August 2, 2021
Past champs and interstate rivals
THE 10th edition of the Surf Coast Century is cementing its reputation as one of Australia’s must-do ultra trail marathons, attracting a number of past winners from ultra running events across the country.
To be held on September 11 between Anglesea and Torquay, the event will see previous winners Kellie Angel (nee Emmerson), Ash Watson, Ross Hopkins, David Eadie and Sarah Hedger line up on the 100km start line.
The fast five (all from Victoria) will be up against a formidable trio from Western Australia – Justin Scarvaci, Claire O’Brien-Smith and Meghann Coffey, all of whom have won the Margaret River Ultra Marathon (MRUltra), which is also organised by Rapid Ascent.
The WA trio of Scarvaci, O’Brien-Smith and Coffey were lured by the race’s spectacular course, prestigious reputation and the chance to have a hit-out against many of Victoria’s best ultra runners.
"I want to push the pace in Victoria,” 2019 and 2020 MRUltra male winner Scarvaci said.
2020 MRUltra female winner O’Brien-Smith said she’s well prepared for the 100km.
"I’m looking forward to more kilometres at the Century and feel I’ll be well prepared for the course – I’m including some sand running, hills, intervals and getting out on the trails as much as possible."
The Surf Coast Century and Margaret River Ultra Marathon have a brother/sister relationship, where the winners of one event are invited to race in the other.
This year will be the first time the Century will feature a stacked field of Victorian winners racing against WA winners.
Surf Coast Century event information here.
Surf Coast Times story here.
