Berry brilliant run

By Matt Romania

Along the Lerderderg Trail between Blackwood and Myrniong, In the heart of Moorabool Shire, the Berry Long Run wrapped up its 9th edition with unprecedented success, as runners undertook the 70km and 40km challenges through varied terrains. Jon Lewis, Race Director of the Berry Long Run, said they were blessed with relatively dry and mild conditions this year.

“This was by far our biggest field of runners at the start line,” he said.

“Our primary goal each year is to provide an amazing and safe experience for our runners. Equally, we exist to raise funds for charity.”

With a record 62 runners completing the gruelling 70km and 38 finishing the 40km distance, this year’s race was one for the books. Both groups had to tackle the tricky descent into the gorge at Whiskey Track and then get through a gruelling climb out.

But what goes behind preparing for such an event?

For the 70km run, Mr Lewis said the runners are usually training for 4 – 6 months.

“Although the course has steep hills, which need to be trained for both up and down, there’s also long sections where they can run at pace. A mix of traditional road running training as well as trail running training is beneficial in the event lead up.”

In terms of standout performances, Jon Strachan – the winner of the 70km event – is notable for also being equal oldest participant in the male category:

“At 55, he’s still pretty young, but beating everyone younger than you at an ultramarathon is good going.”

Beyond the amazing physical feat of the runners, the Berry Long Run serves as a high purpose, to raise awareness and financially benefit the Berry Street charity.

“We usually aim to raise about $20,000 per year as a minimum. We’ve already passed $21,000 this year,” Mr Lewis told The Moorabool News.

Since its inception in 2014, the Berry Long Run has amassed an impressive total of over $138,000 for the Berry Street charity.