Runners hit the trails in Lorne

RUNNERS flocked to Lorne last weekend for the 10th instalment of the Wonderfalls Trail Run on the Surf Coast.

Run by Trails+, almost 300 people took part in the event last Saturday (August 17), with participants choosing from the 5km, 13km, 25km, 42km or 52km distances.

Race director Brett Saxon said he was happy with how the event unfolded and overall, it was an amazing weekend.

“It was perfect weather for this time of year, the condition of the park and the trails were in magnificent shape.”

Participants had to navigate river crossings across all five distances.

Participants navigated their way through single trails, river crossings and waterfalls after setting off from the Cumberland River Holiday Park.

“The trails wind through breathtaking forest trials while providing sections of ocean views,” Mr Saxon said.

“The route features challenging terrain with elevation changes, rocky pathways and scenic lookouts and waterfalls that take participants’ breath away-not just from the exertion, but from the sheer beauty surrounding them.”

Mr Saxon said the race also boosted the local economy, with the event bringing participants and their families into the region.

“We really do hope we make a difference to the regions and bring in a bit of tourism and obviously accommodation and food, when we know there’s a reasonable amount spent into the economy.”

Results were split into male and female with those finishing first, second and third presented with custom trophies, gifts and sponsor prizes.

Ben Burgess and Stephanie Ellis were the first to cross the finish line in the 52km event,with Fraser Wikner and Court Butler taking first place in the 42km race.

Trails+ run events across a number of different locations, with the Surf Coast a favourite among participants.

Daniel Beadle and Sarah Jackson won the 25km, Rory Boyd and Izzie Cooper won in the 13km and Andy Hair and Helena Boyd coming first in the 5km.

Trails+ runs events across several locations throughout the year, with the Surf Coast location a favourite.

“Wonderfalls is probably our most scenic spectacular event, and that’s certainly the feedback that people are giving us, saying it’s absolutely the most glorious location on our running calendar.

All Trails+ events also raise money for Canteen, a charity for young people living with cancer.

For the full list of results, head to trailsplus.com.au/wonderfalls/