Belief, courage and records at the Surf Coast Century

22 September 2024 The Long Run

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.

Coming in second was a humble yet courageous Thomas Dade in 9:05:34; and just behind in third place was Ally Willcox in 9:09:35.

With the growth in numbers particularly for individual runners, the event has once again solidified its status as a premier ultra trail marathon in Australia. And this year, the event hosted the 2024 Australian Ultra Runners Association (AURA) Long Course Trail National Championships, further elevating its profile.

In the 50km ultra event, Matthew Whitaker and Miah Noble both demonstrated strong performances crossing the finish line in 3:28:16 and 3:53:35, respectively.

As quoted earlier by an emotional Noble, her impressive race will be one to remember for years to come;

“Before the race I had a goal, but I wouldn’t say it out loud – my partner kept saying the goal, but I wouldn’t because I was too scared I wouldn’t get it. But I got it! So that’s pretty cool!” exclaimed Noble.

“I’ve gone through a massive journey to get here, battling with an eating disorder. But I’m just really proud. And all the other runners out on course were so amazing and supportive – cheering me on – it was a beautiful, surreal experience,” continued Noble.

Kate Crombie was second, and Shannessy Adams was third the women’s field; whilst Joshua Lynott and Owen Williams rounded out the male podium.

In addition to the impressive feats of solo runners was the $2,000 cash up for grabs to the first and fastest relay team to break the 7-hour barrier. With tough course conditions the cash remains unclaimed to this day. Team “Buster Burchell” clocked a time of 07:43:41 with team members Laura Burchell, Will Newton, Andrew Burchell and Kieran Moore.

The course record remains with last years contenders Team Weapons-A in 07:00:46!

Held in Anglesea along the Great Ocean Road, the Surf Coast Century is celebrated for not only its’ prominent status, but for showcasing the region’s stunning natural beauty and fostering a spirit of perseverance and camaraderie among participants.

Event organisers Rapid Ascent reflected on the event’s all rounded success;

“Seeing competitors and supporters sharing in this unforgettable journey together is simply awe-inspiring,” said Sam Maffett, General Manager at Rapid Ascent. “The courses’ backdrop in such a beautiful part of Australia really does add to this and so much more as memories were made, goals achieved, and celebrations being a true highlight for all our competitors and supporters!”

The figure-8 course design course took 100km competitors from Anglesea to Torquay along the beach, returning along the cliff top tracks and hinterland trails to Moggs Creek and Aireys Inlet; before heading back to Anglesea on the Surf Coast Walk trail, via Point Roadknight. Whilst the revamped 50km course covered the first half of the 100km route taking in more of the coastal views.

Competitors continued to cross the finish line late into the evening, with the final 100km solo competitor finishing just past midnight.

“Congratulations to every runner (and supporter) who spent hour upon hour battling the elements. And thanks for doing it with such gratitude and positivity – it’s honestly a privilege to share with you all!” said Maffett.

Sunday morning’s festivities included the MELI Kids Run and Boat Ramp Battle, followed by official presentations at the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club. Thomas Dade was awarded the coveted concrete shoe trophy for a second year running.

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.

www.SurfCoastCentury.com.au

RESULTS 2024

100KM OVERALL MALE