Record numbers to take on Surf Coast Century

MORE than 1,500 runners will take part in one of Australia’s most popular ultra trail marathons on the Surf Coast this weekend.

The region will bear witness to the biggest field of participants to date in the 13th edition of the Surf Coast Century on Saturday, September 21.

A total of 850 competitors will be participating as individual runners in either the 100km or 50km course, while the remaining field will take part in teams of two, three or four.

Featuring an accessible course in a figure-eight design, the course takes 100km competitors from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returns along the cliff top tracks and hinterland trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet; before heading back to Anglesea on the Surf Coast Walk trail via Point Roadknight.

LEFT: Competitors will either compete individually or in teams of two, three or four. INSET: The Surf Coast Century will span more than 100km of coastline and bush trails.

Event organiser Sam Maffett from Rapid Ascent said he could not wait for athletes to light up the local trails next weekend.

“It’s more than just a race; it’s an opportunity for individuals and relay teams to challenge themselves and share an unforgettable journey together in a beautiful part of Australia.”

Cooper Barsby from Armstrong Creek will be running the 100km in 2024 after catching the ulta-marathon bug by competing in the 50km last year with his mother Kate.

Josh Tighe won the Margaret River sister event recently and will be hoping to secure the double next weekend on the Surf Coast. Photos: PHOTOS4SALE

“I’m following in Mum’s footsteps! I’ve done a couple of 50km runs, and now wanting to go even further.”

Notable ultra runner Josh Tighe will be one to keep an eye on as he looks to do the double, after taking out the event’s sister race in Western Australia recently.

“I really like the challenge running brings you and seeing self-improvement through commitment and hard work.

Cooper and Kate Barsby crossing the line in 2023.

“I’m feeling very similar to the Margaret River Ultra – with a mixture of excitement and nervousness as the ultra-distance is new to me.

“As an avid traveller I love racing in new locations and I’m excited to run along the beautiful coastline of Victoria.”

A $2,000 cash prize will be up for the grabs at the Century again this year for the first and fastest team to break the seven-hour relay team course record.

The celebrations will continue the day after the race on September 22 at the Anglesea SLSC with presentations, recovery activities, a barbecue and the Meli Kids Run.

Limited entries remain for those up for a last-minute challenge.

Head to surfcoastcentury.com.au