer to watch, an extensive event expo at the Anglesea Green will accompany the race. There are also recommended viewing and cheering spots along the coastal tracks for spectators to enjoy the action (details HERE).
The celebration continues the day after the race at the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club with presentations, recovery activities, BBQ, spectacle events and the Meli Kids Run (details HERE).
“We invite you to come and see just how good the ‘feel-good’ ultra is – whether as spectator or competitor!” said Maffett.
The event is supported by the Surf Coast Shire; with limited entries remaining for those up for a last minute challenge.
Entries and further event information can be found at www.SurfCoastCentury.com.au
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