Surf Coast Century provides long-awaited ultra marathon

ROSS Hopkins slashed more than 20 minutes off his previous winning time to claim victory in the Surf Coast Century.

The 100km ultra marathon held over the weekend was one of the first mass-participation events along the Surf Coast since the onset of COVID-19 restrictions. The event also offered a 50km course.

Hopkins ran an impressive time of 8 hours, 38 minutes and 29 seconds to take the honours in the ninth running of the race, which began and ended in Anglesea.

He took a slow and steady approach to the race, a different tactic to previous years.

“It’s a long way out there and over the years I’ve learnt to pace myself a little bit. I went out steady at the start even though there were a few in front of me, but I was confident I could hang in there all day,” Hopkins said.

“It’s my fastest time over 100km so I’m very happy with that time. Dave (Eadie’s) training program worked out really well for me today.”

Matthew Crehan (8:49:11) and Matthew Whitake (8:59:26) rounded out the top three in the men’s field.

Sarah Hedger took out the 100km overall female category in a time of 10:13:22 in just her second 100km ultra marathon, beating her best time from last year.

“I had such a good run last year, I didn’t think it could get any better than that,” she said.

“I went out a bit slower and steadier this year, I felt a bit lonely but the volunteers were so good and encouraging out there. I guess that’s the joy of trail running, all the highs and lows are worth it.”

The Surf Coast Century is organised by Torquay-based Rapid Ascent, and event director Sam Maffett was thrilled to see such a race be able to be put on again, with fields just shy of capacity.

“To see competitors’ dreams come to life at the event after many months of training, sacrifices and COVID setbacks and unknowns has made this year’s Century one of our most memorable races to date.”

Corey Milner (3:46:40) won the men’s 50km run while Victoria Cole (4:32:21) won the women’s 50km.

The Surf Coast Shire supported the event.