Locals to take on Surf Coast Century

SURF Coast residents are lacing up for the 14th edition of the Surf Coast Century returning on September 13, with many having their sights set on the 100km ultra trail marathon.

The 100km distance is the headliner for the event, made up of individual runners and relay teams of two, three, or four runners, alongside a 50km individual trail run.

Held along the Great Ocean Road, the ultra has earned an impressive reputation as one of Australia’s premier ultra trail marathons and is often a bucket-list event for ultra trail runners.

When Jan Juc resident Sarah Bush’s professional goals hit pause, setting a personal challenge became essential and she will lead her relay team of four into the Surf Coast Century.

“I had to set a personal goal alongside professional goals for work,” she said.

“The professional ones weren’t eventuating, so I had to sign up to this for my review. I also think it will be fun.”

Torquay’s Heath Wallace is also stepping up to the challenge, signing up to run the 100km solo.

“This time, I’m doing it for myself – to see what I’m made of,” he said.

Mt Duneed’s Holly Wilmott is taking on the 50km solo for the first time, running in honour of her sister Hannah’s memory.

“I am entering this event as a part of a fundraising campaign I have commenced in honour of my sister who passed away from brain cancer earlier this year,” she said.

“My aim with Seventeen Past Ten is to reach a whole heap of people who will aid in raising funds for the Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute to allow those that can still run, to keep going.”

Husband and wife duo Stuart Jones and Kate Eddiehausen are also teaming up for the event while Niall Collins and Cameron Larchin round out the team.

The Surf Coast Century, organised by Torquay- based business Rapid Ascent, has a figure-eight course design, taking the 100km competitors from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returning along the tracks and trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet and returning to Anglesea.

The 50km runners will do the first half of the 100km course.

Rapid Ascent general manager Sam Maffett encouraged more locals to have a go and join the inspiring runners.

“It’s the ideal place to run an ultra-trail marathon, whether that’s on your own, or in a team – the course is in your backyard.

“The Century will take you on a spectacular journey with stunning views matched with a welcoming atmosphere and friendly camaraderie throughout.”

Training events are also offered in the lead up to the event running on June 22, July 20 and July 17.

For more information and to register, head to surfcoastcentury.rapidascent.com.au

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