September 26, 2024
Belief, courage and records
The 13th edition of the Surf Coast Century ultra trail marathon held on Saturday, 21st September 2024, was the events largest field to date with over 1,500 runners participating.
“Believe in yourself is the biggest gift you can give yourself. I had my back the whole time,” – Miah Noble, 50km ultra trail marathon female winner.
No truer words were spoken at the Surf Coast Century finish line as competitors showed belief, courage, determination and resilience from sunup to midnight. Half the field took on either the 100km or 50km courses as solo runners; whilst the remaining competitors participated in a relay team of two, three, or four runners covering approximately 25km each of the 100km course.
Putting in a World-class performance in the 100km ultra marathon that saw an 8-year record fall was Holly Ranson from Queensland in 9 hours and 3 minutes; with Nigel Hill (VIC) showing true grit to clock an impressive 8 hours, 49 minutes and 53 seconds in the men’s field.
Ranson not only set a course record as first female in the 100km race, but was second overall. “I was feeling really good today,” said Ranson. “It’s my first time racing in Victoria so I knew it would be tough, but I also knew what I was aiming for.”
“The course was so beautiful and stunning with so many different types of terrain!” continued Ranson. “The sand, mud, hills, downhills, ocean views, and the forest sections with all the ferns; it’s all so incredible!”
Ranson finished ahead of notable Australian ultra runner Nicole Paton (10:06:00) who recently returned from World Sky Running Championships in Spain. Clare Palmer was third in 10:20:04.
With a flying female hot on his heals, Hill also achieved what he set out to do, despite not having raced the Century before either;
“I feel I tapered to perfection today,” said Hill “I set out to do 9 hours so to go under by 10 minutes is a pretty good result for myself,” said Hill.
“It’s funny because I have been avoiding this event like the plague... I really hate sand! But I entered for something different this year… and I actually had a really good experience out there,” said Hill.
Read full Surf Coast Century wrap story.
The Surf Coast Shire continues to support this iconic event, contributing to its ongoing success and appeal.
The 2025 edition of the event is set for Saturday 13 September – entries to open early next year. More event information here.
