Online entries open for Surf Coast Century

ONLINE entries have opened for the 2020 Surf Coast Century and hosts Rapid Ascent were blown away by the response, given the present uncertainty surrounding coronavirus and the flow-on effect to the local economy.

“It was reassuring to see so many entries coming in despite the threat of Coronavirus and expected economic downturn for the first quarter of 2020. I think it was a direct vote from the ultra-runner community, who are an incredibly tough and resilient group of people,” race director Ascent Sam Maffett said.

The event was launched with hope the coronavirus situation will be better understood and under control by the time the event takes place on September 19.

Race directors from Rapid Ascent will put in place added measures to help protect runner’s safety, disperse crowds and be responsive to the virus situation when the event takes place in September.

“Launching the event amidst the current turmoil surrounding the virus gives people something to look forward to, providing an outlet for their energy and a good excuse for some long training runs given the social distancing this involves,” Maffett said.

The ninth edition of the Surf Coast Century will will again start and finish in Anglesea. Runners will tackle a challenging and scenic 100km course either as a solo runner or in a team of between two and four runners. There’s a shorter 50km option for solo runners as well.

“The Century takes competitors on a journey along towering sea cliffs, remote beaches, and captivating wildflower hinterland. All this in a hair’s breadth of the Great Ocean Road. We’ve got some exciting changes coming in 2020 as well including a new focus on post event celebrations and recovery the day after racing,” co-race director John Jacoby said.

The 2019 event attracted 1,400 runners and almost 3,000 spectators from all over Australia and contributed $4 million to the Surf Coast economy.

Runners can register or find out more about the Surf Coast Century at SurfCoastCentury.com.au.