Entries have opened to the fifth edition of the Margaret River Ultra Marathon to be held on 7 May 2022 in south-west, Western Australia with the event expected to sell out for the second year in a row.

The popularity of the 80km point to point course has doubled since it first appeared on the calendar in 2018 with just 700 participants, cementing its place as one of the most popular ultra marathons on the Australian running calendar.

Claire O’Brien-Smith wins the Margaret River Ultra women’s race

Organisers Rapid Ascent have a self-imposed entry limit of 1,500 to preserve the competitor experience for those running on the day and recommend interested runners enter early to avoid missing out.

“After witnessing a huge increase in entry numbers over the past four years, we predict the same trend to continue for individuals and relay teams,” said Sam Maffett, General Manager of organisers Rapid Ascent.

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“Sure, the vibe of a big field adds energy to us all, but trail running is also about getting away from people and enjoying the wilderness… so bigger is not always better.” Maffett added.

The spectacular 80km course offers magnificent trail running for competitors as they make their way from Hamelin Bay to Wilyabrup on the breathtaking Cape to Cape coastline.

The unique landscape keeps runners buzzing from start to finish, as the course winds its way through tall karri tree forests, coastal trails, beaches and bluffs with sweeping views across the magical Margaret River region.

Photo by Matt Hull

Competitors can tackle the course as a solo runner, or as part of a relay team of 2 to 5 members covering 10-20km each.

“This is what makes ultra running so good – no matter if you’re part of a team, an accomplished ultra runner or first timer, the event offers everyone a chance to be part of an incredible experience,” said Maffett. “The people, the places, the faces, the stories, the flowing celebratory beverages… it truly was an exceptional event and we can’t wait to host the 2022 edition!”

Buy the ‘Pre Forever’ shirt from the Runner’s Tribe shop

 

Competitors will finish with a celebratory beverage at the Cheeky Monkey Brewery, the official event venue.

These Margaret River Ultra Marathon is organised by Rapid Ascent—one of Australia’s premier off-road events management company—manager of the Eagle Bay Epic Adventure Race and X-Adventure Dunsborough also conducted in Western Australia—among others.

For more information on the Margaret River Ultra Marathon head to www.MRUltramarathon.com.au or join the conversation at www.facebook.com/RapidAscentUltraRunningEvents

EVENT DETAILS:
When: 7th May 2022
Where: Margaret River, South-West Western Australia
What:  An 80-kilometre ultra-marathon with two options:

  • Solo 80km
  • Relay team of 2-5 runners doing one (or more) legs each
Margaret River Ultra

Leg breakdown:

  • Leg 1: 11.5km Hamelin Bay to Boranup Campsite
  • Leg 2: 18km Boranup Campsite to Contos Campground. Total: 28.5km
  • Leg 3: 19.5km Contos Campground to Riflebutts Reserve, Total: 48km
  • Leg 4: 18.5km Riflebutts Reserve to Gracetown. Total: 66.5km
  • Leg 5: 12.5km Gracetown to Cheeky Monkey Brewery and Cidery. Total: 80km

EVENT WEBSITE:
www.MRUltramarathon.com.au