Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events in Torquay, Victoria | Sport & recreation

Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events

Locality: Torquay, Victoria

Phone: +61 3 5261 5511

Address: 1-3 Gilbert St 3228 Torquay, VIC, Australia

Website: http://www.rapidascent.com.au

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25.01.2022 A friendly chat with Majel Backhausen Kelly Emmerson that we can all learn from. Tune in and ASK ANY QUESTIONS that come to mind...

24.01.2022 WIN a movie to watch from the comfort of your couch TONIGHT! Tell us in just one word why you run and the 4 best answers will win a ticket to watch Reach for the Stars a new ultra running film premiering on Adventureplus tonight. https://adventureplus.com/prog/reach-for-the-stars-aus-live

24.01.2022 Past winner profile: Kellie Angel (nee. Emmerson). Over coming weeks we are going to profile past winners of the Surf Coast Century and/or the Margaret River Ultra who are lining up for the 10th year of the Century in 2021. First up is local legend: Kellie Angel (nee. Emmerson). Kel has won the Surf Coast Century 3 times in 2014, 2015 and 2016 and holds the female 100km course record at 9hr03.24. Although she has not raced the event for 5 years Kellie has certainly been busy...Continue reading

23.01.2022 Here is a recap of the Virtual Race #1 we conducted on Sunday as part of our Trail Running Series presented MINI. See how we connected via some easy race technology and the conversations + camaraderie we all enjoyed despite being located all across Australia (+ Scotland). With 450 runners involved it was an amazing feeling to know that everyone else was running at the exact same time. We seriously cant wait to do it again at race #2 on 12th July make sure you join us (no ...matter where you are!) www.TrailRunningSeries.com.au

23.01.2022 Many of us are waiting and watching the NT Governments actions regarding their borders and the likelihood of our Run Larapinta Stage Race proceeding on the planned dates of 26-29 August 2020. Linked here is the latest update from the ABC that provides some insights into the timeline for decisions... basically that the status of their borders will be reviewed weekly from mid June onwards. Back on the 26th May the Chief Minister had indicated the Northern Territorys borders... are likely to reopen within 60 days, which we saw as a positive. So at this stage we are waiting on the next announcement in the middle of the month. We will communicate with 2020 Run Larapinta entrants via e-mail after that update is issued. Keep training - and crossing your fingers! https://www.abc.net.au//nt-coronavirus-border-res/12334452

23.01.2022 GOOD NEWS: Support crews are back + other awesome updates for the 2020 Surf Coast Century. We have received guidance from State Government on our COVID-event plan and with the easing of restrictions across the state we can confirm some major changes (for the better) to the format for the 2020 event. Here is a summary of the changes, read the Event Program online for all the details:... - Solo 100km and 50km runners can have 1 support person - Teammates can act as support crew for their team runner - Wave starts will now be 2min apart meaning a bigger atmosphere at the start - More spectators can watch you at the start and celebrate with you at the finish! - The Bar is back! we can have Bells Beach Brewing selling beer and a van selling coffee at the finish line! These changes, and the final event format, are all explained in detail in the EVENT PROGRAM and we urge all event attendees to read the program (a couple of times) before attending. The details in the Event Program supersede all previous event plans we have shared. OF COURSE: All event attendees must social distance and observe all event requirements... as explained in the program. Event Program is here: https://surfcoastcentury.rapidascent.com.au/event-details//

23.01.2022 Picture yourself on an incredible journey through the forests, trails, beaches and bluffs on the magnificent Cape to Cape coastline in one of Australias only ultra marathons of 2020! Read more about the Margaret River Ultra Marathon on 17 October 2020 in our latest Newsletter! https://mailchi.mp//margaret-river-ultra-marathon-going-st

23.01.2022 Entries are now open for Australia’s new bucket list event The Margaret River Ultra Marathon on 1st May 2021. Over 1,300 runners raced along this picture-postcard course in October and we’re expecting a SELL OUT field come May 2021. | -- | ... Run through forests, trails, beaches and bluffs along a course that is as magical as the Margaret River region is beautiful. Add in a massive social atmosphere and a brewery at finish line and you can see why this is bucket list material. ENTER NOW! : : !!! www.MRultramarathon.com.au

23.01.2022 COVID update 29-10: Victoria’s diminishing COVID-19 case numbers and the major easing of restrictions for Melbourne announced earlier this week continues to give us great hope that the Surf Coast Century can proceed in December. We are still of the firm believe that if restrictions permit group gatherings of up to 50 people then we can run the race, albeit with a few changes compared to ‘normal’. We have documented these changes and published them to the event website for all... to see. Yesterday we e-mailed all current event entrants explaining the event changes and their entry options (please check your inbox). Entries to the 100km solo are nearly full, and 50km solo field also nearing capacity, so we are asking all current entrants to confirm your race intentions by 6th November, so we can make space for others and have a confirmed field ahead of time if we can proceed. Please follow the instructions in the e-mails sent. As announced previously, we will wait until as late as 23rd November for the restriction situation to be confirmed before making a final call on the race. If the race is able to proceed it will be a very exclusive event, dedicated to the sheer joy of running along a spectacular course with a more stripped back vibe compared to normal. We hope it will unite the ultra-community and provide a true celebration of trails, fresh air and freedom. Fingers crossed! https://surfcoastcentury.rapidascent.com.au/

22.01.2022 Were excited to announce that our friends at Squirrels Nut Butter are returning as sponsors of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon and theyre giving all 80km solo runners a free sample pot of their all natural anti-chafe salve to celebrate. Squirrels Nut Butter use only all-natural ingredients in all of their products which do a great job of preventing skin damage from chafe and excess friction as well as repairing and restoring damaged skin. For more details on the product or see why the best in the world are using SNB go to www.squirrelsnutbutter.com.au

21.01.2022 Its ON!!! 17 OCTOBER 2020 Yes, you read it right the Margaret River Ultra Marathon is ALL SYSTEMS GO for its rescheduled date of 17 October 2020.... We have every intention of proceeding with the event even if the WA borders are closed to interstaters and are confident in delivering one of the best ultra marathons in Australia this year! Find out more in our latest newsletter.... #margaretriverultra #ultrarunning #ultrarun

20.01.2022 MINI goes exploring on the Surf Coast Century course!! WIN a $50 Glimmer Gear voucher if you can name the location and KM point on the 100km course where ANY of these photos were taken?!! Hmmm at what point is the lighthouse again? Or that beach section?! All photos were taken on the exact course where your feet will run this weekend! Make sure you go and check out the MINI Countryman Adventures Lounge at the event expo this weekend. Relax and recover with a kombucha ...on them. You are going to deserve it! Glimmer Gear MINI_aus #surfcoastcentury

20.01.2022 Things are getting real race number plates are here and we’re getting (super) excited. We’re also working on the event program that documents all the event details with schedule, checkpoint instructions, course maps and more and will e-mail this to all runners on Friday 27th November. Team entries and limited solo entries still available.

20.01.2022 It is with great disappointment that Rapid Ascent announces the postponement of the 2020 Surf Coast Century presented by MINI which was to be held on 19 September at Anglesea, Victoria. The new date will be Saturday 5 December, 2020. CARE PACKAGE for entrants: We know this is a really frustrating change for anyone training for the event so to help you navigate to the new date, and as some level of compensation we have prepared a CARE PACKAGE for current entrants and those wh...o enter before 31st July 2020. The Care Package provides guidance on how to reset your mind, adjust your physical training, incorporate strength as well as exclusive sponsor offers valued at $150+. We held great hope for this event since the original onset of the COVID-19, however due to renewed outbreak in Victoria and restrictions set in place by the Victorian Government we have had to change plans. Rather than simply cast runners adrift or leave them lost on the trails with no assistance, it is hoped the care package helps educate and motivate runners across the intervening 11 weeks. We are incredibly deflated by this outcome but know it is the right decision for our community. We look forward to sharing your ultra trail running journey with you in December. All current 2020 entrants have been sent an e-mail outlining your entry options and link to the exclusive Care Package. Please contact Rapid Ascent [email protected] if you have any questions. Sam, John, Annie and Adele - your Rapid Ascent team.

20.01.2022 ! - : Our friends at the Margaret River Trail Running Club are hosting two FREE training runs along sections of the MR Ultra course and we encourage anyone who can get there to join them for some perfect training sessions, 5 weeks before race day. ... Open to all runners to attend, these sessions provide a terrific opportunity to see parts of the course and meet others training for the event in a friendly, non-competitive environment. All details and discussions are on this event page:

20.01.2022 Glass half full or half empty? Today was to be the start of our Run Larapinta Stage Race with a capacity field of 200 runners joining us in the Red Centre for 4 days of awe inspiring trail running But rather than dwell on the negatives we are focusing on the positives. The MacDonnell Ranges have been around for 1,500 millions years so I reckon theyll still be there next year as well. We maintain good health and the spirit of the trail running community is about as strong a...s the rocks of the Red Centre are hard. So whilst we were not there to experience it right now, we will be there twice next year (2020 race is rescheduled to 21-24 April and the 2021 race will be on 26-29 August) and we still have each other to train with, reminisce with and dream with. There is always plenty to look forward to when your glass is half full (or more).

19.01.2022 The further the finish line, the more satisfying the finish. This wasnt the reason we changed the date of the Surf Coast Century (now 5th December) but I think this quote highlights something we all know, that the harder the effort to achieve a goal the more satisfying it is when you attain it. How are you handling the change of date? how have you adjusted your training are you taking a mini break now to recharge or pressing on with the endeavour of being even fitter on... race day? How about your mindset are motivation levels still high or as the winter doldrums (and COVID lock downs set in?) I think wed all build strength by sharing our situation and learning from others so we encourage you to tell us how youre handling things and Ive got $50 voucher to our retail partner Bogong Equipment for our most inspiring story. [Dont forget the Care pack or resources we prepared for SCC entrants received by 31 July that has a host of info on how to adjust your training, mindset and approach to a delayed race. How has the info helped?]

19.01.2022 Facebook LIVE Q&A with elite runners: Majell Backhausen and Kellie Emmerson on Tuesday 9th June We are starting a series of Facebook Live Q&A sessions called Ultra Experience athlete interviews presented by CLIF in the hope that we can learn from the experiences of others and were kicking off with these two powerhouses Majell Backhausen and Kellie Emmerson. We encourage you to tune in to this live discussion to learn more about who they are, their approach to life, the... experiences they have had and how we can learn from their knowledge. Its a bit like a podcast but you can ASK YOUR OWN QUESTIONS in real time, see whats happening and win some cool prizes from CLIF Bar! Tune in to the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running facebook page at 8:15pm Tuesday 9th June for all the stories. Kellie Emmerson- Ultra/Trail runner Kellie Emmerson Majell Backhausen CLIF Bar CLIF Bar

19.01.2022 Surf Coast Century and COVID-19 our 9/9/20 response: We are acutely aware of the Victorian Governments Roadmap for reopening and its potential impact on the Surf Coast Century (and our events industry as a whole). But rather than reacting with a hastily prepared plan, we are processing the news, asking questions and considering our options before announcing any changes. Our approach has always been to pursue every opportunity for our events to go ahead - so your training... can be rewarded and dreams realised if at all possible. To simply cancel, postpone or rearrange now without pausing to gather thoughts would be disrespectful for the effort weve all put in the event is still 3 months away and things are continually evolving. [We recently read great article on the Growth Equation website called, A simple formula for responding not reacting and we are trying to put their ideas into practice, such as - to pause and process rather than panicking and proceeding. Well worth reading here: https://thegrowtheq.com/a-simple-formula-for-responding-no/ ] So please give us some time to pursue options all the while taking confidence from our comprehensive refund policy. We thank you for your support.

18.01.2022 Ultra Experience athlete interviews presented by CLIF. Listen in to our live chat with David Eadie and Nikki Wynd and comment with any questions you want us to cover off. Talking starts at 50sec point.

17.01.2022 The Surf Coast Century is proud to have a partnership with One in Five a mental health charity where 100% of donated money goes towards medical research into mental illness. Such a worthy cause provides motivation for many people to challenge themselves at the Century and raise money for this important charity. One such group are the Second Wind group of runners who, in 2019, raised $20,000 with 14 runners being part of the event. The Second Wind runners ran in the memory o...f mutual friend Harry Strelec who took his own life as a result of his mental illness back in March 2019. The Second Wind runners are training for their return in 2021 with Dillon and Jayden Farrell, Ryan Clayton, Simon Kelada-Polupanov and others running and raising money once again. The boys hope to raise awareness and donations in honour of Harry and others struggling with mental illness So if you’re looking for a reason to run, then look into One in Five and help them find a cure for mental illness. To learn more about One in Five and/or run for One in Five, please email [email protected] or visit www.oneinfive.com.au To learn more about Second Wind visit https://www.facebook.com/secondwindrc/

17.01.2022 With Melbournians now limited to just 1hr of outside time a day it means that many training plans will have to change - what do you do instead of a long run? Here is some TERRIFIC ADVICE from one of our coaching partners Hanny Allston about how to thrive within the 1hr limit. Well worth a read...

17.01.2022 There is nothing like setting an objective as part of a group then working together and supporting each other to achieve your goals... and the Margaret River Ultra Marathon is the ideal goal for your running group. Get your group of 3 or more individual 80km runners together and enter by 8:00am AEST Monday 27 July to get yourself one of these awesome soft flasks. AND....if your group/club submits 8 entries (team or individual entries) you get the 9th entry free! Contact [email protected] to make arrangements. #margaretriverultra #ultrarunning #ultrarun Full details around group entries can be found here: http://ow.ly/FjKw50AAIUL

16.01.2022 We can race!!! We are super stoked to announce that the Surf Coast Century will go ahead on 5th 6th December YEW!! Premier Dan Andrews’s announcements earlier today confirming an easing of restrictions effective from 23rd November have basically given the event a big GREEN LIGHT TO GO AHEAD! (The only thing that could stop us is if a big outbreak occurs that postpones these changes but the way things are trending this is very very unlikely). We have approval (and massive... levels of excitement) from the Surf Coast Shire who have been very supportive of our efforts to conduct the event from the word go and we believe all other stakeholders will now confirm the ability to proceed. The event will be conducted with a revised format as outlined on the event website, with field limits and other restraints to ensure we minimise group gatherings to less than 50 people, but the ethos remains the same as always - to provide a rewarding run through a simply spectacular course surrounded only by wilderness, wildflowers and a handful of friendly volunteers. All current entrants are asked to follow the instruction e-mailed on 28th October to either confirm your entry or withdraw before 12:00pm Monday 9th Nov (tomorrow) so we know who’s in and can make space for the many that now want to race. Entries are still open for all races (100km solo, 50km solo and relay teams) but we are approaching the field limits in all races. Thank you for your continued belief in the race and the chance to achieve something great before 2020 is done. We are so excited!!! www.surfcoastcentury.com.au

15.01.2022 As ultra runners were all tight in the hips and have inhibited movement and flexibility so this program by our friend Marion McRae at Movement Solutions in Margaret River could surely help us all. Marion says: "If youre a pro or amateur runner, wanting to improve your running efficiency and find more speed for less effort, lower your risk of injury, or get off the running plateau youve landed on, then optimising your habitual movement patterns is a great place to sta...rt. We all have Habits of Movement which could be optimised. Powering up your Pelvis is a 90 mins LIVE workshop where participants can MOVE and Learn from the comfort of their own homes. Such a good opportunity, whilst in shut down, to improve their running. Taking place on 12th September via Zoom. Retail price is $99 but for RA followers with discount code: MRUltra2020 its reduced to $75. https://www.movement-solutions.physio//power-up-your-pelvi

14.01.2022 It seems we're not the only ones who are excited that the Surf Coast Century is going ahead on 5-6 December with ENTRIES FILLING FAST (especially solo 100km and 50km). Secure your spot and achieve something awesome in 2020 and enter now - or round up a bunch of mates and do a relay team for a bit more fun.

14.01.2022 Were not lost in the sand, were powering on with conviction! Despite two event changes made within the past week, we are staying strong! Check out our latest Ultra Running EDM here: https://tinyurl.com/UltraRunningEDM

14.01.2022 Share a training photo and WIN a $50 voucher to Bogong Equipment! With the Century less than 2 weeks ago runners are either training like mad to cram-it-in or starting to taper after many heavy months?! Either way share a photo from a recent training run (on the weekend / on the course / around home) and tell us how you're going and 2 luck people will win a $50 voucher at Bogong Equipment SCC partner and trail running equipment experts. Bogong Equipment

14.01.2022 What are you doing on Sunday? Its not too late to join us for Virtual Race 1 of the Trail Running Series presented by MINI How does it work?... Run your own course in your preferred location and connect with fellow trail runners via some simple technology. Race 1 gets underway at 9:00am AEST on Sunday, but you can see us on Zoom from 8:40am AEST. Well be checking in with runners from around Australia, and the globe...and our good friends from The HIIT Factory will take you through a pre-race warm to get you in the mood. Enter here: http://ow.ly/sbx950A5G5g #trailrunningseries #trailrun #trailruning

14.01.2022 Our free training run on Leg 2 of the Surf Coast Century course IS CONFIRMED TO GO AHEAD this Sunday 20 June. With restrictions eased and a good weather forecast for the weekend - why not head down the coast for a beautiful 28km run along the leg 2 course. All the details are on this Facebook Event page...

14.01.2022 Surf Coast Century trophies are ready for awarding! These are 100% original, hand-crafted pyramids made from recycled timber sourced locally. Their production has been a real family affair with Sam’s dad Jim Maffett (86yrs) doing the cutting + sanding, Mid-City Trophies the engraving and then Sam engaged his kids to varnish to finish them off! But like all ultramarathons - this event is about so much more than your results its about the journey to the start line, the place...s you’ve been, the people you’ve met and the satisfaction you found at the finish line. And in 2020 it is about not letting a global pandemic hold you down and stop you from achieving something great in 2020. So no matter what time / place / result you achieved or if you walk home with one of these trophies, we hope you enjoyed the experience we’re sure you’re stronger as a result of it all. #surfcoastcentury

13.01.2022 Our medical partners at Torquay Sports Medicine have prepared some great information to help runners preparefor and get through the Surf Coast Century with a range of videos and blogs linked below. They are based in Torquay offer $50 off your first treatment for any Surf Coast Century competitors now that’s not bad! The videos here cover: ... - Plantar fasciitis exercises - Runners knees diagnosis and tips - Introduction to Torquay Sports Medicine Centre And there is a handy blog on their page providing 5 ways to avoid getting a running injury. Read it here: https://bit.ly/3mbP7df

12.01.2022 Must read: Sean Purcell has overcome incredible odds to line up for the 50km Surf Coast Century in a couple of weeks. Sean was a fit 40 year old back in 2014 until he had a sudden cardiac arrest and was clinically dead for 45mins whilst onlookers did CPR to try and save him. Fast forward to 2020 and he’s lining up for his second 50km at this years race thanks to a lot of hard work, commitment and support from his cardiology team. This article in yesterday’s Geelong Advertis...er is a must-read and puts into perspective the delicate balance of life. We also recorded a podcast with Sean back in 2019 that tells more about his story. Sean is our Ultra Running Rookie for the year and is determined to run the 100km in 2021. Geelong Advertiser

12.01.2022 Relive the good-time-vibes with this 4min long-play highlight reel from the 2020 Margaret River Ultra Marathon on 17 October. We're still riding a high after such an epic weekend and hope you are too. Let the the good times roll on and on and on... Congratulations to all competitors. We can't wait to do it all again on 1st May, 2021.... Filmed and edited by Marco at https://mnfilm.info/

12.01.2022 Run Larapinta entries are now open. 4 days 4 stages in the heart of Australia. If you seek a truly incredible race experience to run through an astounding landscape, to experience the awe of the outback and get a sense of the heritage of this big brown land - and to share it with a great group of people from across the country - then this is THE RACE. It is absolute bucket list material. There are two event date options: 21 24 April (the rescheduled ‘2020 event’) and 26... 29 August 2021. Set a real milestone in your life and do something you’ll never ever forget SIGN UP NOW before both races fill up. www.RunLarapinta.com.au

12.01.2022 Introducing Bruce Walpole! We hope youre enjoying getting to know some of your fellow Margaret River Ultra Marathon competitors a little better through our profile series. This week in the spotlight were hearing from a past competitor - Bruce Walpole. Bruce completed Run Larapinta (short course) and the 50km race at the Surf Coast Century in 2018, then went on to run the Margaret River Ultra Marathon last year.... This year hes tackling 100km at the Surf Coast Century in December. Heres what Bruce had to say about his MRUM experience and our coaching partner Squadrun ? It was the next logical step for me after Run Larapinta (short course) and Surf Coast 50k in 2018. The distance I thought would be the challenge, little did I know about the SAND! , ? It was greatId been having a go at writing my own program but all of a sudden, clearly, I was dealing with coaches who knew their stuff! Having the ability to choose runs from the program and slot them into whatever my week was proved perfect for me. ? ? Training was spot on for the level I was at. I was pretty routine with my weekly/fortnightly updates back to the Squadrun coaches and there was always a response with advice and always positive reinforcement as to my progress. The training worked for me because I had a quality program/choice of runs and I still had to self discipline my training (no-one else can run the ultra for you) thats a fear of failure kicking in! The training definitely worked; after every training run I felt just that little closer to being prepared for Margaret River! ? I absolutely embraced the entire experience and thats why I loved it so much! I finished in a time that I was super proud of. The highlights would be: Sam, Kerry and Ali at the finish line (a lot of the elites were in bed by then lol). The start of the last stageheading out into the darkness along what I think was a cliff and the ocean crashing below. The atmosphere at the checkpoints (and my crew buddy!). The new friends I made. The SAND. My advice is do heaps of training in the hills, heaps of training in sand (if you can). On race day I needed a shoe gaiter to cover the toe box the fine sand gets in through the mesh and messes with your toes if it builds up in the shoe. I wore sock gaiters too.

11.01.2022 How to choose the right shoes? There are so many different types and styles of running shoe on the market these days that its hard to determine which is the most appropriate for the running you do ... until now. Here is an article that clearly explains the different features of a shoe and whats best for each style of running - from long distance to short, cushioning to heal drop. Prepared by La Sportiva (our footwear partner) this article provides some great information f...or all runners. https://mountainrunning.com.au/how-to-choose-a-trarunning-/

10.01.2022 If you are coming down to train on the Surf Coast Century course this weekend (or anytime) please keep clear of the Eumeralla Scout Camp private property area. A small section of the leg 2 course goes past some scout campsites and we ask runners to please avoid this section when training. Be aware of the ‘no entry’ signs set up in the area and then we’ll be fine to keep using it on race day only. Thanks

10.01.2022 Facebook LIVE Q&A with elite runners / coaches: David Eadie and Nikki Wynd. 8:00pm Thursday 20th. This is the second episode of our Facebook Live Q&A series called Ultra Experience athlete interviews presented by CLIF. Well chat to David and Nikki with the endeavour of learning from their considerable experience competing in events of all lengths across Australia and around the world. David Eadie, otherwise known as The Running Man, is an ambassador for the Surf Coast... Century and a major coaching partner for the event, but did you know hes run a 3:54 mile, raced for Olympic Games selection, has finished multiple Western States 100 milers and was Australian Ultra Runner of the year? Meanwhile Nikki is a former winner of the Badwater Ultra (The toughest race in the world) and multiple 24hr track national champion and all-round running guru. So tune in to this live discussion on our Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events Facebook page because there is no doubt that we can all learn a lot from these two! Its a bit like a podcast but you can ASK YOUR OWN QUESTIONS in real time, see whats happening and win some cool prizes from CLIF Bar! Tune in to the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Facebook page at 8:00pm Thursday 20th August for all the stories.

10.01.2022 Still need to book accommodation for the Surf Coast Century this weekend? - then give our partner Great Ocean Road Realestate a call to lock something in. They have a huge range of short term holiday rentals available all along the Surf Coast for all kids of budgets. They are great supporters of the event so even if you're sorted for this weekend, consider them next time your trip'n down the coast. https://www.greatoceanroadholidays.com.au/

09.01.2022 NT EVENT NEWS: The Northern Territory Government yesterday announced that the states borders will re-open on the 17th July. This is GREAT NEWS for our Redback MTB and Run Larapinta Stage Races and basically gives them the green light to proceed as planned. The NT already permit group gatherings of up to 500 but we are checking other requirements with authorities and will send confirmed event details to Run Larapinta entrants next week. We also believe the airlines will soon... announce additional flights to Alice Springs. So get ready to join us for a racing holiday in the sun in the heart of Australia! https://www.abc.net.au//nt-borders-to-open-amid-/12368238

09.01.2022 Good news today that we hope is a sign of more things to come: The NSW / VIC border will open on 23rd November! This means NSW runners hoping to compete in the Surf Coast Century will be able to get to the event and fill their dreams with a run along the Surf Coast. We're also really buoyed by the fact there has not been a COVID case here in Victoria for the last 5 days! Many are calling it 'Olympic Day' (5 x O is like the Olympic rings... get it...!?)... Surely it means restrictions will soon ease to allow the race to go ahead... Surely... https://www.nsw.gov.au/media/nsw-to-reopen-victorian-border

09.01.2022 TRAINING IS CHEATING! Or at least it is for Kris and John who will be joining us at The Margaret River Ultra Marathon on 17 October. We checked in with the guys to find out more about this team of 2 and learnt you should never underestimate the value of a servo sausage roll in your pre-race preparations! (pic is from the 2015 Waterous Trail on Foot 50 Miler, so maybe this lack of prep thing does work!?)... All the best guys, look forward to a beer and a yarn at Cheeky Monkey Brewery finish line! , ?! Were a brother in law team who are always looking for new challenges to do together, but between family and work, rarely have the time to prepare. When people ask what our training schedule is, weve always jokingly replied "training is cheating!" ... : Im the natural talent of this team! I hail from Carramar, Perth and work for the Government. Ive been running since I left home at 17 years old. : I have a delusional confidence in my ability to run forever, despite what my 44-year-old body tells me! I live in Kinross, Perth and am self employed. I did my 1st distance run when I was 15. ? : Im a creature of habit, every day without fail I eat porridge and honey. If Im feeling adventurous, Ill through some blueberries in! : I usually have a service station sausage roll & red bull. ?! : I run when I can, Ive gotta juggle work and 4 kids. So 3-4 runs is a good week! : Honestly, not a lot! The occasional run to & from my sons football training is about it at the moment! ? : Its gonna be a rough ride, to be honest Im dreading the day after. A cold beer waiting for me at the finish line would be a fine discovery. : A few stories to tell over a cold beer at the end.

08.01.2022 How good is Western Australia?! SO GOOD - they lead our return to events in 2020 with the Margaret River Ultra Marathon being our first race back post-COVID. We could not attend in person but recruited a team of WA event hotshots to do the physical stuff for us whilst we did the data from back here in Victoria (and the NT!). Because we weren’t there in person we especially LOVE looking at Marco’s incredible video from the race to see HOW DAMN GOOD it was! So much so that we ...thought it was worth re-sharing as part of our year end acknowledgements. Well done WA. The 2021 race will be held on 1st May over the same spectacular 80km course entries now open (300+ entered already!) www.MRUltramarathon.com.au

07.01.2022 TONIGHT: a reminder to tune in to our live chat with elite runners / coaches: David Eadie and Nikki Wynd tonight at 8:00pm. This is the second episode of our Facebook Live Q&A series called Ultra Experience athlete interviews presented by CLIF. Well chat to David and Nikki with the endeavour of learning from their considerable experience competing in events of all lengths across Australia and around the world. David Eadie, otherwise known as The Running Man, is an amb...assador for the Surf Coast Century and a major coaching partner for the event, but did you know hes run a 3:54 mile, raced for Olympic Games selection, has finished multiple Western States 100 milers and was Australian Ultra Runner of the year? Meanwhile Nikki is a former winner of the Badwater Ultra (The toughest race in the world) and multiple 24hr track national champion and all-round running guru. So tune in to this live discussion on our Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events Facebook page because there is no doubt that we can all learn a lot from these two! Its a bit like a podcast but you can ASK YOUR OWN QUESTIONS in real time, see whats happening and win some cool prizes from CLIF Bar! Tune in to the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Facebook page at 8:00pm Thursday 20th August for all the stories.

07.01.2022 Today is GLOBAL RUNNING DAY! Wednesday 3rd June Tell us how you celebrated - and one lucky runner will win a $100 discount off their next pair of shoes at Footpro https://globalrunningday.org/... Photo: Matt Hull Photography at Run Larapinta.

07.01.2022 Rapid Ascent regretfully advises that due to the current COVID-19 situation in Victoria / Australia, and recent announcements (https://ab.co/2Od9ZBK) made by the NT Chief Minister regarding borders, we have been forced to reschedule the 2020 Run Larapinta Stage Race that was planned for 26-29 August this year. The new date for the 2020 event will be 12 15 May 2021. 16 JUNE UPDATE: The rescheduled 2020 event date will now be 21-24 April at the request of NT Nat Parks an...d Wildlife Service. See comment below. We are absolutely devastated to make this change. We know everyone puts their heart and soul into this race as have we so it is with considerable frustration and disappointment that we are now forced to alter plans. We all held great hope for this event over the last 4 months and wanted to give competitors every opportunity to fulfill their dreams by joining us in the Red Center, but with border restrictions preventing Victorians, Western Australians, international runners (and the Rapid Ascent team) from entering the NT, as well as the heightened risks of spreading of COVID-19 means an event in 2020 is no longer possible. All entrants have been sent an e-mail outlining your entry options. Please contact Rapid Ascent via [email protected] to confirm your plans. We know this is a challenging time, with both runners and Rapid Ascent staff putting in considerable hard work towards this event. We are incredibly deflated by this outcome but know it is the right decision for the health and safety of our community, and it gives us two things to look forward to in 2021 because well conduct the rescheduled 2020 Run Larapinta on 12 15 May 2021 and the 2021 Run Larapinta on 26 29 August 2021. Sam, John, Annie and Adele - your Rapid Ascent team.

07.01.2022 Tailwind on course. We are very happy to continue our long running relationship with Tailwind Nutrition Australia and can report that their powdered endurance fuel will be available at all the Surf Coast Century check points. Providing ‘Everything you need, calories and electrolytes, in one simple, powerful drink’ their product helps takes the confusion out of race nutrition. Study up on how it works on their website beforehand. ... https://www.tailwindnutrition.com.au/ Tailwind Nutrition

07.01.2022 FREE training runs on the Margaret River Ultra course on 12-13 September: Our friends at the Margaret River Trail Running Club are hosting two FREE training runs along sections of the MR Ultra course and we encourage anyone who can get there to join them for some perfect training sessions, 5 weeks before race day. Open to all runners to attend, these sessions provide a terrific opportunity to see parts of the course and meet others training for the event in a friendly, non-c...ompetitive environment. All details and discussions are on this event page:

07.01.2022 Over the coming weeks we will be profiling some of the legendary competitors joining us at the Margaret River Ultra Marathon. Many of you have fascinating stories to tell, so why not share the inspiration!? First off the block is Paul Laver, who will be competing in a team of 5, Bubbly Quintuply. Paul raced semi-professionally as a triathlete in his twenties, has won the Rottnest channel swim and was a Rio Olympics hopeful (though he just missed out on selection!). These da...Continue reading

06.01.2022 Surf Coast Century COVID-19 update: We are acutely aware of the coronavirus situation in Victoria and its potential impact to the Surf Coast Century and event participants. We are currently monitoring the situation and intend to wait for the next Victorian Government announcement about restrictions (proposed for 12th July) before making any further assessment on the 2020 Surf Coast Century event. We will communicate our intentions on ~13th July once this update has been received. Stay active stay safe!

06.01.2022 We think 2020 has been much like an ultra marathon its been a year when we’ve had to overcome challenge after challenge whilst soldiering on as strongly as possible, the end often being far from sight. But we DID IT. We made it to the finish line and (at the moment) are basking in the post race joy of satisfaction (and a seemingly COVID free population?). Maybe it is no coincidence that despite the challenges we’ve managed to conduct two ultra marathons this year the Marg...aret River Ultra in October and the Surf Coast Century in December. Neither of them were on their original date but both provided supreme journeys through magnificent wilderness areas. If you were a competitor in either event then we wanted to say THANK YOU for sticking with us. Thank you for entrusting us with your racing goals and well done on maintaining your training despite the distractions. We think the SC Century was one of the most meaningful races we’ve conducted over the 16 years we’re been in business as it allowed all of us to feel ‘normal’, to reunite on the trails and achieve something awesome in 2020. As for our Run Larapinta brethren we were so disappointed we could not go ahead in 2020 as we know how much this race means to you (and us) BUT we’ve got two opportunities to experience the awe inspiring red centre together in 2021. Entries are still open to both April and August events if you want to join us. We hope you’ve achieved some personal finish lines in 2020 and encourage you to set your sights high and join us at some of our finish lines in 2021. Have a great summer. Run Larapinta Stage Race, 21 24 April 2021 Margaret River Ultra Marathon, 1 May 2021 Run Larapinta Stage Race, 26 29 August 2021 Surf Coast Century, 11 September 2021 + (The Trail Running Series, 5 venues near Melbourne, Victoria 2021 Dates COMING SOON)

06.01.2022 The 2020 Surf Coast Century was one of our most meaningful races and so it gives us plenty of smiles to look back at some race photos to relive the success. Well done to all participants. Make it your next big goal on 11 September 2021. www.SurfCoastCentury.com.au

06.01.2022 Through lifes ups and downs, running is the friend that travels with us. Ali Pottinger, SQAUDRUN SQUADRUN are our principle coaching partner for the 2020 Margaret River Ultra Marathon. SQUADRUN is the largest coach led running community in the South Pacific region and are the chosen training partner for the 3 largest trail races in the region, so with their track record and experience we highly recommend their programs and their enthusiastic running community. Ali from... Squadrun (NZ based) has a message for Margaret River Ultra Marathon runners... https://margaretriver.rapidascent.com.au/event-/news-item/ Thanks so much for the wise words, Ali and thanks to Squadrun for supporting the 2020 Margaret River Ultra! https://squad.run/ #margaretriverultra

05.01.2022 New socks are THE BEST - especially when they are FREE as part of your entry!! All Surf Coast Century solo and team runners get a free pair of custom Steigen socks at registration - how good is that! Made from a lightweight fabric for fast moisture transfer, superb breathability, airflow mesh, flat seams + plenty more features these Steigen socks will instantly become your running favourites!... ENTER NOW - Team entries and limited solo entries still available. @steigen

05.01.2022 Whos ready to light their flame again and lock in an ultra-marathon goal? Read our latest newsletter for updates on our Surf Coast Century and Margaret River Ultra Marathon... https://mailchi.mp/rapid/lock-in-a-post-covid-running-goal

04.01.2022 Inspiring Competitor Profile! This week in our series of Margaret River Ultra Marathon competitor profiles, were sharing a truly inspirational story from Sheree. Sheree, thank you so much for sharing your story and congratulations on your amazing turn-around. Cant wait to see you cross that finish line at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery. Heres Sherees story... . .... . . 10 . , . , , . . 5 . 36 . , . ( ) . - ! 5 23 24 . . 5 ! . .

04.01.2022 Join us TONIGHT as we chat live with Kellie Emmerson and Majel Backhausen about their running careers. Between the two of them they have raced in 20+ countries, stood on the top and the bottom of podiums, rubbed shoulders with the best on trails and collected an incredible amount of ultra experience. Well tap into that experience with this live chat on the Rapid Ascent Ultra Running Events facebook page tonight, Tuesday 9th June at 8:15pm. ... CLIF Bar have provided some prize packs for the audience and well try and learn as much as we can from these running royalty. Majell Backhausen Kellie Emmerson CLIF Bar

04.01.2022 We have good news The 2020 Run Larapinta Stage Race is going ahead as planned on 26 29 August. We cant wait to share this spectacular and life-changing trail running experience with you! There are still a handful of entries available, so jump in quick if you want to join us at this truly unique and rewarding event.... www.runlarapinta.com.au #runlarapinta #ultrarunning #ultrarun

03.01.2022 Hey guys! How's your Surf Coast Century training going? If you are looking for some great race prep...why not sign up for the Brooks Surf Coast Trail Marathon THIS WEEKEND!? The route snakes from Australia’s Mecca of surfing, Torquay, to the beachfront Fairhaven Surf Lifesaving Club on Victoria’s famed Surf Coast, only an hour south west of Melbourne. You can do a full marathon, half, or buddy up in a team of 2.... https://www.surfcoasttrailmarathon.com/

03.01.2022 Anglesea and the Surf Coast is a trail running paradise with endless tracks and trails through the world renowned heathland that are free and open to train on in the lead up to the Surf Coast Century. To help new visitors we’ve prepared maps identifying 7 different training run loops along the race course so you can self guide yourself when visiting the area. Training loops vary between 11km and 21km and the maps carry some interesting historical and environmental informatio...n about the area you are running through. FOR EXAMPLE: did you know that the Anglesea Heath is the richest and most diverse vegetation community in Victoria, hosting one quarter of Victoria’s plant species including more than 80 orchids! The maps, as well as a downloadable GPS file of the whole course is all available on Surf Coast Century website: https://surfcoastcentury.rapidascent.com.au//training-and/

03.01.2022 We can’t do a flash back to the 2020 Run Larapinta because it didn’t happen but we can feast our eyes on photos from 2015 2019 when it did. Matt Hull is our event photographer and he goes deep into the course each day to capture runners hard at it and then we give all shots to runners afterwards as part of their entry. I’ll let his photos and the arid Red Centre landscapes - do the talking for just how magnificent this event is. (It’s always our staff favourite).... Join us for one of two races in 2021 on: > Run Larapinta Stage Race, 21 24 April (the postponed ‘2020’ event) > Run Larapinta Stage Race, 26 29 August Entries open at www.RunLarapinta.com.au

01.01.2022 "How to Develop Mental Toughness" - this is a terrific article by The Growth Equation we read recently that we had to share. With some tips from the greatest, grittiest marathoner of all time Eliud Kipchoge there are some nuggets in here that can help us all. Check it out and tell us what resonates with you...

01.01.2022 Hi All, Re: Run Larapinta 2020 We are aware of the unfolding situation with the NT border closing to Victorian residents indefinitely. We are currently reviewing possible options for the Run Larapinta race and will communicate directly with entrants regarding entry options by the end of this week. Your patience is greatly appreciated during these challenging times. More from us soon!