Chicago Marathon

/ 13/10/2022

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] Chicago Marathon makes up one of the six events that form the Abbott World Majors series. Run all six and you enter the ...

Chicago Marathon

Chicago Marathon makes up one of the six events that form the Abbott World Majors series. Run all six and you enter the world majors club and receive a medal and pin in recognition.

Chicago Marathon 2022 was held in early October. Being Autumn, weather conditions can be a little unstable. The days prior saw people rugged up in coats, beanies and carrying umbrellas when required. Race day presented mild conditions, clear sky and a hot sun. Known as the “Windy City”, I was personally thankful that it wasn’t blowing a gale!

The course conveniently starts and finishes from Grant Park which is near Millennium park and within easy walking distance
from most hotels.

Wave 1 starts at 07:30 and consists of 5 corrals then wave 2 and wave 3. The last wave starting at 08:30. The course is 1 42.2km loop made up of some very very very long straights. It’s a flat course with only a couple of small rises and athletes have a total of six hours and thirty minutes to complete the course.

The nature of the course sees athletes run through and out of the city, then back in, then back out before back in to finish. This of course can disrupt GPS readings on watches due to high rises and many steel bridges. So my advice? Run to feel. Don’t rely on your watch or it could result in running too fast and hard at the start and blowing up in the back end. A large portion of this course is on concrete. So much so, that the asphalt we did run on provided welcome respite. So perhaps something for some to consider with regards to footwear etc.

When the Chicago marathon first began in 1977 the entry cost was USD 10, it is now USD 240. Marathon culture has evolved though and the winners each received USD 100,000. My husband has informed me that I should have won it! No problems I shall work on that! The entry gets you a finishers medal and a T-shirt. Though it isn’t a finishers T-shirt. Items with the word “finisher” on it need to be purchased. Don’t get me started on that!

There is a 5km event the day before which can be treated as a shake out trot for marathon runners, or is a great way for family and friends to get involved.

Getting an entry into this event, like all majors can be challenging. You can qualify with a good for age time, get drawn from the ballot, run for a charity or go through one of the many growing travelling companies that specialise in participating in sporting events like these.

There is an expo which is out of the CBD at McCormick Place exhibition hall. Three train stops away at a cost of USD2 gets you there quick. Security checks to enter and it’s then a pretty standard expo. Merchandise, other stalls all selling various running related items. Free bars and drinks and all manner of things are offered throughout also. The expos at these large events are pretty exceptional.

The events of late have changed in how they do things in terms of freebies. They promote recycling and not taking stuff if you don’t need it. This event gave athletes the option to fill their own finishers bag. Select what fruit, bars etc. you want and they give you a bag at the end. I didn’t want any of it. So bypassed it all.

It was a one way system at the end which ended at the family reuniting section. Where families stand under the letter of their surname. So pretty easy to find one another.

This year, Chicago 2022 earned me my sixth and final Abbott World Majors Star.

Event profile: Bonnie Davies

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Events, International

Berlin Marathon

Shelley

/ 06/10/2022

Berlin Marathon

Held in Late September, this marathon runs through the streets of Berlin, lined with wonderful supporters and some very talented musicians, many very very young. Dogs also. In Europe, dogs are family. You go out, they go with you. I love this and because of this type of socialisation, the dogs love being there too. The trees are starting to turn with leaves beginning to brown and fall, yet mild enough to walk about in light clothing.

The course doesn’t back track, flows beautifully around the city and surrounds and is flat. I can only recall one very ever so slight rise. There were also no boring bits. None. Maybe I missed them as I was occupying myself by counting dogs. But I did not become aware of any boring bits.

Pacers are provided but honestly with so many people, don’t stress if you can’t get near them. Over that distance it all works itself out eventually. But it’s the NET time you want. Run your race, I’ve never used a pacer, though I’ve been one so I know they serve a purpose to many but in these events with so many people. Go in with a plan, stick to that plan and have a plan B if plan A goes awry.

The expo is held out at an old airport called Tempelhofer. It ceased operation in 2008, and still has all the bag carousels and checkin desks. I didn’t recognise any of the airlines though. The actual expo is down stairs where some old aircraft are parked and incorporates a food market too. It was quite a nice welcoming, pleasant and well organised environment.

The expo was a one way pedestrian traffic system which worked for avoiding congestion and keeping the large number of people moving. Tempelhofer is a little far for a tapering marathon runner to walk to, so the tube, underground, subway or whatever you want to call it is the best way to do it. Transport is free for runners and get off at the station TWO stops before the Tempelhofer station. Otherwise it will take you to the other side of the airport which is now used as recreational grounds and will have you walking across the entire airfield. I did not do this but I spoke to someone who did.

The start and finish precinct of the marathon is conveniently located together in the same spot! Brandenburger Gate. The start time is 0915 for corrals A,B,C and D which is quite a nice start time, while corrals E,F,G and H start later with the latest start about 1030.

The tube, has a station right there at Brandenburger Gate; So it is definitely the easiest way to travel. Upon leaving the station it is literally a 2 min walk where one says their goodbyes to loved ones and embarks on the start of the marathon journey.

Toilets. Yep, we are going there.

Shop around, there are plenty. Don’t get stuck in slow moving queues.
Wear a mask, evident when I hear the person in the toilet next to me gagging and retching at the smell, only to exit a few moments later in a rather uncontrolled and desperate nature gasping for air.
Make sure you’ve done your business before 0845 if starting in the first 4 waves as the start is about a 15 min walk from the athletes village.

Charities collect old clothes and Berlin prides itself on being environmentally friendly. If you don’t need a foil blanket, don’t take it, if you do, they have drop of places where they can be recycled later.

You also have the choice of bag check or poncho. Now New York is definitely a poncho, because it’s a quicker exit. Berlin? Definitely 100% without doubt a checked bag. It’s so organised and is right next to the ponchos. The ponchos flap about and don’t stay done up and are quite frankly a pain. You get a goody bag with water and snacks which is quite generous. Upon exiting many enjoy a beer and picnic in nearby parks others head straight for the tube, personally I’m an advocate of moving. Let the muscles relax, adapt to slower movement and let them settle. So if feeling good, walk. There are some great little markets about and with the city so quiet it’s an opportunity to get some lovely photos of places that would normally be quite busy.

Berlin Marathon is part of the Abbott World Majors series. It is therefore quite expensive to enter. You can at the time at entry just pay for your entry fee, or pay for add-ons including a finishers T-shirt (yes it’s not given to you), jacket, timing chips and various other bits.

The finishers medal always has a famous or well known marathon runner on one side. This year it was Eliud Kipchog. Who just happened to running with us, won it and broke the record! So pretty chuffed with this medal.

Entry can be obtained by running travel companies like traveling Fit, running for charities, qualifying (Berlin is a tough one) and through a ballot system. I was fortunate enough to get accepted through the ballot.

Event profile: Bonnie Davies

Events, Mainland

Compass Club – Lambert Centre Marathon

Shelley

/ 03/05/2022

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Compass Club – Lambert Centre Marathon

This event is one of five events hosted by Elements Running. This being the central addition sees athletes run to the Lambert Centre which is the geographical centre of Australia.

Access to the Lambert Centre is via Finke road beginning at Kulgera Road House which is the first and last pub in the Northern Territory; with the South Australian border being 20km further along the Stuart Highway. The journey from Kulgera along Finke road takes about two hours. It’s a well maintained dirt road, and another 13km from Finke road on sandy/dirt road into the Lamber Centre itself. A good high 4WD is an absolute must. The sand is soft and deep in parts but there are firm lines that runners can find easily enough. And runners should wear gaiters. We hired a Toyota 4Runner 4WD from Budget car rental at a cost of $1900.00 for seven days. It is also very remote and a SAT phone is recommended. We hired one from Britz in Alice Springs for $23.00 per day including insurance.

Kulgera is located around the same distance away from both Ayers Rock and Alice Springs airports, so either can be used as your gate way with driving takes approximately 2:30 from either place. The roads are in brilliant condition, very straight and road houses and regular rest stops are dotted along the journey.

Flights to Alice Springs depart daily from Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane and Ayer’s Rock from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane; and hire cars are available from both airports although there is a greater range from Alice Springs. If wanting to really make a trip out of it the Ghan railway operates out of Darwin and Adelaide and bus services also operates.

Basic accommodation is available at Kulgera, with camping and camper van spots available. The pub provides basic meals and the hospitality is genuine and extremely enthusiastic.

We used Kulgera as our base before the run and got started very early in the dark under torch light to beat the heat. Another alternative to those wanting to camp or use a caravan is to drive along Finke Road to the half way camp where the start/finish line is located. Again the camper van/vehicle must be suitable for 4WD terrain and a camper van would not be suitable for traveling into the Lambert Centre. We opted to stay at Kulgera and drive in early to avoid having to carry extra camping equipment.

Kulgera is approximately 500m above sea level with a typical desert climate. Hot and dry during the day with temperatures during the dry season reaching on average about 22°- 30° and quite cool at night.

The event has both a marathon and half marathon.

The marathon starts at half way camp, heads along Finke road and then out onto the Lambert Centre access road and return, while the half marathon is run entirely on the Lambert Centre access road.

The Entry has both early bird and standard entries. Early Bird starts at $65 for half and $110 for the full. Increasing to $85 for the half and $145 for full.

Our event and journey was slightly varied to the planned event.

This event usually occurs in July when temperatures are at their kindest. However the Covid pandemic caused a slight inconvenience (to put it lightly) and the event was postponed to October 2021.

October came and we packed up and off we went. Got to Adelaide and the Northern Territory shut the borders to Tasmanians because a “lovely” man decided to run around Hobart with Covid. So back we came with our tails between our legs and the event went ahead without us.

Enter April 2022. The organiser permitted us to do the event solo and send our data through.

We flew in Alice Springs, hired a 4WD and drove to Kulgera. We stayed there and drove along Finke where we started our run and finished at the Lambert Centre. This was deemed appropriate given we only had one support person and vehicle.

Starting under torch light was enjoyable but in hindsight does present risks. We saw many snake trails, FRESH snake trails and subsequent research has indicated that unlike Tasmanian snakes they get annoyed and will come and find you and take you down as opposed to taking off in the opposite direction.

No snakes were sighted. Many snake food was sighted in the form of desert mice and frogs. A caterpillar train was also a sweet little highlight during the run. Stock also roams the area and cows on the road is not uncommon.

We decided to make a bit of a holiday of it and upon arriving into Alice Springs stayed for a couple of days. This provided an opportunity to travel out along the MacDonnell Ranges which runs approximately 135km to the West of Alice Springs. It is here that Ormiston Gorge, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm and many other sights can be enjoyed. Ormiston Gorge is a great swimming oasis and swimming is permitted in this watering hole. Others such as those located at Simpsons gap are very sacred to Aboriginal people and swimming is not permitted. We observed Anzac Day in Alice Springs before heading South to Kulgera.

Following our run, we also travelled out to Uluru and Kata Tjuta for a couple of days; staying in Yulara, we had a great couple of days riding camels, scrambling over rocks and absorbing everything around us. Tip: Fly nets are a must.

All in all, a fantastic run. Another event in the series and my medal map of Australia is gradually coming together. Yes you read that correctly “a medal map”. Each of the five medals are shaped so that they all come together to form a map of Australia. Another reason why this series should be a must on every runners bucket list.

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Events, Mainland

Brisbane Marathon Festival

Shelley

/ 25/06/2021

Brisbane Marathon Festival

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[et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text”]If you’re after a PB, then this course may not be for you. Not that it’s particularly hilly, but if it’s a speedy time you’re after, your best bet is the GC Half Marathon a month later. While Brisbane’s Half Marathon course doesn’t boast a dead-flat experience like the Gold Coast, it offers so much more in showing off the River City’s landmarks in ideal conditions.

The race starts at 6am from Colchester St in Brisbane’s South Bank area. It’s still dark at that time, but the sun isn’t far away. This year, the weather conditions offered up a perfect blend of minimal wind and a cool (but not too cool!) temperature of 10°c as the starting gun fired.

The first 2km involves a double-back on Grey St before slowly ascending up Vulture St towards Kangaroo Point Cliffs. The first ‘hard part’ of the race is worth it, if the hill didn’t take your breath away, the view certainly will! A popular tourist hotspot, River Terrace atop the Kangaroo Point Cliffs presents thousands of eager runners with one of the best views in the city. By now the sun is starting to come out and the descent before the Story Bridge is most welcome.

The run continues along Brisbane’s famous Story Bridge, turning a sharp right toward New Farm before finding yourself back at sea-level. You’re almost 1/3 of the way through by the time you make your way onto the New Farm Riverwalk – a 1km stretch of concrete ‘boardwalk’ on the water. From here we get another view of Brisbane City and also the daunting of view of the Story Bridge which you’re about to run up and over for a second time. This is the stinger. The hill from the newly-developed Howard Smith Wharves up the Story Bridge will hurt; either your legs, your lungs or your time. But after this, it’s (almost literally) all down hill from here! Returning for a second glimpse of the Brisbane CBD waking up along River Terrace before heading back towards South Bank.

The course from about the 8.5k mark gets much easier. The downhill off the Story Bridge to South Bank and further on to Riverside Drive in Brisbane’s West End – a long stretch of flat road along the Brisbane River – one of the city’s most popular recreational areas for cyclists, runners and walkers given the view, amenities and proximity to the CBD. When you make a U-turn at Aldi, you have about 5km to go.

The new stretch of boardwalk from the Kurilpa Bridge to the Victoria Bridge had opened only a day or two before the event ensuring that the final stretch is nothing but a flat, scenic stretch before the final stinger up and over the Goodwill Bridge. The short, sharp ascent over the bridge will hurt, but it’s worth it when you’ve begun to descend knowing the finish line is half a kilometre away. A quick surge down the bridge before a sharp left, then right turn where you empty the tank in front of Brisbane’s Riverstage at the Botanic Gardens.

While having the finish line over the river from where you started isn’t ideal as it can prove a logistical nightmare trying to organise a post-run catch up if you don’t have your phone – or worse a jumper – but the electric finish at Riverstage makes it worth it in providing a great atmosphere and plenty of post-run breakfast options after. If you want to avoid disappointment, make sure you make a booking at where ever you decide to go post-race and skip the queue. Trust me.

More info:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brisbanemarathon
Website: https://www.brisbanemarathon.com.au/

Written by: Jay Flashgordon

Images courtesy of Brisbane Marathon Festival

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Events, Mainland

Great Ocean Road Running Festival

Shelley

/ 25/05/2021

Great Ocean Road Running Festival

The Great Ocean Road Running Festival claims to be ‘Australia’s most stunning running event’ and I was excited and nervous to finally run the marathon (well slightly more, at 44km!) on the 16th May 2021. This event had been on my bucket list since 2014, and I had originally registered to run in 2020, but Covid 19 brought an end to that! My registration was automatically transferred to 2021, and in January this year, with exactly 4 months to go, I made the decision that I was in- border closures and quarantine risks permitting!

My base level of running was quite low, having lost a lot of motivation during 2020, however I planned out a program which gave me the minimum safe level of training to give the run a red hot go! I knew the course was ‘undulating’ and had a total of 442m of elevation gain so hill sessions, on both interval and long runs were a must. Throughout my training, I felt strong, albeit slow, and as the day approached, I felt confident that worst case scenario, I would be able to get though at ‘training run’ pace. I was, however, hopeful I could make it in between 4 hours and 4.15.

As race day approached, and living on the safe isle of Tasmania, I was nervously watching the Covid situation in Victoria, desperately hoping all my training would not be wasted with a sudden outbreak across the strait. Typically, 3 days before I was due to fly out, Victoria recorded a case of community transmission, with multiple high-risk exposure sites. With no option other than to pack and cross my fingers, I was relieved when the situation was contained, and I excitedly boarded the plane to Melbourne, 2 days before my run.

With a weather forecast of 7-13 degrees and a 90% chance of 3-6 mm of rain, I imagined I would be running for 4 hours in a torrential down-pour, but having trained in such conditions for the previous 4 months, I did not let this deter my high spirits. Arriving at Airey’s Inlet, just east of Lorne, on Saturday afternoon, the weather was fine, however quite windy and cold so I decided that regardless of how the rain situation looked the next morning, I would definitely run with a light-weight jacket. A decision I was thankful for, in hindsight!

My race plan was to try and average a pace of 5 min 20 sec, which would allow for the hills and still average a 5 min 27 sec pace for about 4 hours overall. With this plan in mind, the day before race day we drove the course, between Lorne and Apollo Bay, and I quickly realised it would be very difficult to pace for the first 30 km of constant up and down, up and down hills. I changed my race plan to run by feel and hope for the best!

Lining up at the race start along with 975 other runners, we were counted down from 10 seconds to go and without a starting gun, we all moved off. Although technically the run started uphill, I barely felt the rise and I was quickly heading down the other side. The gradient on all of the downhills were such that I couldn’t run slower if I wanted to and I although I was comfortable rolling down the hills, I was worried I was going too fast to maintain. The up-hills felt easy and I had to consciously pull back my pace, still covering the first 11km in 55 minutes and 22km in just under 2 hours.

The constant elevation rise and fall took its toll on my left knee by 9km, and I felt the familiar tendon pain I usually only experience post 30km. I had taken Voltarin in anticipation of this and took a couple of Panadol to get me through. By the time I hit 30km, my calves were tired of the relentless undulations and my pace slowed to a crawl as the course became flatter for the last 10km. Despite this, I somehow managed to regain some strength for the last 2km to finish just under 4 hours 15 minutes. That finishing feeling was given an extra boost when, obviously wearing my TRR gear, I heard the Tasmanian Road Runners get a shoutout as I crossed the line!!

Throughout the entire run, the spectacular scenery was a welcome distraction and, strangely enough, 4 hours felt like it was over in no time! Every corner and every rise revealed stunning sights that changed as often as the weather did! Despite the terrible forecast, the first 3 hours were mostly sunny or cloudy- perfect running weather! Towards the 3-hour mark, the wind picked up and the temperature felt as though it dropped 5 degrees. Fortunately, the expected heavy rain was more of a drizzle and although cold, was not as bad as I had feared. Crashing surf and rainbows were a constant throughout the entire run, proving just why the event claims to be ‘Australia’s most stunning running event.’

Notes and tips for future entrants!

Train for relentless elevation changes! With no flat sections for nearly 30km, the calves get a constant workout!
There are regular drink stations and plenty of portaloos along the way!
Book accommodation as early as you can! There aren’t many options and the roads are very very windy and slow so you need to allow plenty of travel time. Despite only being 44km, it will take nearly an hour to drive between Lorne and Apollo Bay!
If you have a support crew dropping you off at the start line at Lorne, plan for them to head through to Apollo Bay straight away! The detour takes about 1.5 hours, however my man then got caught up in the spectator/ support crew traffic as the detour re-joined the Great Ocean Rd at Skenes Creek. He was stuck in traffic for a further hour, only 5 km from the finish line! Luckily, I ran with my jacket and used the time between me finishing and him arriving, to cool down by walking down the road to meet him!

More info:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greatoceanroadrunfest
Website: https://www.greatoceanroadrunfest.com.au/

Written by: Rach Perigo

Images courtesy of Supersport Images (official Great Ocean Road Running Festival event photographer)

Events, Tasmania

COVID-19 Remembrance Run

Shelley

/ 05/12/2020

COVID-19 Remembrance Run - VIRTUAL Run to honour and remember those who have lost their lives in the fight against Coronavirus. 2020 has gone down in history as the year the world stopped...

COVID-19 Remembrance Run

2020 has gone down in history as the year the world stopped. For runners it meant the removal of races and the eradication of events leaving us with an endless supply of virtual events to tide us over.

For a variety of virtual events to choose from, all with spectacular and unique medals and a variety of distances and themes, Phoenix running has something for everyone.

Phoenix running is a UK based company and all events are available globally. Most virtual events are capped only allowing a specific number of participants making your medal even more unique. Each event has an entry fee to cover the cost of your medal and postage while bibs can be printed out.

The Covid-19 remembrance run was appealing given Covid -19 has touched so many aspects of every single persons life globally. For that reason I decided to run this as my final marathon of 2020. My little “up yours” to Covid-19.

Run locally on the Eastern Shore (in Tasmania) this medal earned was 1 of only 500 available making it pretty rare.

Running virtual events can be tiresome and lonely without a race, but with an exciting array of bling available and flexibility on when, where and how far you run, can be advantageous to many. You can run as part of a small group, with a friend, solo, take a pooch, push a pram and start at whatever time you like.

Check out Phoenix Running for the large selection of virtual events up for grabs.

More info:

COVID-19 Remembrance Run – VIRTUAL Run to honour and remember those who have lost their lives in the fight against Coronavirus.

On a day when we paused at 11.00am for 1 minute to remember those who had lost their lives in the fight against Coronavirus we’re launching our Covid-19 Remembrance medal. We’re inviting you to dedicate one or more of your daily forms of exercise to a VIRTUAL run of 1 mile or greater in remembrance.

This medal is also designed to be a remembrance keep-sake from the year when Covid-19 literally stopped the world in its tracks.

Website: https://www.evententry.co.uk/phoenix-virtual-covid-19-remembrance-run

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/phoenixrunninguk

Written by: Bonnie Davies

Events, Mainland

Elements Running – Compass Club North

Shelley

/ 27/09/2020

This marathon is incredible and offers a variety of challenges. Don’t let the heat put you off, as it really is a unique opportunity to explore the magnificent Cape York Peninsula.

Elements Running – Compass Club North

Elements running host five events per year as part of the compass club. Held at each of the five compass points of Australia, this event was the northern compass point finishing at the very tip of Cape York and the most northern tip of Australia. A trip to “the tip” as known by locals is definitely worth the effort of getting here whether for a run or not. The water though not safe to swim in, is the most beautiful blue, the sand pure white and untouched while the wind is refreshing and raw.

The vast difference between North and South compass club location within the same country is almost surreal. So different yet at the same time both are within the same continent.

A trip to Cape York is via Cairns connecting to regional carrier Regional Express (REX). The lowest fare on REX is $404.00 return for 2 hour flight each way and flies into Bamaga which is a quaint little airport with an uncanny resemblance to a shipping container. Luggage is delivered.

Good quality accommodation is available in Bamaga at the Cape York Lodge and have rooms catering for all budgets. The lodge can also arrange 4WD car hire. 4WD are a must due to the terrain, dirt roads and rough corrugations. The cost for car hire is just under $300.00 per day. Due to the isolation of Bamaga and associated towns within the Cape York peninsula, prices for accommodation, fuel and car hire are expensive when compared to those within larger cities.

Bamaga and surrounding towns are large aboriginal communities and the locals are incredibly welcoming a polite. Dogs are free to roam and quickly befriend those staying at the lodge for a feed or treats purchased for them by dog loving tourists! Horses also wander about freely and it is not unusual to see a horse wandering down the Main Street of Bamaga or relieving oneself in the front yard of a random home. All dogs and horses are owned but unlike the western way of treating animals like children; the owned animals here must forage for their own food.

The event is comprised of three distances. A 7 and 21km on the Saturday and the full marathon on the Sunday. Due to COVID-19 many entrants pulled out but a small group of locals and dedicated Tasmanians continued to run both the full and half marathons on the Sunday.

The course begins at the “croc tent”, a large army style tent half way between Bamaga and the tip. It sells souvenirs and local hospitality.

Commencing at 0600 or day break the course runs 1.5km back towards Bamaga before a right turn into another dirt road which leads runners to a trail. The trail is rocky, sandy and undulating in parts. The croc tent to the first turn at the end of the trail is approximately 12km. Returning the same way; once back at the croc tent Runner’s continue down the dirt road all the way to the tip.

All dirt roads have serious corrugations which are difficult to run on. Moving from one side to the other was required to try and find the best line. The roads remain open and for the most part, road users will slow down when passing. A few however will leave you in a cloud of red dust!

Between 15km and 5km from the finish the course winds through dense rain forest filled with an array of beautiful bird calls.
Finishing at the tip car park it’s a short rocky walk to the sign and the absolute tip of Cape York for your obligatory photo.

The terrain is suitable for both road and trail shoes, so it comes down to personal preference.

Water stations were spaced approximately every 10km and locals were very supportive. Given the heat and humidity a hydration vest is a definite requirement. Temperatures are fairly constant between 29-31°c. Humidity is approximately 70% depending upon the time of year the run occurs. This years event was postponed due to Covid-19. Cloud cover protects runners from intense heat but becomes stifling when the sun breaks through.

This marathon is incredible and offers a variety of challenges. Don’t let the heat put you off, as it really is a unique opportunity to explore the magnificent Cape York Peninsula.

Entries are as follows;

$110.00 early bird to $145.00 for the Marathon
$60.00 early bird to $85.00 for the Half Marathon; both including a medal and T-shirt, and
$25.00 for the 7km event which includes a medal with the option of purchasing a T-shirt.

The medals from the marathon, together form a map of Australia so it really does make the series iconic. A trip to Cape York is highly recommended and together with a run; well it’s a match made in heaven.

More info:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elementsrunningevents/
Website: https://www.elements-running.com/

Written by: Bonnie Davies

Events, Tasmania

Dubbo Rhino Ramble Marathon

Shelley

/ 27/09/2020

The 30th August was to be the day Dubbo zoo was visited by several runners to stampede their way through Dubbo... but due to COVID travel restrictions, here's Bonnie's virtual event version of the event.....

Dubbo Rhino Ramble Marathon

The 30th August was to be the day Dubbo zoo was visited by several runners to stampede their way through Dubbo running several distances.

5km – Wallaby Wheel
10km – Cheetah Chase
21.1km – Zebra Zoom
42.2km – Rhino Ramble

Entry fees start at $30 for the 5km event through to $120 for the marathon.

Given I run for rhino conservation the Rhino Ramble was on my bucket list but sadly due to Covid – 19 the event was cancelled. However it was converted to a virtual event. Sadly this appears to be becoming the norm with no end to the pandemic in sight.

So this rambling rhino entered; and on the 30th August laced up and ran the marathon in Hobart Tasmania.

The course, mapped by a friend was undulating and the weather not favorable with a wind warning. Running in 60km/hour winds, the run was challenging. The Tasman bridge was horrendously dangerous as the wind taunted and threatened to send me tumbling into the traffic. It buffeted from the side pushing me into the road and pushing the lifted foot behind the other causing a trip hazard. The slight respite from bushes and houses were short lived. As my course turned the tail wind hammered at me pushing me with such force it was difficult to stay upright, but rhinos face greater adversity with poaching and more recently drought. Keep running! Keep running for rhinos.

Crewed by my husband and best mate, my hydration needs were met every 4km and cheers and high fives were plentiful from them.

Events are limited of late, but there are many virtual ones opening up. It’s not the same as many including myself prefer to “race”, but if you have a passion, embrace it and run for a cause. Another $100 shall be donated the the rhino orphanage in South Africa who desperately need food for their orphaned rhinos as the drought takes hold and no end in sight.

More info:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dubbostampede
Website: https://www.dubbostampede.com.au/rhino-ramble

Written by: Bonnie Davies

Events, Tasmania

Cockle Creek Marathon

Shelley

/ 14/06/2020

Cockle Creek is located on the border of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area approximately two hours drive south of Hobart in Recherche Bay - the farthest point south that can be accessed by car

Cockle Creek Marathon

This event makes up the Southern Edition of the Compass Club series organised by Elements Running. The Compass Club consists of a Marathon, Half Marathon and a shorter 7km event in the Northern, Southern, Western, Eastern and Central compass points in Australia.

Lucky for a Tasmanian, the Southern component is held right here at beautiful Cockle Creek in the states South West. Cockle Creek is located on the border of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage area approximately two hours drive south of Hobart in Recherche Bay and is the farthest point in Australia that can be accessed by car. It is the starting point for many bush walks into the South West known by many globally. Once out of Hobart the drive gets more and more scenic, a highlight was seeing not one but two endangered Wedge tailed Eagles.

The event runs over two days with 7km and 21km events taking place on the Saturday and the marathon on the Sunday. Start times for the Saturday events is approximately 0800 while the marathon starts at 0700. The 2020 event scheduled for April was unfortunately one of the many victims of the COVID-19 pandemic; and the event was postponed several times. Fortunately local entrants were given the opportunity to run the event solo and send data to organizers. So armed with maps and instructions the Compass Clubs Southern edition in Cockle Creek 2020 would go ahead….solo!

The day was picture perfect with clear blue skies, no wind or precipitation. Starting at the Recherche Community Centre, the course runs back towards Hobart for 5.5km on the Cockle Creek road. A U-turn follows and the course heads back towards the start and continues to the end of Cockle Creek Road to the whale statue. Another U-turn at this point back along the road before turning left and heading out on the South Coast Track. The track component is approximately 10km and upon exiting at South Cape bay the course turns right towards Lion rock along the beach for 1km. A U-turn at Lion Rock and it’s back to the start/finish line at the Research Community Centre following the same course in reverse minus the first part (the 5.5km out towards Hobart at the start).

The course is an undulating gravel road which is nice and compact and largely smooth. The track component is well defined with boardwalk for about 40% while the remainder is quite rocky, damp and uneven terrain requiring a lot of concentration on foot placement. There are also a lot of very deep muddy sections which can hide tree roots and loose rocks. Despite the lengthy dirt road component, trail shoes would be better given the trail component and sand on the beach. Coming out of the trail and onto the beach, runners scale a well marked black cliff providing outstanding views of the rugged coastline and the bay which sends waves crashing onto the sand with ferocity. Another consideration is the South West wilderness; it is damp and cold, so expect leeches. They will drop off after a feed so don’t worry too much about them.

The actual event normally provides four hydration stations en route offering water, Powerade, bananas and lollies. Doing the event solo, required carrying hydration and gels with vehicle support offering additional hydration on the road sections. During the event the Cockle Creek road remains open to the public so athletes do need to be vigilant, but all vehicles were very considerate and supportive. Toilets are available at camp sites through Catamaran and all the way through to Cockle Creek and at the Lion Rock. Though there is also many places one can squat for a quick wee here and there.

The South West wilderness region can be subject to incredibly wild and challenging weather that can change very quickly. So clothing should be light and layered. First aid is provided during the event, but when running solo a basic first aid kit should also be carried.

This is a fabulous and unique event in one of the most picturesque regions of Tasmania if not the world. Normally capped at 75 athletes, this event is not crowded allowing participants to embrace the raw and beautiful wilderness unimpeded. For those craving a marathon experience after a torrid year of COVID-19 cancellations. Put the Cockle Creek marathon on your list for 2021.

More info:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elementsrunningevents/
Website: https://www.elements-running.com/south-south-coast-tasmania

Written by: Bonnie Davies

Events, Mainland

Orange Running Festival

Shelley

/ 14/03/2020

Orange is a rural town in NSW 60km beyond Bathurst. Driving time from Sydney is approximately a 3:30hr scenic drive...

Orange Running Festival

Orange is a rural town in NSW 60km beyond Bathurst. Driving time from Sydney is approximately 3:30hrs but largely traffic dependent. The drive is scenic, taking road trippers through the blue mountains and no drive through Bathurst is complete without a drive on the Mt Panorama race circuit. Orange is over 800m above sea level which can make the first few kilometers a little harder for those used to sea level running.

The events begin on the Saturday with a 2km run and the 5km, 10km, Half Marathon and Full Marathon take place on the Sunday.

Entries open well in advance of the festival Approximately 6 months from the beginning of September; the entry process is easy and early bird entries in the marathon and half marathon which close in early February receive a free T-shirt. Additional T-shirts can be purchased at the time of registration. Entry fees start at $90.00 for the marathon and reduce gradually to $5.00 for the 2km event. Each event increases by $10.00 once early bird entries close. No registrations are permitted on the day.

The start/finish precinct is located at Gosling Creek Reservoir reserve, one of the two major water catchments for Orange.

There are park lands, play ground, BBQ facilities, toilets plus additional portaloos and for family members, walking paths and playing fields located here. This is also where Orange parkrun is held on a Saturday morning for both athletes and families to participate and shake out legs.

It’s an early start with the Marathon heading off at 0630, the Half Marathon at 0645, 10km at 0930 and the 5km at 1030. All events follow the same out and back course turning at their respective points.

The course is rolling and undulating with decent lumps. It heads out on closed sealed country roads. The rural fire service handle all road closures and manage drink stations. The course is lined with mooing cows, chewing sheep, horses, a wonderful camel, flying crows, chirping birds, a couple of emus and complete serenity in rural NSW. Marathon runners will also witness a phenomenal sunrise.

The marathon does have approximately 4km of unsealed undulating gravel road which is corrugated in some areas. For runners with a little off-road experience it will pay dividends. Race flats can also slip a little on this section. Another 2km past the gravel and the 21.1km turn is reached and athletes turn and head back to the start. The return is when the rolling undulating road can take its toll on the weary marathon legs.

The event is highly organised with bib collection available from the start/finish precinct on the Saturday and prior to race start on the Sunday. The same volunteers look after gear during the race. Electronic timing is positioned throughout the course and drink stations containing both water and electrolyte are positioned every 4 kilometers.

Accommodation for all budgets are found in and around Orange from farm stays, Airbnb, hotels and motels. Driving from Sydney or Canberra so visitors have a car and can explore and support the small towns enroute is recommended; but there is a small regional airport which receives flights from REX airlines and Qantaslink are due to begin operations into Orange from May 2020.

Orange is known for its fruit (not oranges) and wine produce, with many vineyards close to town offering very generous wine tastings. Orange is fabulous. Great town, great environment, and a wonderful running festival. Definitely a must see destination for the whole family runners and non runners alike.

More info:

Facebook: https://bit.ly/3aVsLH6
Website: https://www.orangerunningfestival.com.au/

Written by: Bonnie Davies