ENTRIES to this year\u2019s Trail Running Series opened on April 24, with a number of early registrations proving a positive sign for the 2019 event.<\/p>\n
The annual Trail Running Series consists of five events, from 5km to 23km distances held within striking distance of Melbourne, giving participants the choice of short, medium and long courses at each event to cater to all skill levels.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur events are specifically tailored to be achievable by the average runner and we\u2019ve located them all within an hour of an urban centre, so they are accessible, too,\u201d event director Sam Maffett said, noting many trail-running events are held in remote areas.<\/p>\n
\u201cPart of trail running is about getting into these pristine environments and appreciating them on foot. But we have to provide stepping-stone events,\u201d Mr Maffett said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe wanted to create these opportunities for runners to enjoy trail running and the many benefits it can bring to theirs lives \u2013 the endorphins, the fitness and health and importantly the friendly social vibes and friendships,\u201d<\/p>\n
The Trail Running Series \u2013 managed by event management group Rapid Ascent \u2013 will cover single tracks in Plenty Gorge, Smiths Gully, Silvan, Anglesea and Yarra Bend. Participants will run on tracks, dirt roads and fire trails.<\/p>\n
This year will mark the ninth year of the Trail Running Series, with more than 1,200 first timers and experienced athletes taking part.<\/p>\n
The Saturday night race will return as part of the finale with some unforeseen course tweaks, new competitions and bush running in store for participants.<\/p>\n
Sonia O\u2019Sullivan, 2018 series competitor, said the Trail Running Series is unlike other races.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s great to have the opportunity to run a race in places like these. It\u2019s the freedom of running through the trails that make it so spectacular,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The five races will take place in June, July, August, September and October.<\/p>\n