Torquay local wins ultra-marathon

TORQUAY’S Andrew Burchell has finished first in last weekend’s 100km Great Ocean Ultra Trail marathon.

The event is one of the most renowned ultra marathons in Australia, which starts at Apollo Bay and runs along the oceanside track to the finish line at the Twelve Apostles.

In his fourth 100km race, Burchell said his previous experiences were crucial in leading to the incredible victory.

“Crossing the finish line first was surreal.I felt far more attuned to the terrain thanks to the lessons I’d learned from previous events like the Buffalo Stampede, the Blue Mountains Ultra and the Surf Coast Century.”

At the 85km point, Burchell was coming second, before another runner pushed past him and fuelled his desire to win.

“An English runner came past me and said ‘I’m coming third,'” Burchell said..That lit a fire in me to lift the tempo. From that moment on, I enacted my plan and to dig deep and push hard through the back section of the course. That shift in mindset made all the difference.”

While he has been an avid runner for most of his life, Burchell only started competing in 100km events this year after building on 50km events.

He also runs a sport kinesiology business in Torquay, something he said was a large contributor to his success.

“My professional background and business experience has profoundly shaped the way I prepare for and recover from ultra trail running events,” he said.

“I’ve cultivated a comprehensive skill set that allows me to tailor my training and recovery strategies to unlock peak performance.”

“I apply the same principles I use in my practice (which) unlocks performance on every level – physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.”

Burchell credited his faith and family following the win.

“I’d like to thank the higher God,” he said. Faith plays a central role in my journey and it’s the foundation of my strength and purpose.

When I see my wife and kids out there, it lifts me. They are my world. Their encouragement, both behind the scenes and at the races, means everything to me.”

Burchell plans to compete in next year’s GPT 100 mile event in the Grampians, with his ultimate goal the UTMB Ultra Trail in Europe in 2027.