Grit and determination shown at Surf Coast Century

MORE than 1,500 runners showed determination, grit and perseverance to compete in the largest Surf Coast Century in the event’s history over the weekend.

Saturday’s event took competitors from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returning along the cliff top tracks and hinterland trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet and back.

Half the field took on either the 100km or 50km courses as solo runners, while the remaining competitors participated in a relay team of two, three and four.

Putting in a world-class performance in the 100km ultra marathon was Holly Ranson who broke a course record as the first female over the line at 9.03:00.

She also finished second overall, with Nigel Hill showing true grit to clock an impressive 8.49:53 in the men’s field.

“I was feeling really good today,” Ranson said.

“It’s my first time racing in Victoria so I knew it would be tough, but I also knew what I was aiming for.

“The course was so beautiful and stunning with so many different types of terrain!

“The sand, mud, hills, downhills, ocean views, and the forest sections with all the ferns; it’s all so incredible.”

In the 50km ultra event, Matthew Whittaker and Miah Noble demonstrated strong performances to cross the line first in times of 3.28:16 and 3.53:35 respectively.

After battling with an eating disorder for many years, Noble said she was proud of her resilience, courage and belief to achieve her dreams.

“Believe in yourself is the biggest gift you can give yourself. I had my back the whole time.

“Before the race I had a goal, but I wouldn’t say it out loud – my partner kept saying the goal, but I wouldn’t because I was too scared I wouldn’t get it. But I got it! So that’s pretty cool.

“I’ve gone through a massive journey to get here. I’m just really proud.”

The event saw competitors either take part in a 50km and 100km race individually or as a team.

In addition to the impressive individual efforts, $2,000 was up for grabs for the first and fastest team to break the seven-hour barrier.

Tough course conditions saw the first team over the line ‘Buster Burchell” clock a time of 7.43:41 and miss out on the cash.

More than 1,500 people took on the Surf Coast Century over the weekend.

Other festivities across the Surf Coast Century weekend included the MELI Kids Run and Boat Ramp Battle.

Event organisers Rapid Ascent said the 13th edition of the event was a massive success.

“Seeing competitors and supporters sharing in this unforgettable journey together is simply awe-inspiring,” Rapid Ascent general manager Sam Maffett said.

“The courses’ backdrop in such a beautiful part of Australia really does add to this and so much more as memories were made, goals achieved, and celebrations being a true highlight for all our competitors and supporters.”