Runners hit the training track ahead of Surf Coast Century

RUNNERS from across Victoria gathered last month for the second of four training runs on the official Surf Coast Century 100km ultra marathon course on the weekend, enjoying 28 kilometres of scenic running from Point Danger in Torquay to Anglesea.

The free informal training runs are the perfect opportunity for runners to familiarise themselves with the course they will compete across on September 15, and have attracted more than 50 runners to each session.

Geelong’s Michelle Morrissey ran the Surf Coast Century as her first 100km event in 2013 after originally taking part in a relay team, and is now in training for the 50km race this September, which will be her seventh time racing at the event.

“The training runs are excellent and a great way to get acquainted with the course and enjoy a day on the trails with fellow trail runners,” she said.

“If you’re considering the Surf Coast Century, it’s great to sample the trails, practice with the online maps provided, spend a great day with like-minded people and get tips from those with experience.”

Andrew Collier travelled from Melbourne for the training run, and said it was a fantastic opportunity
to see the course at a pace that allowed him to take in the scenery without the pressure of race day,  make new friends and share insights from other runners.

“There can’t be many places in the world where you can run for a solid 20 kilometres along the beach at low tide with spectacular multi-coloured cliffs on one side, and turquoise waters on the other, to then exit the beach and head into the hills for sweeping views – life doesn’t get any better.”

The next training runs on course are: July 22: Leg 3, 28km from Anglesea to Moggs Creek (super-sized with post-run lunch and Q&A info session)

August 19: Leg 4, 22km from Moggs Creek to Anglesea

The training runs are free and hosted by Rapid Ascent, the local adventure sports event management company behind the Surf Coast Century.

Runners can also download course maps and train on the course at any time.

For more information, head to SurfCoastCentury. com.au.