Trail run series wraps up at Anglesea

1,000 competitors took part in the finale trail run. Photos: THE MATT IMAGE

THE series finale of the 2021 Trail Running Series was a resounding success with optimal weather, magical trails, and uplifting celebrations throughout Anglesea.

Floral bushland trails were another major portion of the course.

More than 1,000 competitors flooded the Surf Coast town on Sunday to take part in the 22, 15, eight and four-kilometre courses on offer after a six-month COVID-19 induced delay.

“We celebrated the fact we could get together, engage with one another and share the magic and beauty of trail running despite the challenges we’ve faced over the past two years in the events industry,” Rapid Ascent general manager Sam Maffett said.

“To see the size of the competitors’ smiles as they crossed the finish line throughout the series cements why we do what we do – we are genuinely proud of everyone’s efforts who made the atmosphere at each race simply amazing.”

“Anglesea is definitely the favourite of the five races,” competitor Toni Sier said.

The addition of the ‘Friendly 4km’ trail provided a new challenge allowing 70 junior runners to be involved with the sun-filled enthusiasm of running on the coast.

Many competitors embraced after completing what was a long-awaited event.

Richard Schwalb took out the men’s 22km long course with an impressive time of 1:38:58, meanwhile Laura York completed the full trail in 1:52:38.

Medium course (14.7km) winners Emmanuel Hovette and Ruby van Dijk wrapped up 1:01:46 and 1:16:53 times respectively, and David Martinez (32:11) and Matilda LeStrange (37:35) emerged victorious in the shorter 7.8km event.

For more information on how the event went head to www.trailrunningseries.com.au.