Afterglow Trail Run returns in full colour to the Surf Coast

THE Surf Coast’s brightest night on the trails returns next week, with the Afterglow Trail Run set to bring bold colours and playful costumes to the coastline.

Now in its 11th year, the night-time event has built a reputation for its inclusive and community-focused atmosphere. Costumes have become a defining part of the Afterglow tradition, often ranging from neon tutus and glam outfits to large unicorn suits.

Event director Chris Ord said the run had been shaped by his own love of 80s culture and a desire to make trail running more accessible.

“It’s [about] getting out there, running, having fun … lighting up the night,” he said.

 

 

“We get real pleasure out of when we’ve introduced people to something like trail running – and easy trails and accessible trails like we have on the Surf Coast are the perfect way to do it.

“You don’t have to be a runner. You can come along and just want to get involved with the community, with the fun and frivolity.”

Three distances are available: a 5km, 13km and 21km trail run. A second 5km option has been added this year, with the earlier run time of 3pm, to allow parents with young children to participate.

This year’s event will again raise funds for the Sexual Assault & Family Violence (SAFV) Centre in Geelong, as it aims to “shine a light” on the increasing rate of family violence incidents in the region.

“I’ve had family members who have been directly affected,” Ord said. “I don’t want my daughters to be affected by it.

 

 

“Specifically, us as blokes, we need to obviously do a lot better, because the stats show that the perpetrators are generally by and large us.

“It’s not just about creating a crucible for women to get out there and feel safe on trails. It’s also about bringing the blokes into the conversation saying, ‘Hey, we need to do better to create a safer environment for everybody and be an inclusive community for everybody’.”

Ord will donate $5 to the SAFV Centre for every Afterglow participant who paints their nails when they pick up their registration bib next week.

The Afterglow Trail Run will take place on December 6. For more information, head to afterglowtrailrun.com