Surf Coast Trail Marathon adds new 8km event

A NEW 8km race will make the Surf Coast Trail Marathon more accessible this year, with organisers hoping the shorter distance encourages more people to try trail running.

The 20 June event will add the course alongside its traditional 21km and 42km races, giving newcomers a chance to experience the Surf Coast’s iconic trails without tackling a half or full marathon.

Race director Chris Ord said the new distance was designed as an achievable entry point for people keen to explore trail running.

“We’re looking forward to expanding the Surf Coast Trail Marathon to encourage those newer to trails, or even new to running, to get involved with the new 8km course,” he said.

“With so many events focusing on bigger distances, it’s easy to forget that a half marathon or a full marathon is still a big run and a huge achievement. And even then, for many just starting their running journey it may be not yet in reach.”

Starting at Urquharts Beach, runners will tackle a course that combines beach running, winding singletrack and coastal heathland, with views across Split Point Lighthouse and the dramatic red cliffs surrounding Aireys Inlet.

The route finishes with the event’s trademark staircase climb to the finish line at Fairhaven Surf Life Saving Club.

While the new distance aims to attract newcomers, Ord said the event remained committed to the traditional challenge of the half and full marathon.

“We like that Surf Coast Trail Marathon sticks to the old school traditional distances of full and half marathons,” he said.

“There’s something about ticking off your first at that distance that is special and we have found that our event has become a favourite target for ‘firsts’ for runners before they start eyeing off the ultras.”

The Surf Coast Shire is again backing the event through its event grants program.

Mayor Libby Stapleton said the event continued to deliver benefits for local communities during the quieter winter period.

“We love events that support our communities in the cooler months to give the local economy a welcome boost and to bring people together,” she said.

“The stunning course is a major drawcard for competitors.”

For more information, head to surfcoasttrailmarathon.com.au

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