One of Australia’s most in-demand ultra races, the Margaret River Ultra Marathon will take place next weekend on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th May in south-west Western Australia with a capacity field of 1,900 participants.
The highly sought-after event will feature its largest ever field of solo competitors, with 400 runners taking on the 80km ultra marathon. They’ll be joined by 1,100 participants who make up the 250 relay teams of 2 to 5 members sharing the challenge of the 80km course.
In addition to the premier ultra race, a further 400 solo runners will line up for the 42km trail marathon on Sunday.
Organisers Rapid Ascent are excited for the eighth annual event;
“This year we’ve seen a clear surge in demand for solo spots, and we’re excited to see so many athletes taking on the challenge,” said Event Director Sam Maffett. “There’s something special about the running community that feels like one big happy family!”
The event has earned a solid reputation as one of Australia’s premier point-to-point ultra races, consistently attracting a capacity field.
Competitors will be lead on a magnificent trail running journey in the 80km point-to-point ultra course, starting at Hamelin Bay and heading north along the Cape-to-Cape coastline, passing through the breathtaking scenery of Boranup, Redgate and Gracetown. Runners then head inland to the finish line at Howard Park Winery in Wilyabrup.
The 42km trail marathon (first held in 2024) will see participants starting at Yallingup Beach and heading south along the Cape to Cape track to the same finish line at Howard Park Winery on the Sunday.
The unique landscape will keep runners buzzing from start to finish, as the courses wind their way through tall karri tree forests, coastal trails, beaches and bluffs with sweeping views across the magical Margaret River region.
Every competitor seems to elude enthusiasm for the course and event overall, many returning year after year. Lining up for her third 80km solo run is Louise Evans from Perth.
“This was the best event I have ever ran in; I loved every km and looking forward to it all again on Saturday!”
Local Margaret River runner Mandy Carey will be participating in her 7th Margaret River Ultra Marathon as part of team ‘Margie’s Majesties’ with local trail running friends;
“When you live in paradise, Margaret River, with the trails right on your doorstep why wouldn’t you want to get out amongst it,” exclaims Carey. “The appeal of running on the Coast to Coast track was strong and being able to train on the course has seen us all have some of our favourite times running together.”
Competitors will enjoy a celebratory beverage at the official event venue, Howard Park Wines, following their race. A 2km Kids Run will also be held in the morning of Sunday 11th May just prior to official presentations in the same location.
Part of the event’s allure is providing an opportunity for runners to combine their love of running with a visit to one of Australia’s most spectacular regions. The course is accessible for spectators and a stone’s throw from world class wineries, cafes and surf beaches.
Local media and south-west locals are invited to come down for a look and cheer on the competitors.
Further event information can be found on the Margaret River Ultra Marathon website www.MRUltramarathon.com.au or www.facebook.com/RapidAscentUltraRunningEvents
